Gia Day and the Petro Gazz Angels in the AVC Champions League. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
SCHEDULE: Petro Gazz, Creamline, PLDT at 2025 AVC Champions League
MANILA, Philippines — Gia Day and Brooke Van Sickle found their rhythm just in time to power Petro Gazz into the quarterfinals of the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Champions League.
A day after a four-set loss to Taipower, Day erupted for 18 points to lead Petro Gazz past Hip Hing of Hong Kong, 25-8, 25-12, 25-12, on Tuesday at Philsports Arena. The win completed the quarterfinal cast.
The American outside spiker credited her teammates and the team culture for helping her play freely.
READ: Myla Pablo looks to continue resurgence for Petro Gazz in AVC
“I’m so thankful to each and every one. They helped me a lot, enjoying this with them, being in the moment, seeing like what Brooke (Van Sickle) said, great volleyball around me,” said Day. “There are little things.. And throughout life you’ll always have expectations as a mom, as a boss, as a worker, but you just have to be in the moment and enjoy the little things. So I think that’s the secret.”
Despite the win, Day wasn’t fully satisfied, knowing tougher tests lie ahead—including a knockout quarterfinal against Baic Motor of China on Thursday.
“I’m a little disappointed with myself today. I did some messy things that I can clean up,” she admitted. “I’m always analyzing each day and expecting the most out of myself. But I appreciate my team. I think we really bonded last night over our loss and made the most of it. We were all really motivated to just enjoy a win together.”
READ: AVC: Gia Day in high spirits despite Petro Gazz loss
Two-time PVL MVP Van Sickle, who emphasized the importance of playing with joy, praised the team’s mindset heading into the must-win match.
“We felt more comfortable, grooving better. After last night’s loss, we made sure we were collectively together moving forward,” said Van Sickle, who chipped in nine points. “This morning we said, ‘It doesn’t matter what the result is, let’s just have fun.’ Because this is supposed to be enjoyable.”
She added, “We got a much better result today. I’m very happy with the win, and our energy was much, much better.”
Van Sickle also commended the level of play in the tournament.
“It’s awesome to be here. All the teams are pushing themselves and just playing good volleyball. I just wish the best for everyone—stay healthy and keep competing.”
Looking ahead, Day hopes to elevate her overall performance.
Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.
“I think I can pass a little better so we can run our offense more,” she said. “And just staying confident—sometimes I’m hard on myself, so I’ll try to accept the positivity from my team and not get so down.”
