Creamline embarks on new PVL conference without Risa Sato

Veteran middle blocker Risa Sato has officially ended her tenure with Creamline Cool Smashers. 

After lending her services to the club for six years, Sato has requested to be released from her contract which is set to expire by the end of the year.

Creamline confirmed the Filipino-Japanese player’s departure on a social media post on Friday, November 8.

“Creamline would like to inform our fans that Risa Sato has requested to be released from her contract, which is set to expire at the end of December 2024. This request for early termination though will still be subject to the conditions outlined in her existing contract,” the Cool Smashers’ statement read.

The club said that it will follow the terms of her current contract and acknowledged her request for an early termination, adding that the decision would adhere to the conditions of her current contract. 

"In recognition of her many years of dedicated service to the team, we have extended our understanding and utmost consideration regarding her request, granting her certain accommodations to support her as an athlete while respecting the terms of the contract," Creamline said. 

The 30-year-old middle blocker has been an essential part of the squad since joining Creamline in 2018 and contributing to several PVL titles, including the historic Grand Slam last season. 

Following Sato’s exit, questions have now been raised regarding Creamline’s strategy for the forthcoming season of PVL which is slated Saturday, November 9.