In the world of sports, athletes are often revered for their physical abilities, mental toughness, and their ability to perform under pressure. But what happens when their bodies fail them, and they are hit with a wave of cramps that threaten to derail their performance?
This was the situation that Petro Gazz's Jonah Sabete found herself in during Game One of the 2023 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference semifinals. Along with two of her teammates, Sabete battled through cramps in the fourth set of the match against PLDT.
However, instead of letting the cramps get the best of her, Sabete powered through and delivered a performance that helped her team secure a crucial victory.
Sabete's efforts were instrumental in the Angels' 22-25, 25-19, 25-21, 25-18 win over PLDT. The 29-year-old outside hitter from Negros Occidental finished with a team-high 18 points on 14 attacks, three kill blocks, and an ace. But it was her performance in the fourth set that truly stood out.
With her team trailing 15-13, Sabete scored six crucial points in a 12-3 run that completely fended off the High-Speed Hitters. It was a testament to Sabete's mental and physical toughness, as well as her commitment to her team's success.
Speaking after the game, Sabete revealed that the team's eagerness to win and return to the finals helped them push through the cramps and emerge victorious.
"Our strong desire to become champions is what we are really holding on to. It is the desire of each one of us to make it to the finals," she said.
However, despite her impressive performance, Sabete remained humble and focused on improving her game. She acknowledged that she still has room for improvement and vowed to be more consistent with her timings moving forward.
"Maybe that's really what I need to work on. Of course, my teammates and coaches told me that when you're in front, you really need to work hard. So that's my mindset, timing, and work," she said.
