Creamline's Risa Sato. PVL Media Bureau/file
MANILA, Philippines -- Risa Sato has parted ways with the Creamline Cool Smashers, the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) club announced Friday in a social media post.
The announcement was made a day before the start of the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
"Our hearts go with Risa Sato as she begins her new adventure. We are grateful for the incredible moments we’ve shared together," the team said. "We send our love and good vibes to you, Sato-san. Best of luck!"
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The 30-year-old Sato requested for an early release from her contract, which was set to expire by the end of this year.
In the team statement, Creamline acknowledged Sato's contributions to the team and said it has granted "certain accommodations," referring to her request to "support her as an athlete while respecting the terms of the contract."
Sato joined the Cool Smashers in 2018, helping the eventual winningest team of the PVL become champions in the Reinforced and Open Conferences that year.
The 5-foot-9 middle blocker will be leaving after six years and 10 PVL titles with the Cool Smashers.