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ZUS Coffee’s sensational import Anna DeBeer has more reason to be fired up for their next games.
Throughout her volleyball career in the United States, Anna DeBeer could always count on her mom, Sara, to be cheering her on from the sidelines.
Now that Anna has begun her first overseas stint in the Philippines, that support hasn’t wavered one bit, with Sara flying all the way from Louisville, Kentucky, to catch her daughter in action with the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference.
Sara’s support was on full display last Thursday as ZUS Coffee took on defending champions Creamline Cool Smashers at the Playtime FilOil Centre in San Juan. Still fighting the effects of jetlag, Sara made sure to be there as Anna shone in the Thunderbelles’ 24-26, 25-17, 25-20, 25-22 over the 10-time PVL champions.
“Well, she knew I was coming, so it was about bringing a few refreshments and a little bit of USA for her in the Philippines midway through this trip before she goes home. But more importantly, it’s about sharing this experience with her and the team,” Sara who arrived in Manila last Wednesday, told reporters.
Inspired by her mom’s presence, Anna poured in 37 huge points along with 15 receptions in the statement victory as ZUS Coffee improved to a 3-0 record in Pool B.
“My mom is the best! She travels a lot and always comes out to support me in all my games,” Anna said with a bright smile in the post-game press conference.
“So to have her here and see a few games, it’s going to be nice for the next few weeks! It’s exciting and just to have her here feels like a little piece of home away from home.”
As a constant presence in her daughter’s volleyball journey, Sara knows that Anna is having the time of her life in the Philippines. Apart from growing outside of her comfort zone, Sara knows that ZUS Coffee has given Anna a home away from home here in Manila.
“This was just something that she wanted to do and experience — life outside the United States and playing internationally and I’m really proud of her to take up this venture and learn a lot, practice, play with a new team and it’s been a great experience,” Sara said.
“I’m just so excited, this team is so fun to watch; they play well together, just great hustle and great defense. I appreciate the team effort, and I know that Anna loves playing with them. It’s a new team and it’s fun.”
As Sara will be in town for the next few weeks, it wouldn’t be a surprise if Anna follows up her 37-piece with another stellar outing against the Petro Gazz Angels this October 28, and the Akari Chargers this November 4.
“I already love the atmosphere of the arenas that we’re playing in! You guys are wonderful and it just makes everything so exciting.”
Images courtesy of the Premier Volleyball League.