PVL: Minowa draws extra inspiration with wife Jaja Santiago watching

Akari Chargers coach Taka Minowa.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Akari coach Taka Minowa drew added inspiration to keep the Chargers’ best start going in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) with his wife and Japan V.League star Jaja Santiago supporting him on Thursday.

With the former PVL MVP Santiago in attendance, Minowa steered Akari to its fourth straight win in the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference on Thursday evening at Philsports Arena.

Akari continued to sizzle in the midseason tournament as it remained unbeaten in Pool B, sweeping ZUS Coffee, 25-18, 25-15, 25-23, to clinch a spot in Pool D in the second round.

READ: PVL: Akari racks up 4th straight win with rout of ZUS Coffee

The volleyball couple, who met in Japan, also supported Santiago’s sister Dindin Manabat when Choco Mucho lost to Capital1 in Marina Tushova’s record-setting 45 points.

“Actually, good inspiration because we came here together and then watched the Choco Mucho against Capital1. Also Dindin was there so like I can feel [that my] family is here,” said the Japanese coach. “If Jaja is not here sometimes, I feel like we are [not complete] but for now it’s totally different. I’m more comfortable staying here.”

Minowa shared that Santiago, for sure, will give him tips and share her insights about the game.

Minowa and Santiago have been supportive of each other with the latter continuously shining in the V.League in her seventh year, marking another historic season with her new team, JT Marvelous early this year.

READ: Akari import Oly Okaro’s offensive exploits lighting up PVL

More than being inspired by his wife, Minowa lauded the Chargers, led by import Oly Okaro and newcomers from Nxled Ivy Lacsina, Kamille Cal, Cams Victoria, and Dani Ravena, for their sensational start. 

“About my Nxled players who came to Akari, each conference I can see their improvement. Especially setter and libero, Dani and Cal. Since we met last year in October and then compared to now [they] really improved a lot and then I can see more potential. There’s a beginning, there’s a process. I hope she [Cal] also becomes one of the best setters in the Philippines,” he said.

Minowa urges his players to keep the fire burning until the end of the conference as the quarterfinals will hold a knockout format regardless of their group-stage finish. Akari seeks to sweep Pool B against fellow unbeaten team Cignal on Tuesday next week.