Kungfu Reyes glad to see Jaja Santiago closer to Olympic dream

Chery Tiggo coach Kungfu Reyes.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Chery Tiggo coach KungFu Reyes was happy for Jaja Santiago, who now goes by Sachi Minowa, for obtaining her Japanese citizenship.

Santiago announced her latest life achievement on Saturday moments before Chery Tiggo’s 25-18, 25-18, 25-19 win over ZUS Coffee at Mall of Asia Arena.

“Ito na yung dream niya. Kaunti pa, mas ma-fulfill niya yung dream niya to join the Olympics, yun naman ang target that’s why nag-migrate siya sa Japan. I think yun ang biggest dream niya,” Reyes, who also coached Santiago in high school at University of Santo Tomas, told reporters shortly after learning his former player’s citizenship status.

READ: Jaja Santiago now a Japanese citizen

“I’m happy for her na nakuha niya yung isa sa mga talagang pangarap niya. Hindi na lang siya pangarap, andiyan na.”

Reyes is rooting for Santiago to achieve her ultimate dream: to play in the Olympics with the Japanese national squad.

The 28-year-old Santiago is now eligible to play for Japan’s national team.

READ: PVL: Chery Tiggo still has a lot to adjust, says coach

The 6-foot-5 middle blocker of JT Marvelous recently trained with the Japanese national pool after an impressive 2023-23 V.League season.

Her next chance to play for the Japanese squad will be in the Volleyball Nations League followed by the Asian Games 2026 and the Los Angeles Olympics 2028.