Exiting Akari mentor Taka Minowa. PVL Media Bureau/file
MANILA, Philippines – Japanese tactician Taka Minowa bid farewell to the Akari Chargers on Saturday evening, concluding a PVL run on a high with back-to-back podium finishes.
In an emotional post on Facebook, the foreign coach reflected on the journey he had with the Chargers.
The 33-year-old Minowa joined the PVL club nearly two years ago. From a cellar-dwelling team, he helped Akari become competitive.
"One year ago, I received an offer from team management, who told me, 'We have a lineup that can become a champion team,'" said Minowa.
"This was coming from a team that, since its founding, had never once finished in the top 6. That alone gives you an idea of how challenging this journey was going to be. At times, the high expectations placed on the team turned into pressure — but for me, that pressure gave me purpose and deep motivation," he added.
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Minowa said he believed in the progress they had.
"We chose not to chase results, but to focus on daily growth. We believed in the process and that belief kept us moving forward, day by day, challenge by challenge. It was never easy, but every tough day made this journey even more meaningful and fulfilling," he shared.
The exiting Akari maestro took time to thank the coaching staff, players, their social media team, and the league itself.
Before leaving, Minowa has led Akari to a silver medal finish in the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference and a bronze medal in the last 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference.
Minowa believes "foundation has been laid" for Akari to reach greater heights.
"Even the most successful team in the PVL started with back-to-back podium finishes before finally becoming champions and that’s exactly where this team now stands. The foundation has been laid. The belief is real. And the future is bright. Go for G old!" said Jaja Santiago (Sachi Minowa)'s husband.
"It was an honor to work in my wife’s home country."
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