Taka Minowa is fully supporting his wife, Jaja Santiago—also known by her acquired Japanese name Sachi Minowa—as she pursues her Olympic dream following her successful naturalization in Japan.
Santiago, one of the best volleyball players the Philippines has produced, announced three days ago that she has finally obtained her Japanese passport, bringing her one step closer to realizing her dream of playing for the Japan national team.
“Actually, that’s a family dream. Before, we already promised that if ever Jaja wants to undergo naturalization, I’ll just support her,” said Minowa after Akari completed its sweep of the 2024 Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference on Tuesday at the expense of Farm Fresh.
Minowa revealed that he made the decision to accept coaching positions only in Asia to ensure he could be nearby to support Santiago as she pursues her dream.
“That’s why I’m also staying in Asian countries only. I promised that I wouldn’t go to a country outside Asia so that I can help Jaja in the process,” he shared.
The next step for Santiago, according to Minowa, is to switch federations, as she is still under the Philippine National Volleyball Federation. Until then, the former National University star cannot represent Japan in international competitions.
“For now, she just got citizenship, and she also needs to go through the process of changing her federation,” said the Alas Pilipinas Girls head coach.
“Her federation is still with the Philippines. Now she needs to undergo the process of switching from the Philippine federation to Japan’s. After that, she can play for Japan. So far, not yet; she cannot play for the national team.”
Minowa expressed his pride in Santiago and his confidence that she can make the Japan team that will compete for a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
“Always, I’m proud of her, especially since she’s a person who always respects her coaches and Japanese teammates. That’s why she was able to build a lot of good relationships with players, coaches, and Japanese teammates,” he said.
“That’s the most important thing for a player.”
