Japanese head coach Koji Tsuzurabara is making his return to the Premier Volleyball League, Strong Group Athletics announced Friday.
Tsuzurabara is set to take over Farm Fresh following the departure of Italian tactician Alessandro Lodi, who parted ways with the club after a shocking quarterfinal exit in the season-ending Reinforced Conference.
The loss marked a stunning collapse for a team that had dominated the eliminations, finishing with a franchise-best 7–1 record.
The 61-year-old Tsuzurabara previously guided Petro Gazz to its first-ever All-Filipino Conference title last year but resigned midway through the PVL On Tour, reportedly due to a fallout with the Angels’ management.
At Strong Group Athletics, Tsuzurabara will inherit a talented roster featuring a blend of veterans and rising stars, including Alohi Robins-Hardy, Ces Molina, Trisha Tubu, Lorene Toring, and Jolina Dela Cruz — all poised to make an impact under his guidance.
The team has also reinforced its lineup with additional experienced players and promising young talents, including some of Tsuzurabara’s former wards from Petro Gazz, such as Remy Palma and Chie Saet.
Adding to the coaching staff is former Chery Tiggo assistant coach Kungfu Reyes, whose expertise is expected to provide further depth and guidance for the team in the upcoming All-Filipino Conference.
(C) PVL Images
