In a heartfelt social media post on Saturday, Taka Minowa announced his departure from Akari, marking the end of an era for the Chargers.
Minowa, the Japanese tactician behind Akari’s remarkable rise from a bottom-dwelling team to a serious title contender, expressed deep gratitude to the players, staff, and supporters who stood by him throughout his journey.
“As I now step away from this role, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the coaching staff, who worked with relentless commitment — you guys are like family to me. I was only able to do my work here because of your constant support,” Minowa wrote.
“To the players, who gave their best every single day — thank you for all your sacrifices and your patience. To the social media team — you gave me a completely new experience and brought me the joy of sharing volleyball in a different way,” he continued.
“And to the PVL and the fans — your unwavering support and warmth truly made a difference.”
Minowa, husband of Filipino volleyball icon Jaja Santiago, began his coaching stint in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) with Nxled before moving to sister team Akari after just two conferences. At the time, Akari had yet to break into the top six since joining the league.
“One year ago, I received an offer from team management who told me, ‘We have a lineup that can become a champion team,’” Minowa recalled. “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 turned into pressure — but for me, that pressure gave me purpose and deep motivation.”
(C) PVL Images
In his very first conference with Akari, Minowa led the squad to its first-ever PVL finals appearance in the 2024 Reinforced Conference, where they fell to the mighty Creamline Cool Smashers in a straight-set sweep.
His second campaign saw a rocky start but ultimately ended in a bronze finish at the 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference after a gritty semifinal run.
“We chose not to chase results, but to focus on daily growth,” said Minowa. “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.”
Now stepping away, Minowa hopes the Chargers can carry on the momentum and push toward the PVL title that has long eluded them.
“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,” he noted, citing Creamline’s climb to its 10-title dynasty.
“The foundation has been laid. The belief is real. And the future is bright. Go for gold!”
Minowa ended his statement with a message of gratitude not only to Akari but to Philippine volleyball as a whole — a sport he embraced fully in his wife’s home country.
“I would be truly grateful if I’ve been able to make even a small positive impact or provide some inspiration to the team and to Philippine volleyball,” he said. “It was an honor to work in my wife’s home country. Thank you, team. Thank you, PVL.”
According to reports, Minowa’s assistant coach and volleyball legend Tina Salak is expected to take over the head coaching duties for Akari — a promising continuation of the foundation he helped build.
