Akari has officially promoted Tina Salak as head coach for the upcoming 2025 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) season, marking her debut at the professional level.
The Chargers made the announcement on Monday evening through their official social media platforms. She replaces the departing Taka Minowa, who is stepping down from the team.
Salak, a legendary setter and former national team captain, previously served as an assistant coach under Minowa during the 2024 PVL season.
With her elevation to the top post, she will also be assembling her own coaching staff, following Akari’s departure from assistant coaches Rodel Canino, Vilet Ponce De Leon, and Yuga Hagashi on Sunday.
(C) PVL Images
Akari finished seventh in the 2024 All-Filipino Conference under Minowa before making a strong run in the Reinforced Conference, securing a runner-up finish.
The team continued its upward trajectory by placing third in the 2024–25 All-Filipino Conference.
For Salak, this appointment is a full-circle moment.
She began her professional playing career in the V-League with the Philippine Army and was named Best Setter in the second conference of Season 9. She also saw action with Chery Tiggo during the 2021 PVL bubble tournament.
Despite taking on her new role with Akari, Salak will continue to serve as the head coach of the FEU Lady Tamaraws in the UAAP.
