JaJa-panese got the attention of Asia's finest volleyball personalities with her latest personal milestone, led by former Korea national team ace Kim Yeon-koung.
As Jaja Santiago embarks on a new journey with her freshly-acquired Japanese citizenship, prominent Asian volleyball figures have sent the JT Marvelous star middle blocker with some messages of happiness and support.
First in the list is former South Korean national team ace Kim Yeon-koung, who extended her remarks to Jaja after she finally shared the positive news on Saturday, August 17.
[ALSO READ: Jaja Santiago bares heartfelt message after officially acquiring Japanese citizenship]
One of the greatest Asian players ever, the former Olympics MVP led the volleyball stars and community in celebrating Santiago`s latest feat, who will now take Sachi Minowa as her Japanese name in the process.
“Congrats,” Kim commented.
To which the former NU Lady Bulldog replied: “ Thank you and See you on September!”
KYK retired from Korea’s national team after a fourth-placed finish in Tokyo 2020, losing to eventual bronze medalist Serbia in straight sets. She was the MVP in London 2012 after another semis appearance.
While Kim is no longer active in the national team, the volleyball great remains in the professional circuit in Korea with the Incheon Pink Spiders in the Korean V. League.
London 2012 bronze medalist and former Hinotori Nippon team captain Erika Araki also greeted Santiago: “Jaja! Congratulations! I’m rooting for you all the way!”
To which Jaja returned with a compliment: “Thank you, Erica! I will do my best! You are one of my inspirations to become a better middle blocker.”
Former star setter Takeshita Yoshie, who was also part of the historic Japanese bronze-winning team, likewise congratulated the 28-year-old middle blocker.
“I’m rooting for you. Good luck,' Yoshie commented.
“I am very honored to receive your message! Thank you so much! I will do my best!,” Santiago-Minowa responded.
Besides Kim, Araki and Yoshie, other notable local volleybelles also celebrated the success of Santiago, who last played in the Philippines in 2021 when she led Chery Tiggo to the PVL Open Conference championship as league MVP.
Earlier this year, Santiago was called to train with the Japanese women's volleyball team after a stellar first season with JT Marvelous, finishing a silver medal in the V1.
The former National U star started playing in Japan during the 2018-19 season, carving out a career that saw her become one of the league's premier middle blockers
[ALSO READ: Chery Tiggo happy to see Jaja Santiago get closer to her Olympic dream after acquiring Japanese citizenship]