Jaja Santiago, now known as Sachi Minowa, continues her Japan journey as she joins the Denso Airybees, bringing championship experience into her 8th season in the SV.League.
Jaja Santiago’s volleyball journey in Japan continues as she officially signed with the Denso Airybees for the upcoming Japan SV.League season, the team announced on Wednesday, August 27.
The 6-foot-5 middle blocker, who also goes by her Japanese name Sachi Minowa, joins Denso after two fruitful years with Osaka Marvelous, where she played a pivotal role in capturing the championship in the league's most recent edition.
“I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to play for Denso Airybees this season. A big thank you to the team for welcoming me. I’m excited to work hard and contribute to our success,” Minowa said in the team’s release.
“My goal is to give my best every game, improve continuously, and help us achieve great results. Together, I believe we can reach our goal and make everyone proud.”
This would mark Santiago’s eighth consecutive season in Japan. Before her stint with Osaka, she spent five seasons anchoring the middle for the Saitama Ageo Medics.
[ALSO READ: Jaja Santiago eyes European volleyball stint after title run with Osaka in Japan SV.League]
The Denso Airybees, who finished fourth last season with a 29-15 record, are looking to break through to the top, and Minowa's arrival provides both championship experience and elite play.
Her move also adds a layer of familiarity for Filipino fans, as Denso has been home to Alas Pilipinas team captain Jia De Guzman over the past two years.
With two Best Middle Blocker awards already under her name in Japan’s top league, Minowa is expected to bring both veteran leadership and world-class play to a squad eager to bring home the SV.League title.