The Japanese mentor was just starting.
The Nxled Chameleons closed out their campaign in the PVL Second All-Filipino Conference on a high note as they defeated the Farm Fresh Foxies in convincing fashion at the University of San Agustin Gymnasium in Iloilo, last Saturday.
After the match, Player of the Game Camille Victoria made sure to credit his coach for being instrumental in her stellar play.
"Binibigyan ako ng opportunity ni coach Taka (Minowa) to play two positions para makatulong din sa team," said Victoria who played as an opposite spiker and as a middle blocker during the match.
Perhaps her statement is a microcosm of how the Nxled mentor has been helping his team make significant strides in their debut season in the PVL. On Saturday, some of the Chameleons’ best spikers went on Instagram to reaffirm their support and appreciation toward their Japanese mentor.
Outside hitter May Luna did it by reposting an Instagram story made by Nxled strength and conditioning coach Justin Aquino.
“Thank you, coach for your hard work and patience,” written over a photo of Coach Taka with his head down, seemingly tired and stressed out.
Nxled captain Dani Ravena did a repost as well.
Opposite hitter Lycha Ebon meanwhile, also paid tribute to her hard-working coach.
“Thank you for always believing and trusting me that I can do better each day,” she added.
Likewise, setter Maji Mangulabnan had nothing but nice to things to say to Coach Taka.
“So much love and learning from you,” she said.
Among the debuting teams, the Chameleons were clearly the best as the Galeries Tower Highrisers currently have a 1-9 slate while the Gerflor Defenders are at 0-10. Nxled meanwhile, ended up with a 4-7 record, which is good enough for a ninth-place finish.
Coach Taka, who’s married to Filipino volleyball superstar Jaja Santiago, seems poised to guide his squad to an even better showing next season.
(CF)