Taka Minowa is moving on from Akari after leading the Chargers to their best run in the PVL so far, making the Finals in the 2024 Reinforced Conference and winning bronze in the 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference.
After guiding the Akari Chargers to the most successful stretch in their young Premier Volleyball League (PVL) history, Japanese coach Taka Minowa is stepping away from his role, leaving behind a legacy of growth, belief, and quiet transformation.
Minowa, who first arrived in the PVL in 2023 to coach the Nxled Chameleons before being elevated to Director of Volleyball Operations for both Nxled and Akari, took the reins of the Chargers starting the 2024 Reinforced Conference.
In just his first full conference as head coach, he led Akari to a stunning Finals appearance, the team’s highest finish yet.
Minowa followed that up with a bronze-medal run in the 2025 All-Filipino Conference — a remarkable back-to-back podium stretch for a franchise that had never placed higher than seventh in its first five PVL stints.
“We chose not to chase results, but to focus on daily growth,” said Minowa in his farewell message.
“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.”
His impact extended beyond the stat sheets. Known for his calm leadership and team-first philosophy, coach Taka helped build a culture rooted in discipline and trust — one that allowed the Chargers to evolve from a struggling expansion squad into a legitimate title contender.
“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 added.
“It was an honor to work in my wife’s home country.”
Minowa, who is married to volleyball star Jaja Santiago, leaves behind a program far stronger than the one he inherited — a parting gift to a franchise and a community he now calls family.
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]