By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
Japanese volleyball tactician Taka Minowa only needed a single conference in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) to bring out the best of the squad he is handling.
Just like what they say, good things come to those who do great. Last December 28, 2023, the Akari franchise announced that Minowa would be promoted as the Director of Volleyball Operations while at the same time remain as the head coach of the NXLED Chameleons.
Minowa will serve as the head of the office not only for Akari but also for NXLED as both squads are sister franchises in the PVL.
Despite handling the squad for the first time without any familiarity with the pool of players, Minowa was able to carry NXLED to an impressive debut in the All-Filipino Conference.
The young team finished with a record of 4-7 and surpassed the expectations of the majority in the Philippine volleyball scene.
“Following an impressive coaching debut in the Premier Volleyball League, Nxled Chameleons’ head coach Taka Minowa will now serve as the Director of Volleyball Operations for both his squad and the Akari Chargers,” the franchise stated.
Minowa is the husband of Filipina Japan Volleyball League import and PHL national team legend Jaja Santiago.
Before accepting the job offer in the country, Minowa had numerous coaching duties in Japan including the assistant role for the Japanese national team during the AVC Cup.
With the vast knowledge that coach Minowa has and the quick adjustment he made since entering the PVL, expect both Akari and NXLED to soar to greater heights in the upcoming conferences next year.
