Caught off guard: Minowa opens up about his unexpected PVL exit

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Offers from overseas clubs remain open as Minowa plans his next step. [PVL Images]

Japanese coach Takayuki Minowa didn’t see it coming.

After pouring his energy into building the Akari Chargers, the former PVL mentor admitted he was blindsided by the sudden news of his departure—a development he describes as abrupt and disappointing. The announcement, made to him on May 1, came without warning and left him struggling to make sense of the decision.

“I had been asking for the team’s direction since March,” Minowa shared in an exclusive interview. “Even after the conference ended, I received no updates. Then, out of nowhere, I was informed that I was leaving. It was really unexpected.”

The news marked a jarring end to Minowa’s tenure with the Chargers, a team he had helped guide through critical stages of growth. While contract expiration played a role, the manner of communication left a bitter taste.

“I think the owner and new head coach needed time to organize their plans,” he said. “But honestly, the way it was handled wasn’t professional. I was very surprised—especially because the team’s culture and discipline were finally taking shape.”

No closure, just a sudden exit

For Minowa, the shock wasn’t just about leaving—it was about being left in the dark.

He emphasized that his exit lacked the clarity and mutual dialogue he expected, given the efforts he had invested in the program. “Other coaches in similar positions were also left uncertain. It’s not just about me, but how things were managed.”

Despite the frustration, the 33-year-old coach is choosing to move forward. Volleyball remains his passion, and he’s eager to return to the sidelines—though this time, with more focus on his own development.

“The PVL’s year-round schedule left me little time to grow as a coach. Now, I want to spend time learning, improving, and preparing for what’s next.”

On the national team, Minowa said:

“As for the national team, they already have a mature and well-formed coaching staff, so I don’t believe there’s anything I could contribute there. However, whether in the Philippines or elsewhere, if there’s a place that needs me, I am ready to give my full passion and love.”

He is also grateful for the unwavering support of his wife, Sachi Minowa (Jaja Santiago), who has been by his side throughout this journey. “She was saddened too, but we both believe everything happens for a reason.”

For now, offers from clubs abroad remain in play, though no decisions have been finalized. As Minowa reflects on his Akari chapter, one thing is clear—he didn’t expect it to end the way it did.

“I will really miss watching the team grow. We weren’t even halfway through the plan. That’s what hurts the most—leaving the process unfinished.”

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Brian Yalung

Managing Editor at Sports Bytes PH

Brian Yalung is a long-time writer who covers most sports and technology. He focuses on one-on-one interviews with athletes and organizations, going in-depth. He finished his Masters in Business Administration degree at the Ateneo Graduate School of Business and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Applications at the DLSU-College of St. Benilde.