Taka Minowa’s debut as head coach of Akari Chargers in the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference couldn’t have been more promising.
Leading the team to an impressive franchise-best 4-0 start, Minowa has quickly established himself as a pivotal force behind Akari's surge.
Thursday’s victory against the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles marked another milestone for Minowa, who found extra motivation in the presence of his wife Jaja Santiago at the Philsports Arena.
Santiago watched her husband in action for the first time in the PVL.
“Yes, it’s the first time she watched me,” Minowa proudly said.
“Actually, it’s a good inspiration because we came here together and then watched Choco Mucho against Capital1 where Dindin was playing. I can feel that family is here.”
The soft-spoken Minowa, who is beginning to incorporate Filipino phrases into his coaching vocabulary, demonstrated his ability to lead with both strategy and heart. 
His inspirational connection with Santiago seemed to inject a renewed vigor into the Chargers, propelling them to the top of the Pool B standings, tied with Cignal at 4-0.
The stage is now set for an exhilarating showdown for solo leadership on Tuesday at 1 p.m.
Akari’s dominance has been nothing short of spectacular. They handily dispatched ZUS Coffee in straight sets and overpowered Capital1 in four.
Even more impressive were their stunning reverse sweeps against strong teams like Choco Mucho and Petro Gazz, showcasing the Chargers' resilience and Minowa’s tactical acumen.
For Santiago, who is preparing for her season with JT Marvelous in the V.League and navigating her naturalization process in Japan, this moment was a cherished opportunity to witness her husband's burgeoning success.
Her presence undoubtedly served as a potent source of inspiration for Minowa, reinforcing the powerful synergy between personal and professional life.
