Jaja Santiago, a Filipina volleyball star, led the Osaka Marvelous to a historic championship victory in the Japan SV.League.
The team swept the NEC Red Rockets 2-0 in the finals, clinching their first league title in four years.
The decisive Game 2 took place on May 3, 2025, in Japan, with the Marvelous dominating the match with set scores of 25-22, 25-21, and 25-16.
Santiago contributed 10 points in the final match, which included seven attacks and three blocks.
This victory marked a significant milestone in her career, as it made her the first Filipina player to be part of a team that won the Japanese league title.
The win also highlighted her impact on international volleyball, as Santiago had a pivotal role in the Marvelous’ success this season.
Santiago’s dedication to her team and her commitment to representing the Philippines were key factors in her outstanding performance.
The Osaka Marvelous’ championship win concludes Santiago’s successful stint in Japan, where she had already made significant achievements, including a silver medal in the Japan V.League.
Santiago began her professional career in Japan in 2019. In August 2024, she acquired Japanese citizenship and adopted the name Sachi Minowa.
Despite her naturalization, she remains ineligible to play for Japan’s national team due to FIVB regulations.
Which prevents players from representing more than one country in international competition.
Santiago’s championship with Osaka Marvelous adds to her list of achievements, including a Japan V Cup title with Ageo Medics in 2021.
Her success serves as an inspiration for Filipino athletes pursuing international careers.
Jaja Santiago is married to Taka Minowa, a Japanese volleyball coach affiliated with Ageo Medics. They tied the knot in August 2022 after years of building their relationship in Japan’s volleyball community.
In 2024, Jaja Santiago ranked among the top Filipina volleyball players, based on her team’s tournament performances and her individual awards throughout the season. Her consistent impact on the court strengthened her reputation as one of the elite players.
Following her acquisition of Japanese citizenship, Jaja Santiago officially adopted the name Sachi Minowa. The name change reflects her new nationality while marking a new chapter in her volleyball career.
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