The Akari Chargers, now under head coach Tina Salak, are eager to build on their breakthrough run last year-with Mars Alba taking over as the new setter to lead their offense.
Akari reached its first-ever PVL finals last season, stringing together 10 straight wins before falling to Creamline in the championship match. With Japanese coach Taka Minowa stepping down in the offseason, Salak steps in to guide a team hungry for more.
‘What motivates me is the fact that the team made it to the finals last year,’ Salak told reporters in Filipino. ‘That’s why we’re working really hard to get back to that stage. We’re also very excited to have Annie [Mitchem] on board. She’s a huge help to the team, and her maturity really stands out. It’s inspiring for the younger players.’ Mitchem, a 31-year-old American outside hitter, will lead the Chargers alongside Alas Pilipinas standouts Fifi Sharma and Justine Jazareno, and mainstays Grethcel Soltones, Ced Domingo, Ivy Lacsina, and Eli Soyud.
Salak also expressed excitement over Alba’s arrival.
‘Mars has made a big impact on the team-not just with her skills, but also by lightening the mood,’ said the former national team setter. ‘She’s a big plus. Her leadership stands out, and she’s been sharing a lot that we can learn from and possibly blend into our system.’
Alba’s role is even more crucial with Kamille Cal still injured and Bea Bonafe still adjusting.
While Salak admits her team is still getting used to her system, she’s optimistic about their progress.
‘There are still moments of confusion, which is expected since the players come from different systems. But it’s manageable because we all have the same goal: to win,’ Salak said. ‘We’re working together as a team, and management has been helping a lot in improving each player’s performance.’