It has been approximately seven months since Japanese coach Takayuki Minowa arrived in the Philippines to take on the head coaching duties of the Nxled Chameleons.
In his short time mentoring his young squad, he has helped the players develop, enabling them to exceed expectations in two conferences of the Premier Volleyball League.
In seven months, Minowa has shown dedication and passion in helping not only Nxled, but also the Philippines as a whole to elevate the skills of players in the country.
But what has he been up to if he’s not in games or in practices? Here’s what the former assistant coach of the Japan national women’s volleyball team told Akari Sports.
“Actually, almost everyday [I] just stay in the house. Practice, go back home, and then walk again so I never go outside, maybe only Megamall or just buying some food for the dog only,” Minowa shared.
With the dry season scorching the country lately, Minowa chooses to stay at home with Ahava, the dog gifted to him by his wife, Filipina volleyball star Jaja Santiago.
“[It’s] so hot, sobrang init.”
When asked about what he likes about the Filipino culture, Minowa highlighted the Filipinos’ optimism, especially during challenging times.
“Some of them (Filipinos) is always positive thinking compared to Japan. Japanese are very negative thinking so that kind of culture, I like it,” Minowa said.
What he doesn’t like about the Philippines, though, is the inconsistency in traffic rules.
“Motorcycle is too much makulit. I’m driving in the Philippines, but no rule in here compared to Japan because in Japan, there’s a lot of signal and rules, [but] I’m already getting [used] to the traffic [here].”
To end the interview, the Japanese coach was then asked about his favorite Filipino dish — and his response is sure to delight the readers.
“Sinigang,” Minowa quickly replied, “First time Jaja teach me how to cook the Filipino food, she wants to eat when she got tired and sick, but she cannot cook so I need to cook the Sinigang,” he added.
