For almost a decade, Japan served as the foundation of Jaja Santiago’s rise into one of Asia’s most respected middle blockers. Now, the Filipino volleyball star is preparing to write a new chapter and this time on American soil.
Santiago, who now competes under the name Sachi Minowa, confirmed that she will continue her professional career in the United States after securing a spot in League One Volleyball (LOVB), one of the sport’s newest and fastest-growing professional leagues.
“I’m going to US next season,” Santiago confirmed.
Days after her announcement, LOVB officially welcomed the Filipina through its social media channels.
“Adding a new country to our list: the Philippines! Welcome, Sachi “Jaja” Minowa!!”
The move signals the end of a remarkable nine-year stay in Japan, where Santiago steadily established herself as one of the country’s elite middle blockers.
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Adding a new country to our list: the Philippines! Welcome, Sachi “Jaja” Minowa!!
Jaja is a talented middle blocker who is a Japanese SV.League Champion with multiple Best spiker and Best blocker awards!
Welcome, Jaja! pic.twitter.com/wkyzNXp97E
— League One Volleyball (@leagueonevb) June 24, 2026
She first suited up for Saitama Ageo Medics, spending five seasons with the club before transferring to Osaka Marvelous, where she played a key role in capturing the 2024–25 SV.League championship.
She wrapped up her Japanese career with the Denso Airybees during the 2025–26 season before deciding to pursue a fresh challenge in the United States.
Across her successful stint in Japan, Santiago collected two Best Middle Blocker awards, cementing her reputation as one of the league’s most dominant forces at the net.
Her next destination also represents another step into volleyball’s evolving professional landscape.
League One Volleyball launched its inaugural professional season in 2025 and has quickly attracted elite talent from around the world.
Unlike traditional leagues, LOVB signs players directly before distributing them among its 10 professional teams, meaning Santiago’s club assignment will be announced at a later date.
She joins an expanding roster of international stars in the league, including Thailand standout Pimpichaya Kokram, as LOVB continues to strengthen its global reach.
While awaiting the announcement of her new team, Santiago shared that her focus remains on staying in top condition as she prepares for another major transition in her career.
With Japan behind her and a new opportunity waiting in the United States, Santiago’s journey continues to expand beyond borders—adding another milestone to one of the most accomplished international careers by a Filipino volleyball player.
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