UE bolsters staff with Kurashiki Ablaze elements

Hideo Suzuki, Dr. Obet Vital, Jerry Yee, Shota Sato

With Jerry Yee being suspended for the remainder of the women's volleyball tournament for UAAP Season 86, the University of the East has tapped a couple of recent Manila visitors to bolster its current staff.

Kurashiki Ablaze assistant coach Shota Sato and opposite spiker Asaka Tamaru have been added onto the staff.

In making the announcement, team manager Jared Lao says, "We're thrilled to welcome Head Consultant Shota Sato and Assistant Coach Asaka Tamaru to UE. Witnessing their prowess in the 2023 PVL Invitational Conference has us eager to absorb their knowledge."

He adds, "With Coach Jerry temporarily away, they take the reins, and the players are excited. As the saying goes, 'It ain't over 'til it's over,' and under their leadership, we're ready for the journey ahead."

Sato served as an assistant under Hideo Suzuki when the Ablaze claimed the 2023 PVL Invitational Conference, and will be handed the title of Head Consultant.

In the same campaign, Tamaru had been honored as the Best Opposite Spiker, and for this one will take the title of Assistant Coach.

The duo, who arrived this past Thursday, will complement the incumbent staff, comprised of Dr. Obet Vital, Stephanie Cholico, Allan Mendoza, Ludio Dulce, Gregory Ericta, John Paul Martires, and the redshirting Jelai Gajero.

The new coaching set-up will make its debut this Sunday, March 10, when the Lady Warriors face National University at the Mall of Asia Arena, as they try to move up the standings from their current 1-4 record.