UE beefs up Lady Warriors coaching staff

MANILA, Philippines – Following the suspension of UE head coach Jerry Yee, the Lady Red Warriors have tapped an assistant coach and a player of the Kurashiki Ablaze to their coaching staff.

Kurashiki assistant coach Shota Sato and opposite spiker Asaku Tamaru will be joining UE as part of the team’s coaching staff.

Sato will be the team’s head consultant, while Tamaru will be the team’s assistant coach.

Kurashiki earlier dominated the 2023 PVL Invitational Conference.

"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," Lady Warriors team manager Jared Lao said.

"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,” he added.

Following Yee’s suspension, the UE coaching staff is made up of Obet Vital, Stephanie Cholico, Allan Mendoza, Ludio Dulce, Gregory Ericta, John Paul Martires and Jelai Gajero.

UE said that Sato and Tamaru arrived in the Philippines last Thursday.

They will be making their coaching debuts on Sunday when the Lady Red Warriors face the National University Lady Bulldogs at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

UE is currently freefalling in the UAAP women’s volleyball tournament with a record of 1-4.