All news tagged CoachKojiTsuzurabara

Former Petro Gazz Angels head coach Koji Tsuzurabara is embarking on a new chapter, having officially signed with the SG Hawks of Mongolia.

Tsuzurabara’s contract runs from September 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026, offering the seasoned Japanese mentor a fresh opportunity on the international volleyball stage. 

He is set to depart for Ulaanbaatar via Seoul on September 3, where he will immediately begin preparations with his new squad.

“It’s a fresh start with a new team. Although it will be a short stay, I’m committed to working hard and giving my best for my new home team,” Tsuzurabara told Scoreline.ph.

The move follows his tenure with the Petro Gazz Angels in the Premier Volleyball League, where his tactical expertise and steady leadership were instrumental. 

Last April of this year, the Angels proved to themselves that the win was theirs. They dethroned the Creamline Cool Smashers with a commanding 25-21, 25-16, 23-25, 25-19 victory in their Game 3 battle.

For the former Petro Gazz head coach, their championship was the culmination of a long-held dream.

Tsuzurabara then never doubted his team. He believed in the players he had—players capable of going all the way.

Tsuzurabara was also fortunate and thrilled to have a talented team, including standout players like Brooke Van Sickle and MJ Philips, who not only secured the championship but also earned the Conference MVP and Finals MVP awards, respectively.

“I trust the players we could win. I’m lucky to have a great team with great players,”  Tsuzurabara said.

And now in Mongolia, Tsuzurabara aims to bring the same experience and passion as he leads the SG Hawks in their upcoming campaign.

Petro Gazz Angels head coach Koji Tsuzurabara has parted ways with the Angels.

In an exclusive message to Scoreline.ph, the 60-year-old coach confirmed his decision, stating: “As you may have heard, I’ve decided to leave the team. I’ll go to a country that needs me. See you soon.”

Tsuzurabara added that his agent is actively searching for his next team but assured fans that he’s open to returning: “If a PVL team needs me, I’ll come back to the Philippines.”

His departure means Tsuzurabara will miss the Angels’ crucial final pool match against Choco Mucho on July 29 at the Candon City Arena.

Meanwhile, in a Facebook post by the Petro Gazz Angels, they expressed their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to their former mentor, who dedicated his life—especially for the legacy he left behind.

“Coach Koji, as you return home to Japan to be with your family, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude. Your decision to pursue new opportunities in your continuing volleyball journey is acknowledged with deep respect.

Thank you for the time and dedication you have shared with us. You have been more than just a coach—you have been a mentor, a teacher, and a true inspiration. We are especially grateful for the legacy you leave behind, having led us to our first-ever All-Filipino Championship in the PVL. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors.”

During his tenure, Tsuzurabara made history with the Angels, guiding them to become the first local team in the league’s pro era to defeat Creamline in the PVL Finals since Chery Tiggo’s 2021 Open Conference victory.

Before his PVL debut in January last year, he steered Petro Gazz to gold in the 2024 PNVF Champions League, sweeping Cignal in the finals.

Tsuzurabara led the Angels to the podium twice in three conferences—earning bronze in his first All-Filipino Conference, finishing sixth in the import-laden tournament, and eventually capturing the PVL crown.