UAAP: Tina Salak exits FEU to focus on Akari coaching stint

Tina Salak has left her post at Far Eastern University as the veteran head coach will solely focus on guiding the Akari Chargers in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL).

FEU announced the development on Saturday, expressing gratitude to the 49-year-old volleyball tactician, who led the team's resurgence over the past four years in the UAAP.

"We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Coach Tina Salak for her outstanding leadership and commitment to the team over the past four seasons," the school said in a Facebook post.

"Her dedication, passion, and tireless efforts have played a significant role in shaping our program and elevating our standards both on and off the field."

Salak joined the team in Season 85 in 2022 to serve at the helm of her alma mater, leading them to a 6-8 record and fifth place. But Salak abruptly ended her stint when she departed the following year to migrate to the United States.

She returned in Season 87 in 2024 and helped the Lady Tamaraws make a Final Four comeback with a 9-5 card, before they fell to National University in a tight five-set affair to bow out of contention.

In Seasons 88 and 89, FEU had back-to-back fifth-place finishes.

Salak will now devote her coaching brilliance with Akari, which is still looking for its breakthrough title after a runner-up and two third-place outings in the last two years.

"As she takes the next exciting step in her career and transitions into the professional ranks, we proudly support her journey and wish her continued success at the highest level of the sport," FEU added.

"This is a well-deserved opportunity, and we are confident she will make a meaningful impact in the next chapter of her coaching career."

—JKC, GMA News