Risa Sato, who boasts of 11 championships in a stellar career, will beef up the frontline of Akari in time for the opening of the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) on 8 July.

The Chargers announced Thursday the return of the Filipino-Japanese middle blocker after Chery Tiggo took a leave of absence last December.

“Ready to bring in her championship experience and energy. Risa will be a huge boost for the Chargers. Let’s go!” Akari posted on its social media.

Sato captured her first PVL title with BaliPure in 2017 before winning 10 championships with the league’s top team Creamline. 

She transferred to Chery Tiggo last year after spending most of her career with the Cool Smashers.

The former National University standout also announced her marriage to basketball player Enzo Joson and revealed the birth of their child last November.

Sato reunites with former Creamline teammate Ced Domingo to strengthen Akari’s middle rotation alongside Fifi Sharma. 

The Chargers also added former Galeries Tower middle blocker Shar Ancheta and ex-Farm Fresh libero Ann Monares during the offseason.