Former Ateneo Blue Eagle middle blocker Brian Castro is taking the next step in his volleyball career after signing with Japanese club Fragolad Kagoshima for the 2026–27 SV.LEAGUE season.
The club announced the signing on Friday, making Castro the latest Filipino player to earn a spot in Japan’s premier professional volleyball league.
He joins a growing list of Filipinos who have competed in the SV.LEAGUE, including Bryan Bagunas, Marck Espejo, Dindin Santiago-Manabat, Jia De Guzman, Maddie Madayag, and Sachi Minowa.
“I’d like to say I’m very excited. This is one of the biggest experiences of my career,” Castro said.
The 6-foot-4 middle blocker also credited Mark Salamat and Ali Castro for helping facilitate the opportunity.
“Sir Mark introduced me to Ali, and we talked things through. They found an opening with Fragolad, and that was pretty much it. They introduced me to the team and helped me secure this signing in Japan,” he shared.
Brian Castro Makes a New in Eagles’ Nest
Castro spent the past two UAAP seasons with Ateneo, helping the Blue Eagles return to the Final Four in Season 88 after a fifth-place finish the year before.
He played a key role in Ateneo’s resurgence, with the Blue Eagles eventually bowing to the FEU Tamaraws in a hard-fought five-set semifinal series.
As he prepares for his first professional stint overseas, Castro said his experience with Ateneo has equipped him for the challenges that lie ahead.
“I think the one thing I’m going to take away from my time at Ateneo is resilience. We don’t give up—we’re always ready to climb that hill,” he said.
Brian Castro now embarks on a new chapter in Japan, where he hopes to continue his development while representing Philippine volleyball on one of Asia’s biggest professional stages.
