In an exclusive interview with The Global Filipino Magazine, former Ateneo standout Brian Castro opened up about his signing with SV.League Division 1 club Fragolad Kagoshima, the decision that pulled him away from collegiate volleyball, and the goals he is carrying into his first season abroad. Castro, who is currently in the United States spending time with family, walked us through how the deal materialized and what the move means to him.
The signing traces back to his FIVB agent, who circulated the middle blocker’s game footage and CV to the Japanese club. Castro said Kagoshima studied his full playing background before deciding he suited their needs. “They took the time to evaluate my experience, including my years playing in the United States and my time with Ateneo in the Philippines,” he told TGFM. “After reviewing everything, they felt that my playing style, background, and potential would be a good fit for what they were looking for.”
Learning of the club’s interest, Castro said, left him energized about the prospect of testing himself in one of the sport’s strongest leagues. “Japan has one of the best volleyball environments in the world. I knew it would be a great opportunity to continue developing my game, learn from experienced coaches and teammates, and compete at a higher level,” he said. He was candid that leaving Ateneo weighed on him. “It wasn’t an easy decision because Ateneo has played a huge role in my journey, but I felt this was the right time to take the next step in my career. I’m grateful to Fragolad Kagoshima for believing in me, and I’m looking forward to giving my best for the club.”
Asked what he anticipates most about the Japanese game, Castro pointed to the culture surrounding it. “The level of competition, discipline, and attention to detail are something I’ve always admired,” he said. He added that daily training alongside skilled players and seasoned coaches is a draw, as is the chance to settle into life in a new country. “Off the court, I’m also excited to experience Japanese culture and grow as a person while living in a new country,” he said.
Castro credited his time with the Blue Eagles for readying him for the jump. He described a program that demanded improvement from him at every turn, with coaches and teammates alike raising his standard. “Playing in the UAAP taught me how to handle pressure, stay disciplined, and keep working through challenges. I’m very grateful to everyone at Ateneo because they played a huge role in preparing me for this opportunity,” he said.
That gratitude comes with a sense of what he is leaving behind. Castro said the collegiate atmosphere would be hard to replace, particularly the crowds and the jersey. “There’s nothing quite like the atmosphere during college games. More than anything, I’ll miss my teammates, coaches, and the friendships we built over the years,” he said. “Those memories and experiences will always stay with me wherever I play.”
Looking ahead to his debut campaign, Castro framed his first season around adjustment and earning his place rather than immediate accolades. “My biggest goal is to keep learning and earn the trust of my coaches and teammates. I want to adjust as quickly as possible to the level of play in Japan and contribute in any way I can to help the team succeed,” he said. “I want to become a more complete player and continue growing every day. I know this is just the beginning, so I’m focused on improving one step at a time.”
He closed the interview with a note to the Filipinos who have followed his career. “Your encouragement, whether during my time in the US, at Ateneo, or now as I begin this new chapter, has meant more than you know,” Castro said. “I’ll continue to work hard, stay humble, and represent the Philippines with pride every time I step onto the court. I hope you’ll continue supporting me throughout this journey, and I’ll do my best to make you proud.”
