Volleyball star Michelle Cobb announces retirement, but stays with Akari Chargers

Metro Manila, Philippines - Akari Chargers captain Michelle Cobb announced her retirement from playing volleyball on Wednesday.

"After years of love and dedication to the game, I’ve decided to close this chapter. I’m retiring with a grateful heart, proud of everything this journey has given me,"she wrote in an emotional Instagram post.

"To everyone who’s been part of this journey, thank you for being family," she added.

The 26-year-old will not be away from the sport as she will be transitioning into Akari’s new setting coach and assistant team manager.

"Volleyball has been a huge part of my life. It’s where I found confidence, built lifelong friendships, and learned to push myself, win with pride, and lose with grace," she said.

Before being the pioneering leader of Akari in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), Cobb already had a successful collegiate career. She played under legendary coach Ramil de Jesus, and was part of the De La Salle University Lady Spikers' UAAP title runs in 2017 and 2018.

The Lady Spikers settled for bronze in 2019 before the pandemic put an abrupt end to her UAAP career.

Cobb also joined the now-defunct F2 Logistics Cargo Movers in the Philippine Superliga. She suited up for the club from 2018 to 2019.

In 2022, Cobb made her professional debut as part of Akari's inaugural lineup in the PVL. She won a silver medal and bronze medal with the squad during her stay.

Akari recently parted ways with Taka Minowa and promoted Tina Salak as its new head coach with Kamille Cal as the team's lone setter following Cobbs' retirement.