Japan – Keeping tradition alive

Lausanne, Switzerland, April 29, 2016 – Twelve teams will compete in FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix Group 1 in 2016 hoping to qualify for the Finals in Bangkok, Thailand from July 6 to 10. As the competition approaches we feature Japan in the seventh of a 12-part series.

Japan – Keeping a rich tradition in women’s volleyball alive

Japan have achieved a World Grand Prix feat in terms of participation, as they have appeared in all editions of the premier annual women’s tournament. This year, they will continue that tradition and will participate for the 24th time.

Japan have made numerous attempts to reach the World Grand Prix podium since 1993 and managed to finish fourth on three occasions – in 1994, 1997 and 2013. It took them 22 years before they finally landed on the podium as they finished as runners-up in 2014.

Japan conceded to Brazil 3-0 (25-15, 25-18, 27-25) in the gold medal match, but the Asian side sent a strong message to their rivals that they can certainly match any team’s intensity and style of play. The team sacrificed a lot and have improved their offence, but never gave up on what they are best known for – their defence. Japan further stamped their authority on defence when Yuko Sano was named tournament MVP and Best Libero.

Last year, Japan reached the Final Six in Omaha but finished bottom after losing their five matches. They triumphed in four of their nine matches in the Preliminary Round, winning twice over Thailand 3-0 …

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