Japan’s Ran Takahashi advises Asian volleyball players: Go for ‘high accuracy’

MANILA, Philippines — Japanese men’s volleyball superstar Ran Takahashi finally found the chance to spend more time with his Filipino fans.

After drawing some of the loudest cheers during the Manila leg of the Volleyball Nations League last June, Takahashi returned to the country for a meet-and-greet event as an Akari brand ambassador. 

But the fan favorite also came with some advice for members of Alas Pilipinas, the country’s national volleyball team that’s aiming to make waves in the region in the next few years.

“I think Japanese teams, and of course, Asian teams, are more likely to lose if you think about the height and power of the European teams, and the Americans and Brazilians,” said Takahashi during a media conference on Friday, August 23. 

“In order to make up for that, we need to have high quality, high accuracy volleyball. And also, the ability to play well. That’s what we’ve been improving. I think high accuracy volleyball is the best.” 

While volleyball in the country is improving, Takahashi noted it’s important for players to gain international exposure, or even hone their skills in top-flight leagues abroad. 

“Other Japanese players are also trying to play in international leagues,” said Takahashi, who just saw action in the Olympics with Ryujin Nippon, the Japanese men’s volleyball team that reached the quarterfinals of the Paris Games.

“I think it’s important to get used to the height and power, and to have the power to overcome it,” added Takahashi, who plays professionally in Italy.

“To create teams that will fight in the world [stage], I think that’s what [the Philippines] needs to do.” 

Currently, there are several Filipino volleyball players who brought their acts overseas, including Alas Pilipinas Women captain Jia de Guzman in Japan, Alas Men skipper Bryan Bagunas in Taiwan, and Marck Espejo, also in Japan.

Takahashi also raved about the reception that his team has been receiving in the Philippines, as their games here are usually sold out.

The Japanese outside hitter said he’s impressed by the Filipino fans’ passion for the game, admitting he was touched by the cheers of over 10,000 fans at the arena, with some even talking to him in Niponggo.

Takahashi, who was welcomed by Akari Lighting top officials led by CEO Christopher Tiu, is expected to be back again with the Japanese men’s volleyball team next year for the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship, set to be hosted by the Philippines. – Rappler.com