MUFG SV.LEAGUE ALL STAR GAMES 2024-25 ISHIKAWA WOMEN: SV.LEAGUE's First Ever All-Star Games Bringing Joyous Moments to a Region Recovering from the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake

Japan's top-tier volleyball players came together this weekend for the MUFG SV.LEAGUE ALL STAR GAMES 2024-25 ISHIKAWA during the league’s highly successful inaugural regular season. The women’s all-star match, held at the Toriyasai-Miso Bluecats Arena in Ishikawa, drew an enthusiastic crowd of 2,484 spectators. The arena was filled with joy and excitement as players entertained fans in a region still recovering from the devastating 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake. The event embodied the league’s commitment to contributing to the recovery effort through the unifying power of sport.

The All-Star Game featured 28 players selected through fan voting and league recommendations, split into Team Nichika, led by captain Nichika Yamada (NEC RED ROCKETS KAWASAKI), and Team Kotona, led by captain Kotona Hayashi (OSAKA MARVELOUS). Before the match began, a moment of silence was held to honor the victims of the earthquake and to pray for the region’s speedy recovery.

The first set saw thrilling exchanges between the league’s top players, with both teams displaying exceptional skills. Despite a strong effort by Team Kotona, led by captain Hayashi, Team Nichika secured the set 25-23 with key contributions from Rosamaria Montibeller (DENSO AIRYBEES) and Yamada.

In the second set, Team Kotona gained momentum, fueled by spikes from local favorite Miyu Kawazoe of the PFU BlueCats ISHIKAWA KAHOKU, who plays in Ishikawa. Their dominance resulted in a decisive 25-17 win.

The third set brought a light-hearted twist, with moments of humor and camaraderie. Highlights included a linesman stepping in to serve, Ayaka Araki (Team Kotona | SAGA Hisamitsu Springs) taking on the role of referee, and all players joining the court for a dramatic 14-14 rally. The crowd erupted in laughter and cheers as the players showcased their lighter side. The set concluded with a fiercely contested battle, ultimately won by Team Kotona 28-26 after a powerful spike by Yukiko Wada (NEC RED ROCKETS KAWASAKI).

Match Result

TEAM NICHIKA 1-2 TEAM KOTONA (Attendance: 2,484)
☆25-23
17-25☆
26-28☆

Set.1 （B report for Set.1 - Japanese）
Set.2 （B report for Set.2 - Japanese）
Please note that the official record for Set 3 is unavailable.

MUFG Award (MVP)
Miyu Kawazoe (TEAM KOTONA,PFU BlueCats ISHIKAWA KAHOKU)
MUFG Award: As a contribution to promoting the charms of the Noto region and supporting its post-disaster recovery, fresh and delicious vegetables from Noto were presented.

NEO AWARD (MIP)
Mei Matsuoka (TEAM NICHIKA, Toray Arrows Shiga)
NEO AWARD: As part of the tournament's side event "NEO AWARD," students proposed ideas for the recovery of Hokuriku, and metal paperweights inspired by Noto stones were presented.


Head Coach Comments

TEAM NICHIKA
Mayumi Saito, Head Coach for GUNMA GREENWINGS

"Thank you very much for today. I am truly delighted to have spent such a wonderful time. With the slogan 'Together with Noto,' our players did their utmost to bring courage to those working towards recovery. I also want to extend my sincere gratitude to the staff who prepared for this event. I look forward to the day when we can meet again with smiles on our faces."

Takayuki Kaneko, Head Coach for NEC RED ROCKETS KAWASAKI

"I would like to express my sincere appreciation to MUFG, the main sponsor of this event, and to all those involved. I believe our players gave their all. I hope this event sparks greater interest in volleyball among many people. We will together with Noto and face each day with dedication. Thank you for today."

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended the match in person, as well as those who watched via live broadcast and streaming.

Please look forward to tomorrow's MUFG SV.LEAGUE ALL STAR GAMES 2024-25 ISHIKAWA MEN, which will commence at 15:05.