In just their second stint at the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), the Kurashiki Ablaze clinched a well-earned bronze, but it wasn’t just the victory that stood out—it was the remarkable improvement of the Filipino teams that left a lasting impression.
The Japan V.League Division 3 champions finished third in the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference, putting on a masterful display as they swept Thailand’s Est Cola, 25-22, 26-24, 25-20, on a thrilling Thursday night at the SMART Araneta Coliseum. Yet, beyond their podium finish, the Ablaze faced significant challenges throughout the competition, a testament to the evolving strength of the local clubs.
A Tough Road to the Top
Kurashiki didn’t breeze through the conference; they fought tooth and nail in every match. The Ablaze closed the preliminary round with a 2-2 record, earning crucial wins over Farm Fresh and Est Cola. However, they fell short against two of the PVL’s powerhouses—Creamline and Cignal, both of whom now battle for the conference crown.
After their bronze-clinching match, head coach Hideo Suzuki, speaking through a translator, expressed his surprise at the level of play this year. The 2024 edition of the PVL had raised the bar far beyond what he had anticipated.
“I was shocked because the Filipino teams really leveled up this time,” Suzuki said. “They also have a lot of fans that may have affected our performance in some ways.”
Suzuki's remarks underscored the electrifying atmosphere of Filipino volleyball, where passionate fans fill the arenas, providing their local squads an emotional lift. But more than the fervent crowd support, it was the tactical evolution of these teams that stood out for Kurashiki.
Filipino Teams Adopting Japanese Style
Saki Tanabe, who spearheaded the Ablaze’s attack with 13 points and seven digs in their bronze match, echoed her coach’s observations. Tanabe, a seasoned player in Japan’s V.League, noted the stark contrast between last year’s PVL and this season’s, pointing out how much the local teams had adapted, making them more formidable opponents.
“Comparing our experience in the PVL this year to last year, the Filipino teams now use a lot more combination plays,” Tanabe shared. “It’s like they are playing with a Japanese style, which made it difficult for us.”
This adoption of the Japanese-style play, which focuses on quick combination plays and meticulous ball control, was especially evident in Farm Fresh, now coached by Shota Sato, a former assistant coach of Kurashiki. The influence of Japanese volleyball has permeated the PVL, as other teams like the HD Spikers and the Cool Smashers have incorporated similar systems into their strategies. This tactical growth has elevated the level of competition, making the PVL one of the most exciting leagues in Southeast Asia.
Beyond the Court: A Commitment to Giving Back
Kurashiki Ablaze's time in the Philippines wasn’t just about volleyball. The team also made an impact off the court, engaging in charitable activities to support underprivileged children in Metro Manila. One of their most meaningful efforts included a visit to Smokey Mountain, where the team spent time with local children, providing not only material aid but also moments of joy through volleyball clinics and bonding activities.
These acts of generosity reflect the team’s commitment to fostering goodwill and cultural exchange, further strengthening their ties to the Filipino community. For Kurashiki, their experience in the Philippines goes beyond competition; it’s also about making a positive impact.
Looking Ahead to Future PVL Stints
Kurashiki’s second appearance in the PVL solidified their status as one of the premier guest teams in the league. However, their journey this season was also a learning experience, and they are eager for a chance to return and build on what they’ve started.
“If there’s another chance next year to be invited here in the PVL, for sure we would want to join again,” Coach Suzuki said.
As the PVL continues to grow, attracting top-tier international teams like Kurashiki, it also serves as a proving ground for Filipino clubs, who are rapidly closing the gap between themselves and their international counterparts. The Ablaze’s bronze finish is not just a testament to their skill and resilience but also a marker of how far the PVL and its local squads have come in just a year.
With the league continuing to evolve, fans can only expect the competition to get fiercer, and teams like Kurashiki will be more prepared for the battles ahead.
