Japan team captain Yuki Ishikawa expressed his awe at the enthusiastic support from the Filipino crowd in their match against Canada in the 2024 VNL Manila leg.
The Philippines may not have a local team in the 2024 Volleyball Nations League, but the Filipinos have undeniably found their darlings in the Japan men's national volleyball team.
A wave of enthusiastic Filipino support greeted the Japanese in their Week 3 opener against Canada at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Tuesday night, June 18.
Though Ryujin Nippon ultimately lost in five sets, team captain Yuki Ishikawa could not help but be in awe of the local crowd.
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“The crowd was amazing. We are so happy to play here again,” Ishikawa said.
“When we make points, the crowd cheers on us so we’re so happy and excited.”
This is Japan’s third consecutive VNL appearance in the country, and Ishikawa is looking at the Manila leg as a crucial part of their final preparations for the Paris Olympics.
So, it should not come as a surprise that the Japanese are focused on learning from their defeat against the Canadians and using these lessons to improve moving forward.
“We have two days off so [we can work on] some things to be better,” Ishikawa said as Japan will next face the Netherlands on Friday, June 21.
“Next match is important for us so we should focus on our things.”
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When asked if he had a message for the passionate Filipino fans, Ishikawa expressed gratitude and vowed that Japan would spare no effort in putting on a show.
“Thank you for supporting [us] and we will show our best volleyball,” he assured.