It starts with a single spark. For some people, it’s a smart tactical play or a dramatic, diving save. But for me? It was Yuji Nishida. Specifically, those thunderous, physics-defying service aces that fueled Japan’s insane comeback against Canada in the 2019 FIVB World Cup.

Watching him launch into the air and paint the lines with absolute rockets completely rewired my brain. Right then and there, I was officially addicted to the ace.

From that moment on, volleyball ceased to be just a sport on a screen; it became an absolute lifestyle.

The Evolution of My Obsession

My deep dive into the volleyball world wasn’t something I did alone. When my niece suggested I watch Haikyu!!, the anime poured gasoline on an already burning fire. Seeing the passion, the strategy, and the crazy emotional highs of the game animated so beautifully changed everything. It gave me a whole new appreciation for what happens on a real-life court.

Before I knew it, I wasn’t just watching clips online. I needed to experience the real thing live:

The Japanese Powerhouse:

Fast forward to June 21, 2024, and I found myself inside the MOA Arena, watching Ryujin Nippon live in the Philippines. It was my first time seeing Japan play, and they were facing the Netherlands.

The energy in the stadium was electric. I was totally mesmerized by Japan’s flawless floor defense and explosive offense, especially since they were going up against an absolute powerhouse like Nimir Abdel-Aziz. Watching them absorb his rockets and turn them into textbook counter-attacks completely blew my mind.

The Club Crossover:

I followed Nishida’s journey even closer after that, eventually watching him play live with the Panasonic Panthers during their friendship matches against our very own Alas Pilipinas on September 8, 2024.

Beyond the men’s matches, I was equally mesmerized watching the Japan Women’s Team take on our Alas Women during the tournament.

But the absolute peak of following his career happened just recently during the SV.League Championship. Captain Nishida led the rebranded Osaka Bluteon to the ultimate title, and in true, mind-rewiring fashion, he scored the literal final match point with a blazing service ace. I was screaming at my screen – it was the perfect throwback to the moment that hooked me in the first place.

Local Greatness:

My passion for volleyball hits close to home, too. I got to witness local history firsthand on September 12, 2024, cheering in the crowd at the PVL Invitational Conference as the Creamline Cool Smashers secured their historic Grand Slam. Watching them battle it out against the Cignal HD Spikers in that thrilling five-set match was absolutely unforgettable

The World Stage:

When the FIVB Men’s World Championship took over Manila from September 12 to 28, 2025, I was completely starstruck. Seeing that level of elite, world-class volleyball played on our home soil left me in absolute awe.

I’ll admit, it was a bit heartbreaking that Yuji Nishida wasn’t in the Japan lineup, and it was a massive disappointment when the team failed to make it past the elimination round.

However, the tournament still delivered. To top it all off, I actually got to watch the epic championship match live, screaming from the stands as Italy secured the world championship title.

Signs of a True Volleyball Addict

You know an interest has turned into a full-blown addiction when it starts dictating your weekend plans, your bank account, and your travel itineraries.

If you looked at my life right now, the symptoms are undeniable:

The Merch Pile:

The View from the Floor:

Bleacher seats just don’t cut it anymore. It’s Courtside or Patron tickets, or bust.

The Volleyball Staycations:

Game days have turned into luxury experiences. If the match is at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, you’ll find me booking a room at Ibis Hotel. If the action moves to the SM Mall of Asia Arena, it’s a dedicated stay at either Conrad Manila or Lanson Place Mall of Asia.

A Breakfast with the Voices of VBTV

Perhaps the peak of this incredible journey happened during the World Championship in Manila. Staying at Lanson Place turned out to be the ultimate volleyball fan jackpot.

Not only were we living and breathing the championship atmosphere, but we actually ended up sharing the breakfast buffet with the official VBTV commentators! Getting to personally meet and see them over morning coffee with the very voices that narrate the sport globally was a surreal, “pinch-me” moment.

Nishida is Back

Nishida has re-established himself as one of the most explosive opposites in international volleyball. And he is playing like a man possessed!

• 1,000+ VNL Points and 100+ Career Aces officially unlocked.

• Signature high-flying spikes and booming jump serves are anchoring Japan’s unstoppable attack alongside Yuki Ishikawa and Ran Takahashi.

Perfect 12–0 Standing

Japan just did what no men’s team in VNL history has done before: a completely undefeated preliminary round.

From dominating top seeds to pulling off dramatic reverse-sweeps, Team Japan isn’t just winning; they’re proving they are the most resilient squad on the planet.

Japan now heads into the Finals in Ningbo, China as the top-seeded team and clear title contenders. Hope Nishida and the team keep the rhythm and energy rolling so the VNL 2026 Gold will finally be theirs!

Sadly, Japan’s winning streak didn’t last long. They did not even won a medal this year. But they fought hard until the end, so nothing to be ashamed of. Hoping for a better run next year.

“And Still…”: Poland Claims VNL Gold Once Again

Going back to this year’s VNL, no doubt Poland will get a back-to-back. Even if USA gave them a hard fight, their teamwork worked in the end, proving once again why they sit at the absolute top of world volleyball. USA threw everything they had at them, but Poland’s ability to stay connected, make clutch defensive reads, and trust each other in the long rallies ultimately sealed the crown.

Watching Poland live at the World Championship was an absolute treat, and their coach’s cool composure on the sidelines made it even better.

And the 2026 VNL Men’s Volleyball MVP is………..

Tomasz Fornal

Despite the heartbreak of Japan leaving without a medal, Fornal’s well-deserved MVP crown gave the tournament a happy ending for me. He’s the Polish league’s equivalent to Nishida—both are just so much fun to watch and bring that same playful, high-energy vibe on and off the court.

What started as watching a Japanese lefty dominate the service line has evolved into an incredible community of fans, unforgettable live matches, and memories that I’ll cherish forever.

Wishing Team Japan great success in the Continental Championship this September 2026.