※本記事にはプロモーションが含まれています。
*This article was last updated on July 7, 2025.
What You’ll Learn from This Article
- The changing role of the “ace” in Japanese women’s volleyball
- Distinct playing styles and strengths of Saori Kimura, Sarina Koga, and Ayane Kitamado
- Key career milestones: debut age, high school, professional paths
- Why Ayane Kitamado is the rising star to watch
- Evaluation of Misora Akimoto as another next-generation Middle Opposite (MO)
- What the future holds for Japanese women’s volleyball beyond 2025
In the history of Japanese women’s volleyball, each generation has had its symbolic “ace”—a player who embodies the spirit of the team and leads it forward.
From Saori Kimura, the towering presence of the 2000s, to Sarina Koga, who defined the 2020s, and now to the new hope Ayane Kitamado, the torch is steadily passed on.
Though volleyball is a team sport, the “ace” stands out. They influence the game plan, uplift the team’s morale, and capture the audience’s attention. This article explores how these three players shaped the role of the ace—and what the future might hold.
The Multi-Talented Legacy of Saori Kimura
Who is Saori Kimura?
Standing nearly 190 cm tall with a fluid playing style, Saori Kimura debuted for the national team in 2003. Her contributions, including a bronze medal in the London Olympics, were unforgettable—not just for her skill but for her ever-present smile and supportive presence on court.
Her Style and Leadership
- Powerful spikes using her height and flexibility
- Well-rounded skills: offense, defense, serving
- A cheerful anchor who lifted team spirit
- Humble enough to shine in the background
Kimura’s influence went beyond the scoreboard—she was both a technician and a mood-maker.
The Quiet Strength of Sarina Koga
Her Journey
Rising from Kumamoto Shin-Ai Girls’ High School to NEC Red Rockets, Koga made the national team at just 18. As captain during the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, she led with calm authority.
Her Ace Identity
- High jump and precision spiking
- Emotionally steady and introverted leadership
- Exceptional in defense—especially digs and receives
- The quiet workhorse who holds the team together
Her composed performance during the Asian Championships especially stood out—an anchor against tougher opponents.
Related Books Worth Reading
- 📘 No Regrets: A Book for Anyone at a Crossroads (Kindle & Print)
- 📕 SAORI KIMURA: 232 Days in Turkey (Photo Book)
The Evolution of the Ace: Ayane Kitamado
The New Star from Hisamitsu Springs
After graduating from Seiei High School, a volleyball powerhouse in Yamaguchi, Kitamado joined Hisamitsu Springs. In 2025, she debuted for the national team—scoring 10 points off the bench in a Nations League match against China.
Her Strengths
- High-point spikes from her 182 cm frame
- Diverse attacks using her flexible wrists
- High-level blocking, receiving, and serving
- Fearless mindset—”All I could do was attack,” she said post-match
Kitamado is a fusion of Kimura’s flash and Koga’s stability—a new-generation, well-rounded ace.
Career Path Comparison
How They Started
| Player | High School | Pro Team | Debut Age | Traits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saori Kimura | Seitoku Gakuen HS (Tokyo) | Toray Arrows | 17 (still in HS) | Charisma, height, presence |
| Sarina Koga | Kumamoto Shin-Ai Girls’ HS | NEC Red Rockets | 18 (post-HS) | Stability, composure, connector |
| Ayane Kitamado | Seiei HS (Yamaguchi) | Hisamitsu Springs | 21 (3rd year as pro) | Offense, nerve, evolved ace |
Shared DNA: What Makes a True “Ace”
Despite their differences, these three women share a common quality: they don’t just shine individually—they elevate their teams.
- Kimura: The charismatic motivator
- Koga: The calm commander
- Kitamado: The mentally strong all-rounder
The definition of an “ace” has evolved, but the inner strength remains the same.
Looking Ahead: Kitamado and the Next Era
Kitamado carries the best of both her predecessors: height, composure, boldness. As we look to the 2026 World Championships and 2028 LA Olympics, she may very well be Japan’s face on the global stage.
In a time when teams rely less on one star, her reliability may become her greatest value.
Rising With Her: Misora Akimoto
Another name to watch is Misora Akimoto, who like Kitamado, is gaining traction. Known for her height, precision blocks, and calm demeanor, she’s seen as a future Middle Opposite (MO) powerhouse.
Both players are technically gifted and mentally resilient—a dual force for the future of Japan’s volleyball.
Final Thoughts
Kimura. Koga. Kitamado. Each a proud ace in her own right. Each carrying the legacy forward in her own way.
Next time you watch Japan’s national team, keep an eye on Kitamado. Watch how passion, evolution, and quiet strength are passed down, spike by spike.
Good luck, Ayane Kitamado—we’ll be cheering for you!
Does your country also have a legacy of volleyball aces passed down through generations? Tell us in the comments—we’d love to know!
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