Filipino-Japanese middle blocker Yuma Onabe made a memorable entrance in the Philippines, embracing the opportunity to showcase his skills for guest team Kindai University in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference.
The 20-year-old quick hitter, whose mother hails from Dipolog City, said stepping onto Philippine soil as a competitor “felt like coming home,” despite spending virtually his entire life in Japan.
“It’s my first time playing volleyball in the Philippines, and it honestly felt like coming home,” Onabe told reporters through a translator.
While he had visited the country before, it was his first chance to actually compete on local courts — a milestone that has him beaming with excitement.
“I’ve been here before, but only as a visitor, never to play volleyball. Getting to compete here makes me really happy,” he added.
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Despite his youth, the 6-foot-2 middle blocker already brings a wealth of experience, having competed twice in Japan’s prestigious V.League.
He first suited up for the Nara Dreamers last season and now represents Kinki Club Sfida, continuing to hone his skills at the professional level.
Even with his exposure to one of Asia’s biggest leagues, Onabe has kept a close eye on Philippine men’s volleyball.
“Before this conference, I would watch Philippine teams’ games on YouTube,” he shared.
After sitting out Kindai’s opening-day win against ProVolley Academy of Australia, Onabe finally made his debut in front of Filipino fans on Saturday.
He contributed six points as the Japanese squad toppled the previously unbeaten Criss Cross in four sets, 25-22, 25-22, 19-25, 25-22, securing a 2-0 start in the Invitationals.
