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Sports-themed anime is a highly popular genre. In the article below, we will compile a list of the top 10 volleyball anime series that are must-watch for fans.
1. Haikyuu!!
The first anime series on our list is Haikyuu!!. The story centers around Hinata Shoyo, a young volleyball prodigy full of passion and energy for the sport. Despite his relatively short height, which isn’t ideal for volleyball, Hinata relentlessly trains to improve his skills in order to join the Karasuno High School volleyball team. Here, he meets Kageyama Tobio, the team captain, who has an entirely different personality but shares immense talent. Together, they form a powerful duo and engage in thrilling matches to conquer national tournaments.
One of the most distinctive elements of the anime series 'Haikyuu!!' is the deep respect and love the characters have for the sport of volleyball. This captivating anime beautifully conveys the message of passion, sportsmanship, and an unwavering fighting spirit. The characters, along with the volleyball teams, are not simply playing for personal ambitions but for the joy and excitement that the sport brings. This creates a positive atmosphere and inspires viewers with its energy and enthusiasm.
2. 2.43: Seiin Koukou Danshi Volley-bu
The story of the anime '2.43: Seiin Koukou Danshi Volley-bu' centers around two young men, Haiji Kiyose and Kimichika Haijima. Haiji is known as an exceptional former volleyball player, while Kimichika had given up the sport after an unfortunate incident. Haiji decides to revive the volleyball team at Seiin High School and invites Kimichika to rejoin the sport. Together, they strive to build a strong volleyball team, facing personal challenges and tough opponents throughout the team's development.
Both Haiji and Kimichika face numerous personal struggles, honing their skills and learning to trust themselves and their teammates. Through setbacks and triumphs, they gradually learn how to break through their limits and mature not just in volleyball but also in their everyday lives.
A unique aspect of the anime '2.43: Seiin Koukou Danshi Volley-bu' is its focus on psychological elements and the relationships between the characters. Both Haiji and Kimichika carry emotional burdens and confront their painful pasts. Through mutual support and interactions, they learn to overcome their personal issues, building a strong team spirit and forging a deep and meaningful friendship.
3. Ashita e Attack
The anime 'Ashita e Attack' was released in 1977 to honor the greatest women’s volleyball team in Japan’s history, who won the gold medal at the 1976 Olympic Games. While based on real events, this anime remains an engaging and worthwhile watch. The story follows the protagonist Mimi Hijiiri as she assembles her team and pushes them to overcome challenges to build a unified, powerful squad. Even after the tragic death of a team member, the rest of the team continues to train tirelessly. Their efforts lead them to the National High School Volleyball Championship, where they eventually claim victory. Though the animation quality may seem dated due to its age, the series remains a must-see.
4. Harukana Receive
The main storyline of the anime "Harukana Receive" follows two girls, Haruka Ozora and Kanata Higa, who are a pair of beach volleyball players. Haruka is introduced as a tall, cheerful girl, while Kanata is smaller in stature and struggles with low self-confidence due to her height. The two girls work together to train and participate in various tournaments, aiming to improve their skills and fulfill their dreams in the world of beach volleyball.
A standout feature of the anime "Harukana Receive" is its portrayal of the beauty and allure of beaches and sunshine. The anime beautifully captures the cool, refreshing seaside and the joy of playing volleyball on golden sands. The vibrant, bright visuals, along with the perfectly matched music, create a relaxing and captivating atmosphere. If you love beach volleyball and a meaningful story about friendship, "Harukana Receive" is a great choice.
5. Attacker You!
Similar to the anime "Ashita e Attack", "Attacker You!" is considered a classic treasure in the volleyball anime genre. Released in 1984, the animation may not be highly regarded for its visuals. However, the strength of this series lies in its compelling storyline, which has been well-received by many and continues to provide entertainment to its audience.
Attacker You! follows the story of You Hazuki, a 13-year-old girl with a deep passion for volleyball. She lives in Tokyo with her father and younger brother. Hazuki's mother passed away when she was very young, and her father, who works in the film industry, has only recently returned to Japan. Hazuki relentlessly practices to fulfill her dream of becoming the best volleyball player in Japan.
6. Shoujo Fight: Norainu-tachi no Odekake
If you’re looking to explore volleyball through anime, "Shoujo Fight: Norainu-tachi no Odekake" is an excellent choice. The main character of this anime is Neri Ooishi, a highly talented volleyball player.
Neri is the captain of her school’s volleyball team and has even won second place in a national tournament. However, she goes to great lengths to hide her true abilities, not wanting others to know how skilled she is at volleyball. What is the deeper reason behind Neri’s decision to keep her talent a secret?
7. Attack No.1
Attack No.1 (also known as Atakku Nanba Wan) is recognized as the first volleyball anime, released in 1969. The series has been praised for its in-depth exploration of success in the world of sports and for portraying the growth and development of the main characters throughout the show.
The anime follows a junior high school girl named Kozue Ayuhara, who dreams of one day playing for the national volleyball team. Viewers watch as she transforms from a complete beginner into a volleyball legend by the end of the series. "Attack No.1" perfectly captures the ups and downs of Kozue's journey to the peak of her career, where she constantly faces the darker sides of the sport, such as high expectations and personal sacrifices, all of which are intertwined with the success she ultimately achieves.
8. Zoku Attacker You! Kin Medal e no Michi
In reality, the life of a girl is often more complicated than that of a boy. They have to work harder than anyone else to achieve their dreams. While this may not apply to everyone, You Hazuki and her volleyball team face numerous challenges and difficulties in their pursuit of success. This is a story about young, talented girls with a goal in their eyes: to become the best, with each day presenting a new challenge to overcome. The characters confront many issues related to family, relationships, and the fierce competition in volleyball, which adds a fun element to the anime.
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the Top 10 Best Volleyball Anime. Have a great day!
