Naonobu Fujii, a former member of the Japan men’s national volleyball team and Toray Arrows, passed away on March 10, 2023, at the age of 31. He was diagnosed with stage IV stomach cancer that had spread to his brain in February 2022. His death shocked and saddened the volleyball community, who paid tribute to his legacy and achievements.
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A Promising Career Cut Short by Cancer
Fujii was born on January 5, 1992, in Miyagi, Japan. He started playing volleyball at Furukawa Industrial High School, a school known for its volleyball team. He continued his passion for the sport at Juntendo University, where he excelled as a setter. He joined the Toray Arrows club in 2014 and became their captain and main setter. He also represented Japan in several international competitions, including the Asian Championship, where he won gold in 2017, bronze in 2019, and silver in 2021. He was also named the best setter of the 2017 edition. He made his Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, where Japan finished seventh.
Fujii’s career was abruptly interrupted by a devastating diagnosis of stomach cancer that had metastasized to his brain. He revealed his condition on his Instagram account on February 27, 2022, saying that he had experienced sore eyes after a game and decided to undergo a medical examination. He wrote that he was determined to fight the disease and thanked his fans for their support. However, despite undergoing treatment, he succumbed to cancer on March 10, 2023.
A Resilient Spirit and a Loving Family
Fujii’s death was not the first tragedy that he had faced in his life. His family home was swept away by the tsunami caused by the Tohoku earthquake in 2011. His father also lost his job due to the disaster. Fujii considered giving up his volleyball dream, but his family encouraged him to pursue it. He overcame the adversity and became one of the best setters in Japan.
Fujii also found love and happiness in his personal life. In September 2021, he announced that he had married Miya Sato, who was also a setter for the Japan women’s national volleyball team and Hitachi Rivale club. The couple shared their joy and gratitude on social media.
A Legacy of Inspiration and Excellence
Fujii’s death was mourned by his teammates, opponents, fans, and the entire volleyball community. The Japan Volleyball Association (JVA) issued a statement expressing their condolences to his family and praising his contributions to the sport. The Toray Arrows club also released a message honoring their captain and friend. Many players and coaches from Japan and other countries shared their memories and tributes to Fujii on social media, highlighting his skills, leadership, personality, and spirit.
Fujii will be remembered as one of the best setters in Japanese volleyball history, as well as a resilient and inspiring person who faced challenges with courage and optimism. He left behind a legacy of excellence and passion that will inspire generations of volleyball players and fans. Rest in peace, Naonobu Fujii.
