From Kawasaki to Gwangju: Shimamura Haruyo’s Next Big Move

By Zhang Jiuzhou (Julius)

Originally looking to strengthen their attack and height at the net following the departure of Chinese star Zhang Yu, the AI Peppers used their No. 1 Asian draft pick to select Australian outside hitter Stefanie Weiler. However, hopes were dashed when Weiler recently suffered a torn Achilles tendon, ruling her out for the upcoming season. In response, Head Coach Chang So-yun moved swiftly to bring in Shimamura Haruyo, whose experience and consistency are expected to stabilize the Peppers’ most vulnerable position: middle blocker.

Born in Kanagawa, Japan, on March 4, 1992, Shimamura graduated from high school in 2010 and immediately joined NEC Red Rockets Kawasaki, where she had remained a core player. She made her debut for the Japanese national team in 2013, appearing at that year’s Montreux Volley Masters and earning a bronze medal at the inaugural U23 World Championship. Since then, she has competed in the 2015 World Cup, the 2016 Rio Olympics, the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, and the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, where she won a silver medal.

In the 2024–25 SV.League season, Shimamura remained a pivotal force for the Red Rockets, ranking third in the league in attack efficiency. Her standout campaign earned her Best Middle Blocker and Fair Play Award honors, as well as a place on the 2025 Japan national team for the upcoming Volleyball Nations League.

Shimamura had previously expressed interest in playing in Korea, having scrimmaged against the AI Peppers in a preseason match last year. At that time, she praised the club’s preparation and team spirit. Despite being over 30, an age at which physical decline is often discussed in elite sports, Shimamura is expected to maintain her form due to her continued presence on the national team and her sharp game-reading skills.

While she stands at 182 cm – relatively short by modern middle blocker standards – Shimamura’s success has come from her precise timing, quick footwork, and strong coordination with setters.

With Shimamura stepping in, the Peppers are hopeful of finding greater balance in attack and defense. GS Caltex Assistant Coach Abo Kiyoshi, who previously selected Shimamura for the Japanese national team, expressed confidence in her upcoming KOVO debut: “I believe Shimamura will excel in the Korean league. Her leadership, skill, and experience will bring great value to the AI Peppers.”

As the team looks to climb from the bottom of the standings, the addition of Shimamura may provide the stability and veteran presence needed to help the youthful Peppers roster take the next step.