Tomohiro Yamamoto (volleyball)

1.1. Early Life and Volleyball Start

Tomohiro Yamamoto was born on November 5, 1994, in Ebetsu, Hokkaido, Japan. His interest in volleyball began early, largely influenced by his older brother, prompting him to start playing in the first grade of elementary school. Further cultivating this passion, his father was a middle school teacher who also served as an advisor for the school's volleyball club, providing a familial environment conducive to his athletic development.

1.2. Education

Yamamoto attended Eniwa Municipal Eniwa Junior High School in Hokkaido. Following his junior high education, he enrolled at Towa no Mori Sanai High School. His academic and athletic journey continued at Nippon Sport Science University, a well-regarded institution for sports education in Japan. He pursued volleyball throughout these educational stages, laying the foundation for his professional career.

2.1. FC Tokyo

Yamamoto began his professional journey by joining FC Tokyo as a prospective player in December 2016. During the 2017-18 season with the club, he faced significant challenges balancing his professional volleyball commitments with his work obligations. This struggle reportedly limited his playing time and prevented him from performing as consistently as he might have hoped. After only one season, he departed from FC Tokyo in 2018.

2.2. Osaka Blazers Sakai

Following his departure from FC Tokyo, Yamamoto transferred to Osaka Blazers Sakai (then known as Sakai Blazers) in 2018. This move proved to be a turning point in his club career. He quickly established himself as a regular starter, playing in every set during the V.League regular round of the 2018-19 season. He became an integral part of the team's defense and continued to play for Osaka Blazers Sakai for five seasons, departing on May 31, 2023.

2.3. Panasonic Panthers

In July 2023, Tomohiro Yamamoto made a significant move to the Panasonic Panthers, one of Japan's most successful volleyball clubs. He currently plays as a libero for the team, continuing his contributions to the V.League.

3.1. Early National Team Selection

Yamamoto was first selected for the Japan men's national volleyball team in 2019, marking his debut on the international stage. Prior to this, he had already gained significant international experience. In August 2017, he participated as a member of the Japan Universiade team at the 29th Summer Universiade in Taipei. In this tournament, he played a crucial role in helping the team secure a bronze medal, providing an early highlight in his international career.

3.2. Major International Tournaments

Yamamoto has represented Japan in several major international tournaments, showcasing his skills as a libero.

4.1. Team Medals

• FIVB Nations League
  • Silver: 2024 Łódź
  • Bronze: 2023 Gdańsk
• Asian Championship
  • Gold: 2023 Urmia
  • Silver: 2021 Chiba/Funabashi
  • Bronze: 2019 Tehran
• Asian Cup
  • Bronze: 2016 Nakhon Pathom
• Universiade
  • Bronze: 2017 Taipei

4.2. Individual Awards

• 2019 Asian Men's Volleyball Championship — Best Libero
• 2023-24 V.LEAGUE DIVISION1 MEN Best Libero Award
• 2024 FIVB Nations League — Best Libero