The influence anime has had on sports engagement and participation is something not often recognised, but nonetheless extremely intriguing. There are several sports anime, however, most noteworthy to CVC and its core values is the anime, Haikyu!! written by Haruichi Furudate and produced by Production I.G and Toho.

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What is Haikyu!!?

Haikyu!! is an anime centred around high school volleyball. The story follows Shoyo Hinata, a determined and short-statured player who aspires to become a great volleyball player despite his height. He joins Karasuno High School's volleyball team and forms a dynamic duo with Tobio Kageyama, a talented setter with a reputation for being a "king." Together, they aim to take Karasuno back to its former glory as a powerhouse in the sport by competing against formidable opponents and teams in exhilarating matches filled with teamwork, rivalry, and personal growth.

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Teamwork and Camaraderie

One of the central themes of Haikyu!! is the importance of teamwork and camaraderie. The protagonists, Hinata and Kageyama, showcase the transformative power of collaboration on and off the court. Younger teens are at an age where social dynamics in media play a crucial role in their development. Haikyu!! showcases Karasuno player’s ability to overcome differences and work together towards a common goal. This emphasis on teamwork fosters a sense of unity and belonging among viewers, encouraging them to value the importance of collaboration in their lives. This is an integral cultural value CVC aims to fosters in all members.

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Determination and Perseverance

Furthermore, Haikyu!! is a testament to the power of determination and perseverance. The characters face numerous challenges and setbacks throughout their journey, yet they continue to strive for improvement. This resonates with younger teens who are navigating the challenges of adolescence, social pressures, and personal growth. The anime instills in them the idea that setbacks are not failures, but opportunities to learn and grow. The relentless pursuit of improvement becomes a motivating factor for young viewers to face their own challenges with resilience.

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Diversity

A celebration of diversity by featuring characters with different backgrounds, personalities, and playing styles. CVC pursues this ideal in all aspects both on and off court. The inclusive nature of the series promotes acceptance and understanding among younger audiences. Youth, who may be navigating their identities and friendships, find a diverse cast of characters to relate to. This diversity not only reflects the real-world but also sends a positive message about embracing differences and working harmoniously with individuals from various backgrounds.

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Balancing Study and Sport

While the characters in Haikyu!! are passionate about volleyball, the series also emphasises the importance of balancing one's passion with the realities of life. Younger teens, often grappling with academic pressures and future uncertainties, appreciate the nuanced portrayal of characters managing their academic responsibilities alongside their passion for sports. This theme encourages viewers to pursue their interests while being mindful of their overall wellbeing and responsibilities.

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The Influence of Haikyu!!

Haikyu!! has sparked an interest in volleyball among its viewers, inspiring many to take up the sport. Many members in CVC were heavily inspired by characters depicted in Haikyu!! and have pursued a competitive route as a result of their engagement with the anime. Here is what our very own secretary, Kristelle Thomson, had to say:

"After almost a decade of involvement in the sport, I can proudly say that watching Haikyu!! in my youth greatly motivated me to trial for teams outside of school sports and even contributed to my eventual experience playing overseas in the Philippines. It helped me solidify my goals as an athlete and was media I could relate to strongly," she said.

The energetic and dynamic depiction of matches serves as a catalyst for physical activity, encouraging teens to engage in sports and lead a healthy lifestyle. The anime's portrayal of the joy and fulfilment derived from physical activity has motivated young audiences to explore volleyball beyond the screen.

In the realm of anime, Haikyu!! stands out not just as a captivating sports series but as a source of inspiration for the youth. Its impact goes beyond entertainment, influencing the way people perceive teamwork, perseverance, diversity, and the balance between passion and reality. As Haikyu!! continues to spike its way into the hearts of viewers, its positive influence on the younger generation remains undeniable, leaving a lasting legacy of camaraderie, determination, and inspiration.