Kurashiki Ablaze withdraws from PVL Invitationals after coach’s compliance issue

Japanese club Kurashiki Ablaze has officially withdrawn from the 2025 PVL Invitational after its head coach, Hideo Suzuki, was reported to have committed a “serious compliance violation,” prompting the team to halt all activities pending investigation.

“We regret to inform you that we received a notice from the Japan Volleyball League indicating that our head coach, Hideo Suzuki, may have committed a serious compliance violation,” said team representative director Daisuke Watanabe.

“In response to this notification, our team has decided to immediately commence an internal investigation and suspend all activities until the details of the incident are fully clarified.”

The development forced the 2023 Invitational champions to give up their slot in this year’s six-team tournament.

“It is with great regret that we must inform you of our decision to withdraw from participating in the PVL Invitational. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this sudden decision, made so close to the start of the tournament, may cause to all parties involved,” Watanabe added.

Kurashiki’s sudden exit opened the door for a replacement team. While Farm Fresh Foxies, who placed fifth in the PVL On Tour, were first in line, team owner Frank Lao declined the invitation citing an incomplete roster and lack of preparation time. 

This paved the way for the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles, the sixth-placers from the same conference, to fill the vacant spot.

With the adjustment, Kobe Shinwa University of Japan will now serve as the lone foreign squad in the Invitational. 

The 2017 PSL Invitational champions will compete against local contenders ZUS Coffee, PLDT, Chery Tiggo, Cignal, and defending Invitational champions Creamline in the 10-day tilt.

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