【Tokyo Great Bears】Announcement of Head Coach Kasper Vuorinen's Retirement

We hereby announce that Head Coach Kasper Vuorinen will be stepping down due to the expiration of his contract.

Coach Kasper, with his fast-paced volleyball, solid coaching philosophy, and positive, open communication skills, led the Tokyo Great Bears for three seasons, guiding the club to its first championship appearance and a new stage.

We express our sincere gratitude for all the support and encouragement extended to Coach Kasper thus far.

Kasper Vuorinen Head Coach Profile

【Date of Birth】April 22, 1984 (42 years old)

【Nationality】Finland

【Career History】

2019-20 Raision Loimu Head Coach (Finland)

2020-21 Wolfdogs Nagoya Assistant Coach

2021 Finland Women's National Team Assistant Coach

2021-23 Incheon Korean Air Jumbos Assistant Coach (South Korea)

2023-2026 Tokyo Great Bears Head Coach

Comment from Head Coach Kasper Vuorinen

First of all, I want to express my sincere gratitude to all the fans who supported us throughout this season. The three seasons I spent with this club have been very special and irreplaceable to me.

When I first joined Greatbears, I was strongly attracted by the club's great potential and strong will for growth. And I feel that together with everyone, we were able to get one step closer to the "Volleyball Dream." The growth of young players, the presence of veteran players, and the experience with players from diverse backgrounds became a great asset for both the team and myself. Also, the growth of the staff was very impressive, and I truly feel that this club is nurturing talent that will support future Japanese volleyball. I have always valued open communication, healthy competition, and being open to new ideas and skills. I believe that everyone involved in the club's history has the desire to "pass on the pink uniform in a better state," and I feel that we have fulfilled that responsibility.

I am sincerely grateful for the unwavering support of all Lilbears. Your presence was a great support for both the team and me. I am proud to have built a special connection through our playing style, team individuality, and passion for volleyball. I have always wanted us to be an attractive team, both for those who play and those who watch, as volleyball can be the best form of entertainment.

I would also like to thank my wife for supporting my styling during matches. It was a great joy for me to connect with the fans in a new way through fashion.

My experiences with Greatbears, the club, the community, and in Tokyo will continue to be an important part of my volleyball life. Sports, like life, have various phases, but I believe that with courage, strong will, and effort, a good future will surely follow. I express my sincere gratitude to the club, players, staff, owners, sponsors, and all the fans who gave me this experience. Thank you very much.

First of all, I want to thank all the fans for the support during this season! I spent 3 memorable seasons in this club and I want to say something about this our time together.

When I joined Greatbears, I was inspired by club's potential and dedication for growth. We managed to get a little closer to volleyball dream together. I'm happy to have been part of the rise of many young talents, collaboration with veteran players and experience with many foreign players. I want to mention also the growth of our staff members. Greatbears has produced a lot of great talent.