Karasuno's Mangers: Little Ukai and The Runaway

9: Monthly Volleyball Magazine Said So

GREATEST UPSET!!

STAR SETTER WILL NOT HAVE A FUTURE IN PROFESSIONAL VOLLEYBALL

Written by Aito Takahashi

January 17th 2011

Sisters Ando are a sight for sore eyes, but every opponent knows just how deadly they are on the court. The twin sisters have been playing volleyball since the age of five. In 2008 both represented the city of Yokohama in the All-Japan Tournament for Under 10! Winning gold and scoring first place in the entire country.

Family problems caused the sisters to separate and play on different school teams. Rather than becoming weak from this loss of support, the sisters have grown stronger as they challenge each other on opposite sides of the net.

Rina Ando, a powerful and cunning wing spiker, is a force to be reckoned with in mid-air combat.

Mirae Ando, an ingenious and hyper-aware setter whose very presence on the court is detrimental to her opponent's morale.

This year, Komoi Junior High played its first game without the Star Setter at the city finals. They lost in straight sets 18:25, 14:25, and 21:25. Her teammates refused to comment.

"Mirae fractured her knee setting the ball in the semi-finals. She led our team to the finals but was unable to play," her coach explained to reporters. "It's a shame, really. She practiced the hardest and was always willing to help her teammates."

Spectators, fans, Coaches, and recruitment officials were all shocked to hear Mirae Ando's decision to abandon volleyball forever.

"We would have loved to have Mirae Ando at Hisamitsu High School," Coach Adachi stated. "We're the strongest team here in Tokyo City and have the greatest opportunities for students who wish to play on international teams. Ando has already gained national attention, so it's a shame given her decision."

Coach Kikata from Osaka region also gave her two cents. "Athletes get hurt and fracture their bones all the time. To leave the sport altogether because of a small injury seems a bit dramatic."

Mirae Ando revealed her decision after her team lost at the city finals, choosing instead to experience a normal high school career. She listed her interests in health sciences, food and nutrition.

We reached out to Rina Ando for her comments. The Ace spiker seems optimistic.

"My sister's strong, ya' know? She's just takin' some time off, tryin' out new things. She'll come back, and when she does, the world had better be ready!"

Mirae Ando's injury may have played a big part in her decision to quit volleyball, but sources reveal that her mother has been experiencing health problems and was recently admitted to the hospital for intensive care.

It's too soon to know for sure, but one thing is for certain: Japan awaits the return of Mirae Ando.

What do you think? Vote on the poll below! Will or will not she have a professional career in volleyball?"

8.4k vote yes

6.6k vote no

Emiko turned to Tsukishima and declared, "I vote yes."

"Did you read this article," he rolled his eyes, "realistically no."