The Japan Hockey League (HJL) has officially welcomed two new teams, GIFU ASAHI BLUE BEES and Arcadia Nara, into their ranks for the upcoming 2025 season. This expansion marks an exciting development in the league, which is set to enhance the competitive landscape of ladies' hockey in Japan.
GIFU ASAHI BLUE BEES
Founded in April 2017, the GIFU ASAHI BLUE BEES emerged as a women's hockey team under the auspices of the Gifu Asahi Club. The transition to a strengthened team comes with a vision of prosperity, encapsulated in their motto: "From Gifu to Japan, from Japan to the World." Stakeholders aim to create an organization that rivals the men's teams and advocates for significant player development and community interaction. The team symbolizes happiness, as the name "BLUE BEES" refers to bees known for bringing joy. They are committed to fostering a presence that delivers happiness to everyone involved.
The team's new logo reflects this ethos, using blue as its main color, and the uniforms showcase their identity. The first uniform features blue for field players and black for goalkeepers, while the second uniform showcases a vibrant red for players and yellow for goalkeepers. Team director Miura Keiko and head coach Fuji Tatsunori express gratitude for the opportunity to compete in the top league and aspire to create a team that brings happiness to spectators.
Arcadia Nara
Drawing inspiration from the ancient poem of Yamato Takeru, Arcadia Nara’s team name represents the idea of a 'beautiful place' or an 'ideal region.' The region of Arcadia was historically regarded as a paradise and the home of shepherds in ancient Greece, which resonates with the team’s aspirations. They aim to build an ideal hockey team that fulfills the dreams of players, staff, and fans alike. The new logo, complemented by a main color of purple, symbolizes their identity and goals.
The team’s uniforms also reflect their ambition: the first features purple and black for players with yellow for goalkeepers, while the second is characterized by vibrant greens with blue for goalkeepers. Head coach Ana Katsuhiko expresses pride in joining the Samurais League and aims to leverage the youthfulness and potential within the team to develop players.
As both GIFU ASAHI BLUE BEES and Arcadia Nara step onto the national stage, they are determined not only to compete but also to engage fans and communities in their journey towards greatness. The HJL looks forward to the contributions these new teams will make, fostering relationships and inspiring younger generations in the sport, all while striving for excellence.
The coming season promises a thrilling blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing the potential of the Japanese hockey landscape on an elevated platform. Both teams represent a beacon of hope for aspiring players across Japan, with solid foundations built on community involvement and a commitment to enriching the sport.