‘Nictest people in the world’ | Erik Shoji shows love to Filipino fans after USA’s first match in VNL Manila Leg

Erik Shoji had wanted to give Filipino fans a victory in their debut match in the 2024 VNL Manila Leg.

It wasn’t the debut Team USA had hoped for in the 2024 VNL Manila Leg.

The sixth-ranked Americans entered as favorites and were stunned by the fifteenth-ranked Iranians, falling in five sets, 28-26, 23-25, 18-25, 28-26, 13-15, in the Mall of Asia. Arena in Pasay City on Wednesday, June 19.

American libero Erik Shoji could not help but regret the loss against Iran as he wanted to win the opening match in Manila.

“I think we were obviously up and down. We wanted to win today and just be a little better and be a little sharper in our game,” Shoji told reporters after the match.

“Iran played very well. They always play well against us. It was a shame we lost it in the end,” he added.

Despite their loss, Shoji thanked the Filipino volleyball fans who came to watch the United States.

“We love them. It’s late at night, we have to play them tomorrow, so they’re great. Salamat to all the Filipino fans. We’ll see them soon,” Shoji said.

“We know that Filipino fans love volleyball, so we thank them very much for coming and encouraging us. I’m from Honolulu, so it’s cool to be here, and it’s been a great experience so far,” he added.

Since arriving in the country last June 15, Shoji said the Filipinos have been nothing but accommodating to the entire team, making their stay extra special.

“They take really good care of us and the people are so nice, so accommodating. I think they are the nicest people in the world,” Shoji said.

“We are very happy to be here for the first time. I think it’s almost everyone’s first experience here, and so far so good, except for that match,” he added.

Shoji and the rest of the Americans will try to bounce back tomorrow when they face Brazil at 7 p.m

“Tomorrow we have a quick turnaround against Brazil. We have to learn from this, move on and it is always good against Brazil,” Shoji finished.