Kumi Nakada

Who is Kumi Nakada?

Kumi Nakada is a former professional volleyball player and coach of Hisamitsu Springs. She led Japan to a bronze medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics while still in high school and, despite serious and chronic knee injuries, remained one of the world's top setters until her retirement from the sport in 1993. Unusually for a Japanese athlete, Nakada was remembered by opponents and teammates alike for her volatile temper, fiery competitiveness, and outspoken manner both on and off the court. After brief stints as a fashion model and motivational speaker, Nakada currently provides color commentary and makes guest appearances in a wide range of sports and variety media in Japan. She is represented by the sportsbiz in Tokyo.