Astemo Rivale Ibaraki to relocate with new hometown

Tokyo, June 4, 2026 - Astemo, Ltd. (hereafter “Astemo”) announces that Astemo Rivale Ibaraki (hereafter “Rivale”)—the women’s volleyball team Astemo designated as its symbolic sports team—will relocate its hometown from Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture, to Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Taking effect at the start of the 2027–2028 season on July 1, 2027, the relocation enables the team to continue competing long-term in the SV.LEAGUE, based on future requirements^* presented by the SV League Public Interest Incorporated Association.

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  The SV League Public Interest Incorporated Association has announced future club licensing requirements for participation in the SV League, which include securing a home arena of a certain scale or larger from 2030 onward.

Since its founding in 1980, Rivale has grown together with the people of Ibaraki Prefecture, particularly those in Hitachinaka City, where Astemo’s Sawa Plant is located. Through the warm support of its fans at matches and their encouragement in daily activities, Rivale has built the team’s history hand in hand with the local community. Hitachinaka City has been more than just the base of athletic activities—it is where the team has been nurtured through deep ties with the community. Rivale extends its heartfelt gratitude for the tremendous support given by the fans over the many years.

In recent years, the volleyball landscape in Japan has undergone significant changes. To continue competing in the SV.LEAGUE, Rivale must strengthen its competitive environment with a long-term perspective and pursue initiatives that support the team’s further development—in particular, to meet SV.LEAGUE’s facility requirements and to establish a sustainable business foundation for the team. After carefully considering the best path forward for Rivale under these circumstances, Rivale has decided to relocate its hometown to Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture. This will enable it to continue competing at the top level, ensure an environment that supports the team’s growth, and sustainably contribute to regional sports on an ongoing basis.

The relocation will be carried out in stages, and while the planned home arena will be Yokohama International Swimming Pool, Rivale will continue to operate while traveling between Yokohama City and Ibaraki Prefecture. The team will continue to regard Hitachinaka City as its founding hometown and maintain this important relationship going forward.

Even after relocating to Yokohama City, Rivale plans to continue hosting a portion of its official SV.LEAGUE matches in Ibaraki Prefecture. Rivale will also continue its volleyball clinics and other community engagement activities to promote sports locally, while supporting the development of children who will lead the next generation. Although its base of operations will change, its commitment to continue working closely with the community remains unchanged.

While cherishing the history and connections that have been made in Ibaraki Prefecture, Rivale will strive to share the excitement of volleyball with even more people from its new home in Yokohama City. The team will continue striving to remain a team rooted in the community—one that its fans can be proud to support. Rivale sincerely appreciates its fans’ continued encouragement and support.