Volleyball has always been part of Erik Shoji’s life. Growing up with the sport, the court became the place where he felt most comfortable being himself.
“I’ve always felt most at home on the court. I’ve always been able to be myself on the court, whether that’s the way I play, the way I celebrate, the way I communicate with teammates. I think the court has always been a safe space for me and somewhere that I can truly feel myself and have always been accepted, and I think that’s a beautiful thing.”
Deciding to come out publicly in 2025 was one of the biggest moments of Shoji’s life. He wanted to be open about who he is, hear from the people closest to him and then move forward, with volleyball still at the centre of his life.
“It meant everything. I think when I decided to share my story, the goal was to get my feelings out there, get my story out there, hopefully receive some positive feedback from the community, from my coaches, teammates, friends, family, and then move on. And I think that’s exactly what happened. I received so many kind messages, love and support from everyone from around the world, and then I was able to play VNL and move forward from there.”
The reaction was another reminder of why volleyball has always felt like home for Shoji. Wherever the sport has taken him, he has found people who made him feel welcome.
“I think the volleyball community is very accepting all around the world, and I think that’s a beautiful thing in our sport. There’s so many different types of people that are playing volleyball.”
The messages kept coming after Shoji shared his story. Some came through social media, while others came from fans he met at matches. Each one meant a great deal to him.
“I would simply just say thank you for your messages, writing in the comments, your comments on the court, off the court when I see you guys at the matches. I think just thank you so much for the love and support.”
Shoji knows that young athletes often look for people they can see themselves in. By sharing his story, he wanted them to know that being themselves should not stop them from dreaming big.
“I think it’s important for young athletes to see authentic athletes just so they can be themselves. I think maybe the phrase ‘representation matters’ is said a lot these days, but it’s true. If you can see someone that you identify with that’s older or successful or playing at the highest level, then you know that you can do it too. And I think that was a big part of my goal when I shared my story, was to show younger volleyball players and younger athletes that you can be who you want to be and you can make it. Maybe you can be an Olympian one day or achieve whatever it is that you aspire to be. I think that’s important.”
The sense of belonging Shoji found through volleyball is something he hopes others can discover for themselves.
“I think my message to people that feel different out there is just get out and play. Find your community. There’s so many different people playing volleyball out there that I know that you can find your people and your court or your beach or your grass, and you’re going to love it. So go out, try it, play it, and have fun.”
Thinking back to the boy who first picked up a volleyball, Shoji took a moment to consider what he would say to his younger self.
“What would I want to tell little Erik? Wow, that’s a tough one. Probably continue to be yourself. Keep celebrating how you want to celebrate. Don’t worry.”
This World Volleyball Day on 7 July, celebrate the people and places that made volleyball your safe space. Whether it was a teammate, a coach, a club or a community, share the moments that helped you feel accepted and belong using #WorldVolleyballDay.
