Photo Courtesy: UNBC Athletics

By Ethan Ready

Japanese Recruit

TWolves draw Japanese speedster, Toranosuke Omori, to the soccer pitch

Sep 3, 2021 | 7:58 AM

ckpgckpPRINCE GEORGE – In 2019-2020, the University of Northern British Columbia Men’s Soccer team recruited Japanese midfielder Kensho Ando, and the Tokyo native subsequently earned Timberwolves Most Valuable Player honours. Two years later, the TWolves have gone back to Tokyo for another impact recruit, announcing the commitment of speedster Toranosuke Omori for the 2021 Canada West season.

“I am walking on sunshine. I am really happy to come and join here.”

Toranosuke, who prefers to be called “Tora” by his new teammates, played for four years at Gakushuin University in Tokyo, but learned through a scouting agency that he could make the trip to Canada for an opportunity to continue his collegiate career and pursue further education.

“Honestly, I didn’t know it was an option to go to Canada as a student-athlete. It has enabled me to come here and play soccer, and also study English here. I have to brush up my English more.”

Omori has been training with the Timberwolves for two weeks, and his new teammates have taken to him in a major way. He plays the game with tremendous pace, making quick decisions on and off the ball, but according to UNBC coach Steve Simonson, it is his personality and positive disposition that has really endeared him to the other UNBC athletes.

Spruce Kings fall in Langley to Rivermen

20h ago

Sexual Assault and Harassment

Judge to rule on Canada Post employee's sexual assault and harassment case

Dec 13, 2025

Weather Alerts

Freezing rain warning issued for Prince George-area, snowfall warning remains for Williston, Pine Pass

Dec 13, 2025

“We are really thrilled to welcome Tora to the squad. He is a welcome addition because he brings a professionalism and approach that is of the highest level. Tora is a tenacious and expressive midfield player who brings something a little different than what we currently have. He is an exceptionally driven player and always plays in top gear. I am excited to see his potential unfold. This is a really good addition to our program moving forward”

Omori grew up playing the game in Tokyo, developing techniques, style, and tactics that suit the Japanese game. While the midfielder’s time in Canada has been brief, he is learning Simonson’s coaching style, and the Canadian speed and approach to soccer.

“His view and thinking of soccer are quite different than what I did in Japan. I really like him as a coach. Canadian soccer is different than what I did in Japan. I like the view of thinking. It is a little bit slower, but physically, it is much better than Japan.”

At five-foot-eight, Omori is built powerfully and possesses quick reflexes and acceleration. The 23-year-old is excited to play games at the U SPORTS level, where he can test his abilities at the highest level of university soccer in the country. Always humble, he gave Timberwolves fans an assessment of what they can expect from him on the pitch.

“My strengths are, I’m hard-working, quick transitions, and handling the ball with speed. I am not a super player, but I can run again and again and again. That is what I did and pursued in Japan.”

The TWolves open the Canada West season on the road in Victoria on September 10^th. Their new speedster hopes to be in the lineup, playing alongside his new teammates who have welcomed him with open arms.

“They are really kind and they really love soccer from the bottom of their hearts. I am extremely happy to play with them.”