Yokohama Grits: Bringing Professional Ice Hockey Back to the Greater Tokyo Area
Ice hockey has found a vibrant new home in Kanagawa Prefecture with the emergence of the Yokohama Grits. As a professional team competing in the prestigious Asia League Ice Hockey, the Grits represent a significant revival of the sport in the region, filling a void left by previous teams in the Greater Tokyo Area.
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Team Overview and Identity
Based in the bustling city of Yokohama, the Grits have quickly established a distinct identity through their striking team colors: blue, black, and white. The team plays its home matches at the Kosé Shin-Yokohama Skate Center, providing a dedicated venue for fans to experience the high-speed action of professional hockey.
Beyond the players on the ice, the team's culture is enriched by its official mascot, a stylized beluga whale named Guluga, and a dedicated cheerleading squad known as GRITS TOPAZ, who help energize the crowd during home games.
Key Facts
- Founded: 2 May 2019
- League: Asia League Ice Hockey
- Home Arena: Kosé Shin-Yokohama Skate Center
- Owner: Akihito Usui
- Head Coach: Yuji Iwamoto
- Team Colors: Blue, black, and white
A Brief History of the Grits
The Yokohama Grits were established on 2 May 2019 by the Grits Sports Innovators Corporation, an organization led by Akihito Usui. Their formation marked a historic moment for Japanese hockey, as they became the first professional team based in the Greater Tokyo Area since the Seibu Prince Rabbits folded in 2009.
Joining the Asia League
On 2 June 2020, the Grits were officially announced as the eighth member of Asia League Ice Hockey. At the time of their announcement, former NHL player Mike Kennedy was serving as the head coach. The team's early competitive years were shaped by global events; due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the planned 2020–21 league season was cancelled and replaced by a three-country tournament. In October 2020, the Grits participated in the Asia League Japan Cup.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan |
| Founded Date | 2 May 2019 |
| Mascot | Guluga (Beluga Whale) |
| Cheer Squad | GRITS TOPAZ |
| Official Website | grits-sport.com |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do the Yokohama Grits play their home games?
The team plays all of its home games at the Kosé Shin-Yokohama Skate Center located in Yokohama.
What league does the Yokohama Grits compete in?
The Yokohama Grits are members of Asia League Ice Hockey.
Who is the mascot of the Yokohama Grits?
The team's mascot is a stylized beluga whale named Guluga.
When was the Yokohama Grits founded?
The team was founded on 2 May 2019 by the Grits Sports Innovators Corporation.
Who owns the Yokohama Grits?
The team is owned by Akihito Usui.
What are the team's official colors?
The official colors of the Yokohama Grits are blue, black, and white.