Haikyuu: Why Hinata Shoyo Is So Inspiring

Hinata Shoyo is the protagonist of the widely popular series Haikyuu.

· 3 min read
 Hinata Shoyo

Haikyuu!! is a Japanese Manga and Anime series illustrated by Haruichi Furudate. It began serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump magazine from February 2012 to July 2020. Hinata Shoyo is the protagonist of the widely popular series Haikyuu!!.

The story revolves around Hinata Shoyo, a first-year high-school student enrolled at Karasuno High School, and his Volleyball journey to qualify for the nationals. He played Volleyball in middle school but due to a lack of team members, he was never able to officially play until his last year when he played a match against Kageyama Tobio and lost.


The anime started airing from April 2014 to September 2014 and so far 4 seasons of Haikyuu!! have aired till 2021. Hinata Shoyo considers Kageyama Tobio as his rival and wants to surpass him in Volleyball. Kageyama Tobio and Hinata Shoyo ended up as teammates in the Karasuno High School Volleyball Team.

Hinata Shoyo is a mixed-bag full of surprises. Out of all the Haikyuu!! characters, his screen time is much more impactful and leaves a lasting impression. Unlike other players, he might lack fundamentals or basic knowledge but he makes up for his speed. He is a character that had steady character development throughout the series.

His quote “I may be small, but I can jump!” actually leaves an optimistic vibe in the viewers and I find it comforting. He is aware of his strength and his weakness and constantly works hard to achieve his goals.

Hinata Shoya has orange hair, short in stature, has wavy and unruly hair, brown eyes, and a thin build. People often mistake him for a middle school student. He often wears a Karasuno High School Volleyball uniform.

What Makes Hinata Shoya A Formidable Opponent?

Hinata Shoyo’s Personality

Smiling Hinata Shoyo

Hinata Shoyo is a cheerful and a happy go lucky guy. He is an extroverted person by nature. He is a simpleton by definition. Hinata Shoyo has a bright personality and in most serious settings he remains calm.

His composite but hyperactive nature often acts as an ice-breaker in crucial moments. He often surprises people with his vertical jumps and he also has a natural affinity as a spiker.

Also, Read Kageyama And Hinata’s Heartwarming Journey: From Nemesis To A Phenomenal Friendship

His natural charm attracts attention from people around him, especially his opponents, and due to his friendly nature, he often ends up befriending even his rivals.

Hinata Shoyo is a bubbly character but when it comes to playing volleyball, he is extremely tenacious and dedicated. And during the match, his attitude to never give up is often respected by everyone.

He has an energetic disposition and gets excited easily. Before a match, he gets nervous and is somewhat clumsy.

His extraordinary stamina, quick reflexes, and ability to read the moves make him a formidable opponent. He is often ridiculed and underestimated due to his short height but he overcomes that with his optimistic nature, he never let his height get him discouraged.

Hinata Shoyo’s Game Style

Shoyo in middle school

In middle school, he played as a wing spiker but after entering the Karasuno High School Volleyball team, he plays as a middle blocker. He often plays as a decoy to trick his opponents during the match. His incredible speed and vertical jumps often come in handy while luring the opponents away and have earned him the reputation of “the perfect decoy”.

Hinata Shoyo and Kageyama Tobio make the perfect power-packed duo. With Kageyama as the setter, Hinata Shoyo performs exceptionally well.

Interesting Facts About Hinata Shoyo

  • Hinata’s jersey number (position) #10 is the same as the previous famous Karasuno High player “Little Giant”.
  • Initially, Shoyo and Kageyama didn’t get along. They constantly bicker but as the series progressed Kageyama acknowledged him.
  • When he entered high school his height was 162.4cm which is quite short for volleyball players.
  • He befriended Kozume Kenma from Nekoma High.
  • His favourite food is Tamago Kake Gohan (White rice with raw eggs).
The Bottom Line

Hinata Shoyo is a force to reckon with. Underestimating him could cost you a match!