MOSCOW, Idaho – Japanese newcomer Taiyo Kurata has signed a National Letter of Intent to play tennis at the University of Idaho, head coach Daniel Hangstefer announced Friday. 

Hailing from Hiroshima, Japan, Kurata is set to join the Vandals for the upcoming 2022-23 season. A four-year varsity letter winner and a team captain at Hiroshima Kokusai Gakuin High school, Kurata made multiple appearances at the Japanese national tournament in 2019 and 2021. His success on the court translated to helping lead his team to a Tokyo Prefectural Tournament Championship. 

"Taiyo is an incredibly gifted athlete and player," Hangstefer said. "He is going to add an important element to our team. We are super excited to have him join our roster."

Kurata adds depth to a roster with no turnover from a season ago and will help the 2022 Big Sky Conference champions defend their title. 

Get to know: Taiyo Kurata 

Where are you from and what do you like best about your hometown?
I am from Hiroshima, Japan and I think the best part is the food. 

What drew you to Idaho?
The success of the team from last year and the value of education at the University of Idaho. 

Do you have any goals for this upcoming season?
I want to improve my English and help the team win another Big Sky Championship and go to the national tournament. 

If you could have dinner with anyone from any era, who would it be and why?
Roger Federer

If you had the chance to watch one past sporting event, which one would you go to? 
Wimbledon in 2019 between Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer

Which professional athlete from any sport do you wish to watch?
Lionel Messi 

What is your best childhood memory?
Going to Disneyland when I was in fourth grade

Who is your favorite music artist? 
Maroon 5

What is a movie that you can watch over and over again?
Jurassic World: Battle at Big Rock

If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I would like to learn to play the guitar

What is one place you really want to visit? 
New York City

--