by The official website for the upcoming TV anime “Dodge Danko: The Ball Fighter of Flame” has unveiled its first teaser visual, main cast lineup, and new details about the story. The announcement has generated excitement among fans of classic sports anime, especially those familiar with the legendary series Dodge Danpei.
A particularly notable highlight is the involvement of veteran voice actress Noriko Hidaka, who will voice the childhood version of Danko’s father, Danpei, while also serving as the series narrator. Special interviews featuring both the new cast and returning legacy figures have also been released, emphasizing the anime’s role as a bridge between generations.
Main Cast and Characters
The Kyukawa Fighting Ball Club the core team of the story will be brought to life by a talented and diverse voice cast:
- Manaka Nakayama as Itsuki Danko
- Kaori Maeda as Kobotoke Chinko
- Akira Sekine as Ebukuro Mochiko
- Yo Daichi as Susan Cannon
- Yu Shinohara as Otohana Hane
- Noriko Hidaka as young Danpei and narrator
Each character represents a unique personality and playing style, promising dynamic team interactions both on and off the dodgeball court.
Noriko Hidaka’s participation is especially meaningful. She previously played key roles in iconic anime from the late 1980s and 1990s, and her return connects the new series directly to the spirit of the original franchise.
A Sequel to a Classic Sports Anime
“Dodge Danko: The Ball Fighter of Flame” is based on the manga by Tetsuhiro Koshita, serialized in Weekly CoroCoro Comic since 2022. The series serves as the official sequel to the classic dodgeball manga and anime centered on Danpei.
While the original story followed a fiery young boy striving to become the strongest dodgeball player, the new series shifts focus to the next generation.
Story Overview: A New Heroine Rises
The anime follows Itsuki Danko, the daughter of legendary player Itsuki Danpei. Determined to carry on her father’s legacy, she sets out to rebuild the once-famous “Fighting Spirit Dodgeball Team” in the Reiwa era (modern Japan).
However, reviving a fallen team is no easy task.
Danko must recruit teammates with very different personalities, overcome internal conflicts, and challenge powerful rival teams. Along the way, she learns the true meaning of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
The series combines high-energy sports action with heartfelt character growth, making it accessible to both longtime fans and newcomers.
The Kyukawa Fighting Ball Club
The newly formed team plays a central role in the story. Each member contributes distinct strengths:
- Powerful throwers capable of game-changing attacks
- Strategic players who analyze opponents
- Agile defenders specializing in evasion
- Emotional supporters who boost team morale
Their interactions promise a mix of comedy, rivalry, and emotional bonding — hallmarks of great sports anime.
Noriko Hidaka’s Special Role
Casting Noriko Hidaka as young Danpei and narrator is more than a nostalgic cameo. Her voice symbolizes the passing of the torch from the original generation to the new one.
As narrator, she guides viewers through Danko’s journey, adding emotional weight and continuity to the story. As young Danpei, she also provides insight into the father’s past, enriching the overall narrative.
Fans of classic anime may recognize her voice from numerous beloved series, making her involvement a major draw.
Special Interviews with Past and Present Cast
To celebrate the announcement, the production team released special interviews featuring both the new voice actors and figures connected to the original series.
These interviews highlight:
- The pressure of inheriting a beloved franchise
- The excitement of introducing dodgeball to a new generation
- The importance of honoring the original spirit while modernizing the story
- Personal reflections from actors who grew up watching the classic series
This dual perspective reinforces the theme of legacy that runs throughout the anime itself.
Visual Style and Tone
The teaser visual showcases Danko in a dynamic pose, gripping a dodgeball engulfed in stylized flames — a clear nod to the series’ high-intensity action.
Key visual elements suggest:
- Bright, energetic character designs
- Exaggerated motion typical of sports anime
- Dramatic impact effects for throws and hits
- A balance between comedy and serious competition
Modern animation techniques are expected to enhance the spectacle while preserving the over-the-top charm that defined the original.
Why This Anime Is Worth Watching
1. Legacy Appeal
Fans of the classic series will appreciate the continuation of the story through Danpei’s daughter.
2. Strong Female Protagonist
Danko represents a new type of sports hero — determined, energetic, and relatable.
3. Beginner-Friendly Story
No prior knowledge of the original series is required, making it accessible to new viewers.
4. Nostalgia Meets Modern Style
The anime blends old-school passion with contemporary animation and storytelling.
5. Team-Focused Drama
Like the best sports anime, it emphasizes friendship, growth, and perseverance.
Broadcast Information
“Dodge Danko: The Ball Fighter of Flame” is scheduled to premiere in 2026. Specific broadcast dates and streaming platforms have not yet been officially announced, but additional details are expected in future updates.
Given the franchise’s popularity among younger audiences in Japan, the series may also receive international streaming releases.
Final Thoughts
“Dodge Danko: The Ball Fighter of Flame” is shaping up to be an exciting revival of a classic sports franchise. By focusing on a new heroine while honoring the legacy of the original characters, the anime aims to capture both nostalgia and fresh appeal.
With a talented voice cast, a beloved source manga, and a story centered on teamwork and determination, the series has strong potential to become one of the standout sports anime of 2026.
Whether you are a longtime fan of dodgeball anime or a newcomer looking for an energetic, heartwarming series, this upcoming show is definitely one to watch.
