New Signing for Australian Championship and 2026 NSW NPL MENS 

Wollongong Wolves Sign Japanese Midfielder Kazuya Yamamura for Australian Championship Campaign and 2026 NPL Season

Wollongong Wolves FC is proud to announce the signing of Kazuya Yamamura, a highly decorated Japanese midfielder, who will join the club for the Australian Championship campaign later this year and remain with the Wolves for the 2026 NPL NSW season.

Yamamura arrives from Yokohama F.Marinos with a glittering CV, having enjoyed success at some of Japan’s biggest clubs including Kashima Antlers, Cerezo Osaka, and Kawasaki Frontale. Over his career, he has collected an impressive nine major trophies, including:

* J1 League Titles: 2020, 2021 (Kawasaki Frontale)

* Emperor’s Cup: 2017 (Cerezo Osaka), 2020 & 2023 (Kawasaki Frontale)

* J.League Cup: 2012, 2013, 2015 (Kashima Antlers), 2017 (Cerezo Osaka), 2019 (Kawasaki Frontale)

* Suruga Bank Championship: 2013 (Kashima Antlers)

At international level, Yamamura has been capped by Japan’s senior national team and was part of the Japan U-23 squad that won the 2010 Asian Games.

Australian Championship Head Coach Luke Wilkshire welcomed Yamamura’s signing:

“Kazuya has been a serial winner in the J1 League and brings a wealth of experience at the highest level in Asia. His leadership and technical quality will be vital for our Championship campaign and a massive boost heading into the 2026 season.”

Club Chairman Tory Lavalle added:

“To bring in a player with Kazuya’s pedigree, someone who has consistently lifted trophies and competed at the highest level, is a huge statement for the Wolves. He is a proven winner, and we are thrilled he has chosen Wollongong as the next step in his career.”

Yamamura will link up with the Wolves ahead of the Australian Championship in October, before turning his focus to helping the club in the 2026 NPL NSW season.

Credit: Photo by Adam McLean