Ryunosuke Tanaka is a second-year wing spiker for Karasuno High School's volleyball team. Lean but strong, he stands around 177-178 cm tall. His shaved head features a widow's peak and sharp blue-grey eyes, contributing to a sometimes-delinquent appearance. After sporting short, fuzzy blond hair in his first year, he shaved it off seeking refreshment. Post-graduation, he develops a more muscular build, grows out his dark hair, and occasionally dyes it light again later. Tanaka possesses a loud, hot-headed personality with a tendency to pick fights. He's often late and academically unmotivated. Yet, he exhibits deep loyalty and protectiveness towards teammates, especially underclassmen. He visibly enjoys being called "senpai" and fiercely defends the team against belittlement, famously retorting, "If you look down on us like that, we'll chew you up and spit you out." He maintains strong mental fortitude during matches, rarely buckling under targeted pressure, though feelings of mediocrity resurface roughly every six months. His enthusiastic celebrations include spinning his shirt overhead after scoring in practice. He holds a significant interest in girls, decorating his room with female idol posters. He develops an intense admiration for manager Kiyoko Shimizu, proposing upon their first meeting and persistently pursuing her despite rejection. He often coordinates with libero Yū Nishinoya to shield Kiyoko during tournaments. Off the court, he becomes noticeably more polite and self-conscious around girls. Tanaka attended Ōjitsu Junior High. In fourth grade, he befriended Kanoka Amanai, defending her against bullies mocking her height and introducing her to volleyball. After transferring schools, they reunited years later at the Spring High National Tournament. As a volatile first-year at Karasuno, he particularly resented unfair treatment of the volleyball club. Witnessing his seniors' maturity inspired him to channel his impulsiveness into dedication, leading to his decision to shave his head. Tanaka evolves from a reactive player to a reliable offensive force. Initially known for cross and straight spikes, he masters a competitive jump serve by the Nationals arc. Coach Ukai identifies him as Karasuno’s second-strongest spiker after Asahi Azumane, praising his unwavering performance under pressure. His mid-November physical stats include a 224 cm fingertip height and a 324 cm spike reach. He mentors underclassmen, like calming Shoyo Hinata’s pre-match nerves and facilitating early-morning practices for Hinata and Tobio Kageyama before their 3-on-3 match against Kei Tsukishima and Tadashi Yamaguchi. During this match, he defends the first-years against Tsukishima’s provocations and celebrates their rapid growth. Post-graduation, Tanaka becomes a personal trainer and marries Kiyoko Shimizu.