Preparations for the 2024 season's preseason have entered the second camp, and the Okinawa Itoman camp has started today.
The camp venue, Nishizaki Sports Park Athletic Field, was blessed with clear skies and enveloped in the warm air typical of Okinawa.
Tomorrow will be completely closed to the public, the day after tomorrow's activities will be off, and the public training will only be today. However, many fans, supporters, and local residents came to the stands and provided enthusiastic support to the team and players.
At the beginning of the practice, a welcome ceremony was held, and we received encouraging remarks from Mayor Mae Tomi of Itoman City along with a commemorative gift from Okinawa Prefecture.
In the secondary camp, we will continue to focus on training to enhance each player's ball feeling. Improving the quality and speed of passes, as well as aligning the awareness of the passer and receiver, will enhance game control during matches.
At the end of the training, we positioned each player and shared the process of aiming for the goal. We confirmed many variations, such as breaking through the center, crosses from the sides, and building up from the back line.
After practice, we conducted an interview with number 9, Diego OLIVEIRA.
Q, the Okinawa Itoman camp has started today.
A, my condition is very well maintained and in good shape. I feel that not only myself but also the overall atmosphere and condition of the team are good. There is still some time before the league season starts, so I want to keep improving from this point without being satisfied with the current situation. I will prepare my condition to deliver the best performance.
Q: Last season, you scored a career-high 15 goals in the league matches. I believe the expectations from those around you are higher than ever this season.
A, I feel pressure and expectations on me in various ways. However, I believe that if I can play as usual and keep a calm mind throughout the season, good results will follow.
Q: The camp is approaching its final stages. How will you coordinate with your teammates from here on?
A, I want to focus on the coordination between existing players and new players. Since high-quality players have newly joined, I want to deepen our coordination not only during the camp period but also in the upcoming practice matches and training sessions, so that we can welcome the league opening in a good condition.
