The Okinawa Kunigami Camp is now on its 4th day.
Tomorrow, the 23rd, we have a practice match with FC Ryukyu, so we conducted training with the intention of simulating a real game.
In the attack menu, each player is positioned in their respective position and confirms the build-up from the final line and the breakdown in the vital area. While sharing the priorities during the attack, we aimed for the goal.
In the half-court red and white game, we were conscious of the team's direction to be put into practice in tomorrow's practice match. Instructions were flying between players to switch positions and defense.
In the afternoon, we focused on recovery due to bad weather. Each player prepared their condition for tomorrow's practice match.
After the end of practice, we interviewed player number 40, Riki HARAKAWA.
Q, there were also impressive direct free kicks during practice. How do you feel about the touch and condition?
A, we still have a long way to go and I think practice and games are different. Personally, I think my condition will gradually improve through games. Including tomorrow's game against FC Ryukyu, I want to improve firmly through practice games during the camp period.
Q: Tomorrow, we have our first practice match of the season against FC Ryukyu. What points do you want to focus on?
As a team, we have new players joining us, so we are having meetings to unify what we need to do. We need to focus on that and play. As an individual, I want to give 100% of my play at this point in order to further improve my condition. I hope to be able to play with attention to detail.
Q: The camp is still in the early stages, but how do you feel about the team's fighting style and direction?
A, there is no big change from last season, but I feel that it is important to continue building on what we have achieved so far and to thoroughly extend it. This also applies to tomorrow's practice match, where I hope to demonstrate our play without wavering.
Q: Do you have any personal goals during the camp period?
A. First and foremost, it is important to avoid injuries. Also, it's important not to catch a cold (laughs). Every season, I tend to lose my condition during training camp or have to temporarily leave due to injuries, so my main goal is to finish camp without any injuries.
Q: What kind of year do you want this season to be?
A, I joined the team in the middle of last season and felt the difficulty of adjusting to the team and my personal strengths. During the off-season, I watched game footage and was able to organize my thoughts. I believe that by improving further, I can contribute even better plays to the team. I want to focus on the content and quality of my plays.
Q: We have added players who are expected to be immediate contributors. How will they integrate?
A, each of the newly joined players has their own strengths, and in order to become a strong team, it is necessary to have a deep player pool that can rotate. With a large number of players on the team, if each player can express their strengths, a synergistic effect will be created and the team will be able to grow with many options. I want to continue expressing my own strengths without forgetting them.