◤地元・石川県のためにも──
気持ちを押し出す選手への変貌
MF 45 安田虎士朗
Special content introducing the all-blue and red warriors who will challenge the 2024 season. What are the players thinking as they approach the opening, and what kind of determination are they facing for the year? The players' stories, hidden in their love for the club, their thirst for titles, their desire to perform, and the roles they must fulfill──. Kojiro YASUDA, who seeks growth with the lessons learned at Tochigi SC. For the sake of his hometown of Ishikawa Prefecture, which was affected by the Noto Peninsula earthquake, and for himself, he wants to bring light by producing results.
After finishing a year of training at Tochigi SC, it wasn't just his hair that had changed. It was his first transfer, and living in an unfamiliar place was a continuous learning experience. Yasuda said, "The environment and team style were completely different, and I think I was able to learn a different type of soccer," and continued.
"I think it's something that is said about any team, but I realized that in order to achieve results, we need to have a strong intensity and continuous movement. I think I was able to feel that intensity when I went to Tochigi."
Last season, he only played in 13 games in the Meiji Yasuda J2 League. Due to injuries and other factors, he was unable to compete throughout the season. However, by facing himself, he gained many realizations. What he said was "what he lacked" sounded like "what he wanted to improve".
"I have had several injuries and had to face my body and raise my level. There was also impatience in that process. As it stands, my play is still not settled. While I am still feeling my way through, I think the challenge is to have continuous movement and game stamina for 90 minutes. I want to focus on that."
Before the start of the new season, which returned to Tokyo, there was a growing sense of crisis as they were unable to participate in the red and white scrimmage. However, there were also moments where they tried to appeal in the limited time given, and even managed to score by charging into the muddy goal area.
"The most important thing is to run until the end. Personally, I want results. If I don't score or assist, I won't be able to play in the game or make an impression. I want to be conscious of that and do my best."
I had never seen Yasuda, who had been there before, show such a strong presence on the field. Perhaps it was because of his feelings for Ishikawa Prefecture, where he was born and raised, and for Hokuriku. On New Year's Day this year, the Noto Peninsula earthquake caused extensive damage in various places. In the hopes of a speedy recovery, Yasuda will bring energy to the place where he learned the joy of soccer.
"After my hometown was hit by a natural disaster, I had friends who were affected as well. I hope that by doing my best, I can bring some positivity and be a source of encouragement for those who are struggling. I want to turn these experiences into something positive and use them as motivation to keep pushing forward."
The season of hope and competition has begun. Ahead, there may be big changes waiting.
Text by Koji Baba (Freelance Writer)