1/14 Training
On the third day of the Okinawa Kunigami camp, we fully engaged our minds and bodies at Kaigin Field Kunigami. On this day as well, we focused on training that involved using the ball and worked up a sweat.
Coach Rikizo MATSUHASHI demands initiative from the players during training. In the passing and control session held that morning, while specifying routes, players were encouraged to use one-twos and drop-balls spontaneously, and to choose whether to stand on the left or right side while imagining a dummy figure as the opposing defense. Even if they make mistakes, they continue without stopping, which is also a characteristic of the training. Because of this, players have naturally increased their bold plays without fear of making mistakes.
Moreover, when such clever plays emerge, it is said, "Let's respond to good plays," and naturally, voices of admiration can be heard from all over the pitch. The fulfilling training has completed its third day, and the new coach's style has become more pronounced.
FOCUS ON
The "FOCUS ON" captured by the official photographer on the third day of camp has chosen this shot. Yukinori YAMAKAWA, who is in his 26th season with the team, sends a serious gaze onto the pitch. The usually calm Yama-san showed a fleeting expression that reflected the face of a craftsman who continues to support the blue and red.
CAMP VOICE vol.3 Kento HASHIMOTO
On the third day of the Okinawa Kunigami camp, 'CAMP VOICE' features Kento HASHIMOTO, who donned the blue and red training gear for the first time in four and a half seasons. After joining the team from the afternoon practice the previous day, he showcased the high-quality skills of 'stopping and kicking' that he has been particular about since his time in Tokyo. Furthermore, although he himself chuckles and says, 'It's not my character,' he is expected to take on a leading role in the team. He expressed his excitement for new challenges, saying, 'I want to break out of my shell,' as he spoke to us wearing the blue and red number 18.
Q: Please tell us about the circumstances and your thoughts regarding the transfer.
A, I had been in talks with Tokyo for about two years. This season, I was playing for SD Eibar (Spain), but due to the situation where I couldn't get many matches, I received a strong offer from Tokyo and returned with a considerable determination.
Q: How did you feel when you received the offer?
A, I was moved by the desire of the strengthening department to win titles and the fact that they need me. I have always been concerned about Tokyo, but as we have not been able to compete for the championship, my desire to contribute with my own strength and to win titles has been growing day by day.
Q: Please tell us your impression of the current team.
A, there are many young players, and with the change of coach, I believe the atmosphere of practice is very good.
Q: You will be playing with the number 18 from now on. What are your thoughts on the number 18?
A, if I come back, I wanted to wear the number 18. Of course, I want to carry the thoughts of Naohiro (Naohiro ISHIKAWA, Community Generator) and Manato (Manato SHINADA, JEF United Chiba) and make the number 18 an even more significant number.
Q: After being away from Tokyo for four and a half seasons, what kind of performance do you want to show to the fans and supporters you haven't seen in a while?
A, I want to show my characteristic passionate play and contribute to the victory. I want to play at Ajinomoto Stadium soon.
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
