1/14 Training
On the third day of the Okinawa Kunigami Camp, we fully rotated our heads and bodies at the Kunigami Kaigin Field. We also sweated through training focused on using the ball on this day.
Manager Rikizo MATSUHASHI demands initiative from players during training. In the morning session, he instructed players to use one-twos and drop passes improvisationally while specifying routes, and also asked them to choose which side to stand on while using a dummy as the opposing defense. One of his distinctive traits is that he encourages players to continue without stopping even if they make mistakes. This is why players have naturally become more bold and fearless in their play.
In addition, when such clever plays are made, they say "let's respond to good plays" and naturally, admiration can be heard from all over the pitch. After completing the third day of training, the new coach's style has become more distinct.
FOCUS ON
The "FOCUS ON" captured by the official photographer on the third day of camp was this one. Yukinori YAMAKAWA, who is in his 26th season with the team, sends a serious gaze to the pitch. The expression he showed, which is usually calm, was 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, the "CAMP VOICE" features Kento HASHIMOTO, who put on the blue and red practice uniform for the first time in four and a half seasons. After joining the team from the afternoon practice the day before, he demonstrated his high-quality "stopping and kicking" techniques that he has been focusing on since his time in Tokyo. Furthermore, he himself also laughed and said "it's not my character", but he is also expected to take on a leadership role in the team. He said, "I want to break out of my shell" as he looks forward to this new challenge as the number 18 player for the blue and red team.
Q, please tell us about the background and thoughts on your transfer.
A, I have been talking with Tokyo for about two years now. This season, I was playing for SD Eibar (Spain), but due to various circumstances, I was not able to play in many games. When I received a hot offer from Tokyo, I made the decision to come back with a strong determination.
Q, How did you feel when you received the offer?
I was moved by the desire of the strengthening department to win the title and the fact that they needed me. I have always been concerned about Tokyo, but as I couldn't compete for the championship, my desire to contribute and win the title with my own strength has grown day by day.
Q, Please tell us about your current team.
There are many young players and the coach has also changed, so I think the atmosphere of training is very good.
Q, what are your thoughts on wearing the number 18 from now on?
A, I've always wanted to wear the number 18 if I come back. Of course, I want to carry the feelings of Naohiro Ishikawa (Community Generator) and Manato Shinada (JEF United Ichihara Chiba player) and make the number 18 an even more meaningful number.
Q, I have returned to Tokyo after being away for 4 and a half seasons. What kind of play do you want to show to the fans and supporters that you will meet for the first time in a while?
I want to show my passionate play, which is my strength, and contribute to the victory. I want to play at Ajinomoto Stadium as soon as possible.
Text by Kyohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
