1/17 Training
On the 6th day of the Okinawa Kunigami Camp, training was conducted at Kaigin Field Kunigami in preparation for the first training match of the season against Meio University the following day.
On this day, while practicing build-up and defense, we focused on "looking for the highest point" and making passes to reverse the opponent's press. Additionally, we reviewed our training so far and confirmed the shape of bringing the opponent to the center and spreading them out.
In the first match of the new system, various players are expected to be used, and some combinations are likely to be tested. Expectations are also high for the performance of new players such as Marcelo RYAN, who has shown a strong presence in practice, and Kento HASHIMOTO. Finally, "Rikizo Tokyo" will reveal its true strength.
FOCUS ON
Official photographer's camp photo project "FOCUS ON" selected. On the 6th day of the camp, Kei Koizumi, who turns 30 this year, was captured seeking advice from Keigo Higashi after the team practice. Since turning pro with Albirex Niigata, he has always followed closely behind Leo Silva, saying "I asked everything I could". And now, his career has reached its 12th year this season. However, he still has a burning desire to improve and can be seen seeking advice from both seniors and juniors. The unchanging Kei and the kindness of Keigo in response can be felt in this photo.
CAMP VOICE vol.6 Tsubasa TERAYAMA
Tsubasa TERAYAMA sought a stage for success with Sagan Tosu from the middle of last season and spent an intense six months. And this season, he will once again wear the blue and red. The first two years after turning pro were spent in obscurity. That was also to spread his wings and fly higher──. I asked TERAYAMA, who said "Honestly, I'm in a hurry," about what he felt during his training in Tosu and his thoughts for this season.
Q, What was your half season like after being transferred to Sagan Tosu on a temporary basis in the middle of last season?
A, I went to Tosu and was immediately used as a starter, but I didn't get results and realized that it wasn't easy. However, I met various players, coaches, and coaches, and my own awareness changed. It was only my second year, but it was a half year where I felt that there were really various players for the first time after transferring. I think it was a very intense time for me. I feel sorry that we were relegated to the J2 league, but I think that living in Tosu will definitely be beneficial for my future soccer career, and I believe that I have to do that.
Q, I was able to score my first professional goal in the FC Machida Zelvia match.
In my second year as a professional, I was given the opportunity to start in the Albirex Niigata match last season. I wanted to show my presence from there, but unfortunately I got injured. I started with the goal of achieving results, but I also experienced setbacks. In soccer, injuries are inevitable, but I only thought about how I could climb back up from there. By achieving results, I wanted to show that my value is not just limited to this. In that sense, I think that one goal in the Machida match was big for me. After that, I almost scored in the Nagoya Grampus match, but it hit the post. There were also moments where I was able to let go after scoring one goal, and I also felt like I was getting into my groove towards the end of the season. However, this season is a different story. I want to compete with my teammates and do my best without losing.
Q, How has experiencing a different environment from Tokyo affected you?
A, the environment was completely different from Tokyo. However, the club Sagan Tosu is a club that fights together with the whole city, and I felt that it was a club that was supported not only by players but also by fans, supporters, and people in the community. I could really feel that the people of Tosu are able to enjoy their daily lives because of the club Sagan Tosu, and they are looking forward to the weekend matches. Our job is to give courage and energy to those people, and I was able to realize that again through my own experience. Although I am now with a different team, I want to have a season where my performance can reach the people of Tosu.
Q, and the 2025 season, the third year of the professional league, will begin.
A, To be honest, I'm feeling anxious. I haven't been able to do anything in the past two years, and I haven't been able to do any big projects. I think this third year will be a very important season, and I want to make it a season where I can bring about change within myself. However, there are wonderful players, coaches, and staff here, so I am happy to be able to work with these people. I want to focus on my growth and take it one step at a time.
Text by Kyohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
