1/23 Training
On the 12th day of the Okinawa Kunigami camp, the team confirmed their defense in each zone at Kaigin Field Kunigami and worked up a sweat with breakdowns in front of the goal.
The players gathered again on the practice field after taking a day off to recharge their spirits during this camp. While pursuing the level and precision built up through training so far, practice menus focused more on actual combat have also been added.
As the opening approaches, Coach Rikizo MATSUHASHI has begun to tackle the "new challenge" he spoke about right after starting. Throughout this process, the coach has been constantly troubled with the desire to "bring out their best." During the camp, he must have communicated with many players and gathered various hints. Now, he has entered the phase of translating that into action on the pitch.
FOCUS ON
The official photographer's selected camp photo project "FOCUS ON." On the 12th day of the Okinawa Kunigami camp, the focus was on Masataka KOBAYASHI, who is in his second professional season. Shota YAMASHITA, the goalkeeper coach who took office this season, brought various balls to this camp, and on this day, training was conducted to attack a volleyball kicked from a close distance. Pay attention to KOBAYASHI's eyes as he dives into the ball, discarding his fear. He was filled with determination to not close his eyes until the end and to absolutely stop the ball.
CAMP VOICE vol.10 Teppei OKA
Teppei OKA played in 19 matches and scored 2 goals in his rookie year last season in the Meiji Yasuda J1 League. He has also expanded his versatility by being utilized as a left back. In his second professional season, where further progress is expected, he expressed, "I want to be a presence that leads the team to victory." To resonate his passionate cry throughout Japan, we asked him about his aspirations for this season.
Q, the second season of the professional league is starting.
A, with the change of coach, there was initially some confusion with the completely different approach. However, we communicated, and I received advice on how to improve things. Now it is easier, and I can understand what the coach is saying. The team's response to the coach's suggestions is also positive, so I believe we are having a good atmosphere during the camp.
Q: In your first year as a professional, you started to get involved in games on the rise, but are you aiming for a starting position this season?
A, last season I missed the starting lineup at the opening match. Using that regret as motivation, I was able to gradually build myself up, and I started to get involved in matches from the beginning of the season. This season, I want to take on a central role in the team from the start and become a presence that can lead the team to victory. I am approaching training with that awareness. Keita ENDO and many other players have expressed that "we must win the championship," and I play with the belief that we have that responsibility.
Q: Seiji KIMURA has returned. How do you feel about competing for a regular position and being able to fight alongside your peers from the academy days?
A, there is a feeling of joy, and also a sense of tension and pressure as the tough competition begins. I have a strong desire to play in the matches together and help Tokyo win.
Q: Many players who have grown up in the academy are also enrolled this season.
A, elementary school students who are in the school and players who play in U-15 and U-18 have spent their academy days hoping to become figures that they can admire when they turn professional. I believe there is meaning and value in players from the academy succeeding.
Q: Last season, there were many matches where you were used as a side back, and it seemed there were few opportunities to showcase your long feeds, which is one of your attractions. Is that something you want fans and supporters to know more about?
A, that's right. I feel that I couldn't fully express myself last season. It was my characteristic, yet I wasn't able to showcase it. To let others know that I can play like this, I want to challenge myself in that area this season.
Q: The coach mentioned that he wants us to grow with a sense of autonomy.
A, while following the example of the veteran Masato MORISHIGE, I want to show responsible play this season, as I have to lead the team to victory and guide them to the championship.
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
