1/30Training
On the 6th day of the Okinawa-Itoman camp, we conducted defensive confirmation at the Itoman Nishizaki Athletics Stadium.
On this day, just before starting the tactical menu, coach Rikizo MATSUHASHI asked each player for specific goals, saying, "How many points will Teruhito NAKAGAWA score in this practice?" and "How many times will Takahiro KO steal the ball?" Thanks to the coach's strategy, unlike the previous day where mistakes continued, the players were able to generate positivity by working backwards from their goals, leading to good teamwork.
In addition, there was a tense atmosphere during practice with players exchanging harsh words. At the end of practice, the coach reflected, "It's normal for there to be a tense atmosphere among us and I think it's important for us to fight together."
"So what about individuals? In that regard, each person has set specific goals and the quality has changed dramatically just by playing with those goals in mind. In that process, a sense of responsibility and tension is also born. (At the end of the camp) I think it was tough, but they pushed through. I am grateful."
Not only the system and tactics, but also the way of placing one's heart and approaching practice have changed. It was a day when that was strongly conveyed to those around me.
FOCUS ON
Official photographer's camp photo project "FOCUS ON" selected by the official photographer. On the 6th day of the Okinawa-Itoman camp, a photo of Taishi Brandon NOZAWA, who continued training until the last day in his hometown of Okinawa, was chosen. Even on this day, he stayed on the pitch until he was the last one left, seeming reluctant to leave. Since his rookie days, he has always said, "I want to become even better" and sweats through training. This has not changed even after being selected for the Japan national team last year. There is no end to his great ambition. The endless journey of Taishi continues.
CAMP VOICE vol.16 Keigo HIGASHI
There is a familiar scene at the camp now. Since the beginning of the camp, Kei KOIZUMI has been learning how to kick from Keigo HIGASHI. Gradually, the effects can be seen in practice and games. As time passed, more and more players joined in. On the 6th day of the Itoman camp, Takahiro KO and Kouta TOKIWAI also joined, and it became a "Keigo Juku". I asked the leader of the juku, wearing the number 10 jersey.
Q, The after-school practice that started with player Koizumi has gradually spread. In fact, there have been scenes where good passes have come from player Koizumi.
A, I had been telling Koizumi since last season, but he may not have had an image of himself. However, he said, "I want to do it, Keigo-kun," so I openly accepted it. Although he is a rival for the position, if there is something to learn or teach, I want to tell everyone. Players with the physicality like Koizumi and Takahiro KO need to think about their soccer career from here on, and the taste of play and the quality of passes become necessary. As you get older, your playing style also expands, so I think it starts from making them aware of that. The final feeling must be grasped by oneself, but the timing and way of thinking can be conveyed, so it is definitely better to have more players who can make good passes from the midfield, especially with fast players on the front line.
Q, for example, if Koizumi is not only a midfielder, but also used as a full-back like last season, it will be a big plus for the team as it increases the number of passers.
A, I have also talked to Koizumi about that. If we can play like a fake side back and come into the center, the opponent will also be reluctant to pass behind us. Although Takahashi and Tokiwa are still inexperienced, they won't have more options unless they practice. On the other hand, if they practice, they can kick with confidence, so I told everyone, "Let's do it this season."
Q, it also leads to nurturing my rival.
A, If the level of your rivals increases, it will lead to more things you need to do and contribute to your own growth. Although the strengths may differ, if you can do the same things, you will think about what to use as your next weapon. It's a chance for yourself, and rather, you want to teach. It's lame to say "I don't want to" when they come to you and say "Please teach me" (laughs). They also want to grow, so that's why they say that. It's not forced, and it's nice to have the consciousness of wanting to learn and grow. In that case, I will teach you without hiding anything. It's fun, you know.
Text by Kyohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
