For the local Ishikawa prefecture──
The transformation of a player who puts his feelings out there
MF 45 Kojiro YASUDA
Special content introducing the all-blue-red warriors who will challenge the 2024 season. What are the players thinking and what kind of determination are they approaching the year with as they prepare for the opening? The players' stories, filled with club love, thirst for titles, aspirations for success, and the roles they must fulfill - all while keeping in their hearts the lessons learned at Tochigi SC and striving for growth. Kojiro YASUDA, who is determined to bring light to his hometown of Ishikawa Prefecture, which was affected by the Noto Peninsula earthquake, and to himself by achieving results.
After completing a year of training at Tochigi SC, not only did my hair grow a little, but I also experienced a lot of personal growth. It was my first transfer and living in an unfamiliar place was a continuous learning experience. Yasuda said, "The environment and team style were completely different, so I was able to learn a different type of soccer," and continued.
"I think it's something that is said about any team, but I realized that without intensity in play and continuous movement, we cannot achieve results. I think I was able to feel that intensity when I went to Tochigi."
Last season, I only played in 13 games in the Meiji Yasuda J2 League. Due to injuries and other factors, I was unable to compete throughout the season. However, by facing myself, I also had many realizations. What he said as "lack" sounded like "things I want to improve" to me.
"I have had several injuries and had to face my body and raise my level. There was also some impatience in that process. As it stands, my play is still not settled. While I am still feeling my way through, I think the challenge is to have continuous movement and game stamina for 90 minutes. I want to focus on that."
Before the start of the new season, which returned to Tokyo, there was a growing sense of crisis as they were unable to participate in the red and white scrimmage. However, there were also moments where they tried to appeal in the given short time by charging into the muddy goal and shaking the net.
"The most important thing is to run until the end. Personally, I want results. If I don't score or assist, I can't play in the game and I can't make an impression. I want to be conscious of that and do my best."
I had never seen such a sight where thoughts and feelings were transferred to the play from Yasuda, who had been quiet until then. There must be feelings for Ishikawa Prefecture where he was born and raised, and for Hokuriku. On New Year's Day this year, the Noto Peninsula earthquake caused tremendous damage in various places. In hopes of a speedy recovery, Yasuda will bring energy to the place where he learned the fun of soccer.
"My hometown was hit by a natural disaster, and even people I know were affected. I hope that by doing my best, I can bring some energy and be a source of encouragement for those people. It would make me happy if I could contribute to their efforts in a positive way and change my mindset to one where I feel like I have to do something."
The season of hope and competition has begun. Ahead, there may be big changes waiting.
Text by Tadashi BABA (Freelance Writer)
