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 of 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 practice 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 discards his fear and dives for the ball. 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 recorded 2 goals in 19 appearances in the Meiji Yasuda J1 League last season during his rookie year. He has also expanded his versatility as a player 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 due to the completely different approach. However, we communicated, and I received advice on how to improve. 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 an upward trend, but are you aiming for a starting position at the beginning of this season?
A, I missed the starting lineup at the beginning of last season. Using that frustration as motivation, I was able to gradually build myself up, and I started to get involved in matches from the early part of the season. This season, I want to be a key player for the team from the start and become someone who can lead the team to victory. I am approaching training with that awareness. Players like Keita ENDO and many others have expressed that "we must win the championship," and I believe we have that responsibility as we play.
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 a tough competition begins. I have a strong desire to play in the match together and help Tokyo win.
Q: Many players who were raised in the academy are also enrolled this season.
Elementary school students who are in the school program, as well as players in U-15 and U-18, have spent their academy years hoping to become figures that others can admire when they turn professional. I believe there is meaning and value in having players from the academy succeed.
Q: Last season, there were many matches where you were used as a side back, and it felt like there were few opportunities to showcase one of your strengths, the long feed. 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, but I wasn't able to show it completely. In order for others to know that I can play like this, I want to challenge myself in that area this season.
Q: The coach mentioned that he wants you to take initiative and grow.
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)
