1/14 Training
On the third day of the Okinawa Kunigami camp, we fully engaged our minds and bodies at Kaigin Field Kunigami. On this day as well, we focused on training with the ball and worked up a sweat.
Coach Rikizo MATSUHASHI demands initiative from the players during training. In the pass and control session held that morning, while specifying routes, players were encouraged to use one-twos and drop passes spontaneously, and they were asked to choose whether to stand on the left or right while imagining a dummy as the opposing defense. Even if they make mistakes, they continue without stopping, which is also a characteristic of the training. That is why, without fearing mistakes, bold plays have naturally increased.
Moreover, when such clever plays emerge, it is said, "Let's respond to good plays," and naturally, voices of admiration can be heard from all over the pitch. The fulfilling training has completed its third day, and the new coach's style is becoming more pronounced.
FOCUS ON
The "FOCUS ON" captured by the official photographer on the third day of camp has chosen this shot. Yukinori YAMAKAWA, who is in his 26th season with the team, sends a serious gaze onto the pitch. The usually gentle Yama-san showed a momentary expression that reflected the face of a craftsman who continues to support the blue and red.
CAMP VOICE vol.3 Kento HASHIMOTO
On the third day of the Okinawa Kunigami camp, 'CAMP VOICE' features Kento HASHIMOTO, who put on the blue and red training gear for the first time in four and a half seasons. After joining the team from the afternoon practice the previous day, he showcased the high-quality skills of 'stopping and kicking' that he has been particular about since his time in Tokyo. Furthermore, although he himself chuckles and says, 'It's not my character,' he is expected to take on a leading role in the team. He expressed his excitement for new challenges, saying, 'I want to break out of my shell,' as he spoke to us wearing the blue and red number 18.
Q: Please tell us about the circumstances and your thoughts regarding the transfer.
A, I had been in talks with Tokyo for about two years. This season, I was playing for SD Eibar (Spain), but due to the situation where I couldn't get many matches, I received a strong offer from Tokyo and returned with a considerable determination.
Q: How did you feel when you received the offer?
A, I was moved by the desire of the strengthening department to win titles and the fact that they needed me. I have always been concerned about Tokyo, but as we have not been able to compete for the championship, my desire to contribute with my own strength and to win titles with my own power has been growing day by day.
Q: Please tell us your impression of the current team.
A, there are many young players, and with the change of coach, I think the atmosphere of the practice is very good.
Q: You will be playing with the number 18 from now on. What are your thoughts on the number 18?
A, if I come back, I wanted to wear number 18. Of course, I want to carry the feelings of Naohiro (Naohiro ISHIKAWA, Community Generator) and Manato (Manato SHINADA, JEF United Chiba) and make the number 18 even more significant.
Q: After being away from Tokyo for four and a half seasons, what kind of play do you want to show to the fans and supporters you meet again?
A, I want to show my characteristic passionate play, and I want to contribute to the victory with my performance. I want to play at Ajinomoto Stadium soon.
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
