1/19
On the 8th day of the Okinawa Kunigami camp, the scheduled morning practice was canceled, and a barbecue was held for lunch. Players and staff deepened their camaraderie in preparation for the season opener.
The day before, we won our first practice match under the new system against Meiji Gakuin University with a score of 10-0, and on this day, everyone spent their time as they wished. In addition to the rehabilitation group and player Kizuna Kominato (a second-year student at Hosei University), who is set to join in January 2027, several players were also seen sweating it out at Kaigin Field Kunigami in the morning.
There are 5 days left in the Okinawa Kunigami camp. During this first camp, we will build a new foundation for the team.
FOCUS ON
The official photographer's selected camp photo project "FOCUS ON." On the 8th day of the Okinawa Kunigami camp, a three-shot featuring Kizuna KOMINATO, Yuto NAGATOMO, and Masato MORISHIGE was selected. As they were leaving the pitch after sweating together that day, Yuto NAGATOMO spotted the photographer and called out, "(Kominato) is said to be a big deal, so let's take a picture." When Masato MORISHIGE tried to pose for the photo as usual, Yuto NAGATOMO spread one hand and showcased "the goal of participating in five consecutive World Cups and the number 5 jersey." Prompted by that, Kizuna KOMINATO also raised one hand. Expectations are rising for KOMINATO's debut in blue and red, showing no fear even among World Cup warriors.
"We asked the players about their thoughts on XX"
The project "Ask the Players: Questions from 2025 SOCIO OFFICIAL MEMBERSHIP" has started, where we pose questions gathered from our members to the players.
The memorable 1st Round features Taishi Brandon NOZAWA. We asked the guardian, who just announced his marriage on the 17th of this month, five intriguing questions.
* Please note that some of the questions received may have been edited for clarity due to formatting reasons. Thank you for your understanding.
Q: Please tell me the reason you wear number 41. (Handle name: Tatsuya)
A: When I became a professional, the first number given to me by the team was 41. At first, I didn't have a strong attachment to it. However, personally, I am a Christian and love reading the Bible, and in Isaiah chapter 41, it says, 'God is with you. Do not be afraid.' It is similar to the lyrics of 'You’ll Never Walk Alone,' and I have developed a strong affection for it. In Japan, Christians make up about 1 percent, and I think it's nice to see that such a small world can receive encouragement. I will continue to work hard wearing number 41 this season.
Q: Please tell us about the saving scene that you remember the most or think you stopped well. (Handle name: Masato)
A: I think I did my best in my debut match in Tokyo. It was the match against Cerezo Osaka in the J1 League (August 6, 2023, Sec. 22). In my first league match, I could only focus on stopping, but it became a very special game as it led to 3 points.
Q: Please tell us about your routine after the match. (Handle name: Nishi)
A: Since I am married and have a wife at home, I am not sure how things will change from here... Matches are often held on weekends, so after the match, I often watched overseas football. I am not the type to be so excited that I can't sleep, but since the day after the match is often a day off, I felt like watching football.
Q: Is there anything you are conscious of during the game? Also, where do you pay attention after you get the ball? (Handle name: Suzu)
A: When defending, I try to predict what the opponent (forward) close to the goal is thinking. Of course, I observe what the ball holder is thinking and where they are looking. I also pay attention to where the forward is aiming and where the space is, and I try to share that with my fellow defenders. After catching the ball, I think it’s good if I can kick it to the opponent close to the goal or to the space behind the defense. However, if a forward has slipped behind and someone has entered the space created in front, I am also focused on getting the ball there to advance the team.
Q: Your slightly longer hair always looks great, but do you have any particular preferences for your hairstyle? (Handle name: Mogicchi)
A: There were times when my hair was as short as a buzz cut, and times when it was very long, but I've settled on my current hairstyle. I think having it too long or using a headband might not be good. If it shifts and obstructs my vision, it could be fatal as a goalkeeper. I wonder if this hairstyle suits me, so I've kept it at this length.
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
