Training on January 23
On the 12th day of the Okinawa Kunigami Camp, the team reviewed defense in each zone at Kaigin Field Kunigami and worked up a sweat breaking down plays in front of the goal.
After taking the first day off of this camp the previous day to recharge, the players gathered again on the training ground. While pursuing the skill level and precision built up through training so far, practice menus with a greater focus on actual match situations were also added.
With the opening finally approaching, head coach Rikizo MATSUHASHI has also begun to tackle the "new challenge" he spoke of right after starting. Throughout this, the coach has constantly been troubled with the single-minded desire to "bring out their strengths even more." During the camp, he communicated with many players and must have gathered various hints. Now, the work of translating those into actions on the pitch has begun.
FOCUS ON
The official photographer’s camp photo project “FOCUS ON.” On the 12th day of the Okinawa Kunigami Camp, the focus was on Masataka KOBAYASHI, now in his second professional season. Shota YAMASHITA, the goalkeeper coach who took the position this season, brought various balls to this camp, and on this day, training involved attacking volleyballs kicked from close range. Pay attention to KOBAYASHI’s eyes as he throws himself at the ball, casting aside fear. He never closed his eyes until the very end, filled with the determination to absolutely stop it.
CAMP VOICE vol.10 Teppei OKA
In his rookie year last season, Teppei OKA appeared in 19 matches and scored 2 goals in the Meiji Yasuda J1 League. He also expanded his versatility by being deployed as a left side back. Now entering his second professional season with expectations for further growth, he says, "I want to become a presence that leads the team and brings victories." To hear his passionate thoughts for this season that will resonate throughout Japan, we spoke with OKA.
Q: The second professional season is about to begin.
A: The coach has changed, and at first, I was confused by the completely different approach. However, he communicated with us and gave advice on how things could be improved. Now, it’s easier to work with, and I understand what the coach is saying. The entire team’s response to the coach’s proposals has been positive, so I think we are spending the camp in a good atmosphere.
Q: In your rookie year, you gradually became more involved in games. Are you aiming to be in the starting lineup from the opening match 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 a teammate from your academy days?
A: I feel happy, but also a sense of tension and pressure as a tough competition is about to begin. I have a strong desire to play together in matches and help Tokyo win.
Q: Many players who were raised in the academy are also enrolled this season.
A, Elementary school students enrolled in the school, as well as players in the U-15 and U-18 teams, have spent their academy days hoping to become figures admired when they turn professional. I believe there is meaning and value in academy graduates succeeding in that regard.
Q: Last season, you were often deployed as a side back, and there seemed to be few opportunities to showcase one of your attractions, the long feed. Do you want fans and supporters to know more about that aspect as well?
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 learning from the veteran Masato MORISHIGE, I want to show play this season with the responsibility to lead the team to victory and to the championship.
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
