Hachioji CampusRising Stars Shine at All-Japan University Semi-Hardball Baseball Tournament

In a thrilling showcase of skill and determination, Teikyo University's semi-hardball baseball team made a mark at the 2nd All-Japan University semi-hardball baseball East-West competition Koshien tournament, held at the iconic Hanshin Koshien Stadium in Nishinomiya City, Hyogo Prefecture, on Tuesday, November 14, 2023.

Yohei Yamazaki, a standout pitcher and fourth-year student in the Faculty of Economics, took the mound for Teikyo University, while the team's manager, Yu Yoshida, a second-year student in the Faculty of Liberal Arts, played a crucial role as the scorer. This prestigious tournament, organized by students to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the semi-hardball baseball federation, had faced cancellation the previous year due to inclement weather. However, this year it roared to life, bringing together the best teams from the East and West. The day kicked off with an exhibition match between last year's selected members, including Teikyo University's own Akari Okada, a graduate who contributed as a student trainer.

In the afternoon, Yamazaki showcased his prowess as a member of the East Japan selection team, delivering powerful and dignified pitching during the 5th and 6th innings. His performance stirred excitement among the spectators, affirming Teikyo University's commitment to supporting the endeavors of students passionate about promoting semi-hardball baseball.

■Pitcher Yohei Yamazaki (4th year Faculty of Economics)
Last year, I saw the disappointment etched on countless faces when the event got called off due to bad weather. It really hit home how much effort went into organizing this project. Coming into this year, I had a mindset of wanting to play a small part in making this tournament a success. Post-game, Koshien Stadium was buzzing with people, and their expressions radiated a sense of achievement distinct from the previous year. It struck me that success, despite the countless hours and challenges faced by many, has a profound impact on people's emotions. Being present for such a remarkable moment wasn't just about my individual efforts; it was a collective achievement involving my coaches, teammates, family, and steadfast supporters. Reflecting on this, I aim to live my life with a constant awareness of the people to whom I owe my current position. Armed with a background in semi-hardball baseball, I'm committed to doing all I can to contribute to its growth and boost its popularity.
Being able to witness this wonderful moment is not only due to my own efforts, but also thanks to my coaches, teammates, family, and those who always support me. I would like to continue living my life by thinking about who I owe to whom I am where I am today. As someone who has a background in semi-hardball baseball, I will do my best to contribute to the development of semi-hardball baseball and increase its popularity.
?
■Scorer Yu Yoshida (2nd year, Faculty of Liberal Arts)
This time around, I had the incredible honor of being chosen as the scorer for the East Japan selection team, tagging along with the squad for three memorable days. Picked from a sizable pool of applicants, including some of my seniors, I'll admit I was filled with both anxiety and nerves. The worry about how much I could contribute to the team lingered, but as I collaborated with the selected managers in gearing up for the tournament day, a sense of fulfillment washed over me, and I resolved to give it my all. And I did.
Throughout the tournament, I witnessed the remarkable skill level of the selected players and staff. Their proactive approach and impeccable etiquette took me by surprise. Plunging myself into an entirely unfamiliar environment allowed me to crystalize my ideal self. The images and experiences from those three days remain vivid in my memory; it felt like a dream. Competing on the Koshien stage, a place I never thought I'd set foot, alongside my closest friends and clinching the top spot in Japan – it's a life treasure and an experience I'll forever take pride in. The view from the Koshien benches was awe-inspiring. The lively players on the field, the infectious joy of everyone engaged in the game – it was invigorating. I might have been the happiest person at that moment, witnessing top-level plays that I couldn't afford to miss, meticulously recording each one in my score.
Our sincere gratitude goes out to everyone who supported us, the tournament project team, and everyone associated with the event. Through this tournament, we aim to introduce more people to the world of semi-hardball baseball, making it a more accessible sport. As a participant who deeply loves semi-hardball baseball, I'll leverage this experience to contribute to its development.

Click here for information about Teikyo University semi-hardball baseball club
Click here for Teikyo University Semi-Hard Baseball Club Instagram

To the topic List