Part 1 began with a speech by Chairman Murai. Afterward, players from all 18 J1 clubs were introduced in the order of their opening match fixtures and appeared on stage. Antlers will face Shimizu away on March 8. Shoji was introduced last, along with Honda Takuya of Shimizu, and they shook hands firmly.
Shoji and Honda appearing on stage
After all 18 club players had assembled, an explanation of the J-League's "Plus Quality Project" was given, followed by the introduction of the four clubs participating in the AFC Champions League.
The four players lined up at the front of the stage, and Shoji was the first to speak about his aspirations. Shoji stated powerfully, "The ACL is the only title we, Kashima Antlers, don't have, so bringing it to Kashima is one of our goals. Whether it's the J-League, Asia, or the world, our style of soccer won't change. We want to play our traditional, winning Antlers-style football."
After a photo session, Part 1 concluded.
In Part 2, the coaches and players conducted interviews at each club's booth, which were set up according to the opening match fixtures. Coach Cerezo and player Shoji continued to be interviewed almost without a break during the approximately one-hour interview period. Hiroshi Kagawa, a football writer who received the FIFA Presidential Award at the FIFA Ballon d'Or in January, also visited the Antlers' booth.
Coach Cerezo chatting with Kagawa
C.R.O. Nakata busy exchanging business cards and responding to interviews
During an interview for "Nico Nico Live Broadcasting" held at the venue, a three-shot of Yutaka Akita, C.R.O. Nakata, and player Shoji was realized. When asked about his aspirations by Akita, his senior wearing jersey number 3, Shoji replied, "I'm only thinking about winning!"
The interviews at the booths proceeded in a calm atmosphere. Coach Cerezo and player Shoji renewed old acquaintances with Honda, who played for Antlers until mid-2013. There was also a scene where Paulo Autuori, who had become the coach of C Osaka, visited the Antlers' booth and chatted with coach Cerezo.
Coach Cerezo striking a fighting pose towards Honda
Coach Cerezo and Coach Autuori chatting
Trophies from various tournaments were also displayed at the venue. Antlers will participate in J1, Yamazaki Nabisco Cup, Emperor's Cup, and the AFC Champions League. The FIFA Club World Cup awaits after conquering Asia. The battle to win all titles will begin with the AFC Champions League Group Stage Matchday 1 against Western Sydney Wanderers on the 25th.
