Our club president, Ihata, gives a presentation.
Next, representatives from 14 official sponsors took the stage, and players presented them with pennants. After the presentation, all players who attended the party came on stage for a commemorative photo.
We interviewed Mr. Akira Hayama, President and Representative Director of RISO KAGAKU CORPORATION, who will be a new sponsor. RISO KAGAKU CORPORATION's logo will be displayed on the back hem of the uniform shirt, which was made available for sponsorship this season.
As a representative of the sponsors, Mr. Hiroshi Tanji, Senior Managing Executive Officer of LIXIL Corporation and Head of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Promotion Headquarters, delivered a greeting.
The customary Kagami Biraki (sake barrel breaking ceremony) was also held, with sponsors taking the stage. Coach Ishii and Player Representative Nishi also participated wearing happi coats.
The toast was led by Mr. Sadatoshi Hataya, President and Representative Director of Ibaraki Toyopet Co., Ltd. Since "kampai" (cheers) sounds the same as "kampai" (utter defeat), the toast was given with the call "Goal, Goal, Goal."
Coach Ishii expressed his gratitude and his determination for this season.
Afterward, it was time for conversation. The players enjoyed their time with the guests.
On stage, the players presented pennants to the ad board sponsors and suppliers. Four players, Yamamoto, Ito, Takasaki, and Kawamata, served as presenters, expressing gratitude for their ongoing support.
A commemorative plaque was presented to Ibaraki Toyopet Co., Ltd., celebrating 20 years of sponsorship.
Next, the 2016 season uniform was introduced. New recruits Machida and Hirato wore the 1st uniform, and Tanaka and Kakita wore the 2nd uniform as they stood on stage. C.R.O. Nakata served as the emcee again, and the four players introduced themselves. Then, Nike Japan explained the concept and features of the new uniform.
Afterward, the 2016 season official suits provided by NEW YORKER Co., Ltd. were unveiled. C.R.O. Nakata also emceed this segment, and transferred players Kushibiki, Nagaki, Bueno, and Misao showcased the suits. Misao also performed a one-shot gag for everyone.
Mr. Hiroshi Tomono, Advisor to Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation, spoke as a shareholder representative, leading a "Sanbonjime" (three-clap hand-clapping ritual) to pray for the club to win all titles this season, and the party concluded.
After the players left in order of their uniform numbers, there was a surprise announcement before Coach Ishii's departure, just like last year. Suddenly, Kanasaki's photo appeared on the screen, and it was announced that a basic agreement had been reached between the player and the club for a permanent transfer.
