We are pleased to announce that Naoki Soma, a former Kashima Antlers player, has been appointed as a first-team coach.
■ Name:
Naoki Soma
■ Born:
July 19, 1971, Shizuoka Prefecture
■ Playing Position:
DF
■ Career:
Takabe Elementary School Sports Club - Shimizu City Sixth Junior High School - Shimizu Higashi High School - Waseda University - Kashima Antlers (1994) - Tokyo Verdy 1969 (2002) - Kashima Antlers (2003) - Kawasaki Frontale (2004)
■ Official Match Records:
J1 League Total: 289 appearances, 10 goals (250 appearances, 10 goals for Kashima)
J2 League Total: 15 appearances, 0 goals
League Cup Total: 45 appearances, 3 goals (36 appearances, 3 goals for Kashima)
Emperor's Cup Total: *While professional player* 29 appearances, 0 goals (26 appearances, 0 goals for Kashima)
■ National Team Appearances:
Japan National Team: 58 appearances, 4 goals
・Participated in the 1998 FIFA World Cup
■ Coaching Career:
2008-2009 Kawasaki Frontale U-18 Advisor Coach
2009.08 U-20 Japan National Team Coach
2010 FC Machida Zelvia Manager
2011-2012 Kawasaki Frontale Manager
2013 Montedio Yamagata Head Coach
2014-2019 FC Machida Zelvia Manager
■ Comment from Mr. Soma:
"It is a great honor to be able to work for my former club, Kashima Antlers, after 17 years. I will fully support Coach Zago and do my best for the team. Thank you."