Report

On Wednesday, January 14th, a press conference for the new team structure and new player additions was held at the Kashima Soccer Stadium Interview Room. From Antlers, Representative Director and President Shigeru Ihata, coach Atsushi Yanagisawa, club staff member Koji Nakata, and new players Hwang Seok-ho, Takasaki, Kubota, Ohashi, and Yuma Suzuki were in attendance.

First, on behalf of the club, President Ihata announced this season's slogan, "RISE TO THE CHALLENGE ~Kakugo~ (Resolve)," as well as reinforcement policies, an introduction of new staff and players, and business policies.


"How to translate the generational change and overall team improvement that we have steadily pursued over the past two seasons into visible results is a major theme."



Next, Coach Yanagisawa gave a greeting.


"I'm happy to be back after eight years, and I once again feel a great sense of responsibility. I'm truly happy to be able to start my second career at my former club, where I began as a professional. I want to make the most of this opportunity and work hard to help Antlers become a top team in Japan and Asia."

Furthermore, CRO Nakata gave his inaugural address.


"After deciding to retire, I discussed various possibilities with the club. In the end, I concluded that being involved in the football business at Antlers is the best choice for me now. I built a career as a player, but I have no experience as staff. I want to effectively support and contribute based on what I've built as a player."

A three-shot photo session closed Part 1

After Part 1 concluded, the new players were introduced.

Hwang Seok-ho "I'm truly happy to join Antlers, a team that represents Japan. I hope to win through the daily competition and play at Kashima Stadium as soon as possible."

Hiroyuki Takasaki "Last year, I had the bitter experience of the team being relegated to J2, but I think I was able to show my strengths and grow during that time. I want to bring that to Antlers and contribute. Since I'm from Ibaraki, I want to make Ibaraki Prefecture even more exciting."

A familiar face, Lee Gang-haeng, returned to the team as Hwang Seok-ho's interpreter

Kazune Kubota "I want to work hard so I can play on the pitch at Kashima Stadium as soon as possible."

Naoshi Ohashi "As a youth team product, I will cherish each day and work hard to play in a top team match as soon as possible."

Yuma Suzuki "It was my dream since I was little, so I'm truly happy. I want to get on the pitch as soon as possible, express my gratitude to everyone who has supported me, and score many goals."

After each player's greeting, the presentation moved to the new uniform.



Finally, the five players gathered for a photo session wearing the home uniform.





We kindly ask for your continued support of Antlers this season!