First, they engaged in physical training under the eaves. After a thorough warm-up, they divided into groups of three or four and went through their routines. The equipment used was the same as before, but Coach Satouchi's instructions varied slightly each time. It was a rigorous training to strengthen the whole body, including bench presses, barbell lifts, core training, and step work. Players like Ogasawara and Uchida counted repetitions and loudly encouraged their teammates.
After about an hour of intensive physical training, the players completed all the routines and then went onto the pitch for combination practice. After Coach Oiwa explained using a whiteboard, they meticulously checked the offensive and defensive coordination in plays restarting from a throw-in. Coaches Yanagisawa and Hata also gave detailed instructions, and the training progressed with an emphasis on passing speed and positioning. If there was any play that lacked concentration, loud voices would come not only from the coaches but also from the surrounding players. In a very tense atmosphere, the players continued to strive for improvement.
The morning practice lasted over two hours, ending after 11:30 AM. After cooling down, some players were seen enjoying a juggling game. Centered around Ogasawara, new recruits Anzai and Inukai also joined in, creating a lively atmosphere.
Then, afternoon practice began at 3:30 PM. The training, which concluded five consecutive days of two-a-day sessions, started on the pitch from the beginning. After warming up with juggling games and passing drills, they conducted shooting practice from crosses.
This training wasn't simply about crossing the ball; it involved passing, running into space, and connecting with players in front of the goal. Rookie player Yamaguchi received applause from the coaches for his sharp through pass, and Ueda scored with a powerful jumping volley. Perhaps because it was Saturday, today saw the highest number of spectators come to watch the practice, and cheers could be heard from the stands. Coach Yanagisawa called out, "They're excited!" making the training even more enthusiastic.
After that, they performed several sprints in a line, followed by a 7-on-7 mini-game. New recruit Anzai showed bold breakthroughs, and the competition between Suzuki and Shoji was very intense. Goalkeeper Kwoun Sun-Tae continued to give loud instructions, demonstrating his strong desire to secure a regular spot.
This afternoon practice ended in just over an hour. For the remaining 30 minutes, adjustments tailored to each player's condition were made, such as long kick practice and thorough cool-downs and stretching. GK Yamada, who is participating from the youth team, practiced kicks with GK coach Sato, hitting many accurate feeds.
This concludes five consecutive days of two-a-day training. Tomorrow, the seventh day after arriving in Miyazaki, a soccer school is scheduled for the morning. The afternoon will be the first off-day since the camp started, and the players will work on refreshing their minds and bodies and adjusting their condition.
Uchida:
"(Fans and supporters) are a presence that strengthens and brings out my play, and there have been many times when the voices of the supporters spurred my legs when I was at my toughest. Schalke always had a wonderful stadium with about 70,000 people, but I want to feel that kind of atmosphere at Kashima too."
Kubota:
"It's my fourth year, and I haven't been able to play much, but this year I'll work hard to consistently be involved in games, so please continue to support me."
Please see Antlers Mobile for player interviews.