First was the opening ceremony. Coach Yanagisawa emceed and greeted the children. Then, player Machida was designated as the "opening declaration" speaker. He performed a one-shot gag, which he also showcased at last year's open stadium, hyping up the crowd with "Unprecedented, never-before-seen... opening declaration!" Furthermore, new recruit Anzai also showed off a one-shot gag, and the children burst into laughter. Although they were a bit nervous at first, the atmosphere became friendly.
The players joined their respective elementary school teams and warmed up together. Kento Misao, who joined the circle of children doing warm-up exercises with loud voices, was all smiles. Player Yamamoto served as a passer for shooting practice, encouraging the children. Player Endo was surprised to see a child make a sharp shot. He was even more surprised, asking, "Sixth grader? Oh, you're a fourth grader?"
After warming up with their teams, the competition began. Some players played as goalkeepers, while others waited for the ball in the front line, but everyone enjoyed their time with the children. Of course, all the players conveyed their commitment to winning to the children. After losing the ball, they were immediately instructed to win it back.
Among them, player Kanazaki shouted particularly loudly and was even happier than the children after a goal was scored. Each match was intense, and the competition progressed. Coach Yanagisawa, who emceed, and Manager Oiwa praised the children's play while keeping an eye on each court.
The competition had two winning teams. In one of the finals, an equalizer was scored in the last play, and the decision went to a penalty shootout. With everyone watching, the team of Leo Silva and Ito emerged victorious. Once the outcome was decided, a big round of applause was given to both teams for their excellent effort.
At the end of the soccer clinic, all Antlers players and children had a full-court match. During the Antlers' huddle, Maeda Taira, who participated from the youth team, was even tasked with leading the cheer. Using over 10 balls, the players and children had a fun time playing.
At the closing ceremony, the children took group photos with the players from each team. Then, a representative child gave a thank you speech and presented Miyazaki's specialty strawberries.
From the afternoon until tomorrow morning, it will be the first day off since the camp began. The players are focusing on mental and physical rejuvenation and conditioning, preparing for tomorrow afternoon's practice.
Player Ueda
"We are currently building our bodies firmly in camp and preparing for the season. We will continue to prepare thoroughly in camp to build a body that can fight throughout the year. Please continue to support us. Thank you."
Player Yuto Misao
"Last season ended without us winning, so this year, we're all working together to win the title, and we're doing our best in camp. Let's fight together again. Thank you for your support."
Please see Antlers Mobile for player interviews.