The final whistle is the signal for the next match.

In 2023, we were able to conduct overseas tours for the first time in a while, but the biggest topic for the academy was undoubtedly the youth team's promotion to the Premier League. As COVID-19 and influenza began to spread toward the end of the year, the staff paid meticulous attention to the players' care, and we were able to face the final playoff and return victorious.

Under the theme of "training" set by Manager Yanagisawa at the beginning of the season, it may have been a year in which somewhat demanding requirements were placed on the youth players. However, thanks to that effort, we were able to win the Prince League Kanto and return to the Premier League for the first time since 2019, so it can be said that it was a fruitful year in which we were able to achieve the goals we had set in advance despite the hardships.

After the playoff match against Vegalta Sendai Youth, which was the final match of 2023, and after Manager Yanagisawa gave the team a closing speech, before returning to Kashima, I gathered the players who did not play in the match and those who had limited playing time, and conducted extra training. At that time, I threw the words to the players, "The final whistle is the signal for the next match." Because as soon as the match ends and the off-season begins, the next battle has already started.

The new season will come again very soon. In that sense, there is no seam in the players' battles. There are third-year players who will move on to their respective paths from the spring of 2024, and players who are already in the preparation stage for the next step, as if maintaining their own bodies for the next season. Even if their team or the place they fight changes, I want them to continue to carry over the mental strength they trained at Antlers without losing it. I will also support them.

Looking at the youth of 2024, we must once again build the team with the coaching staff for the battle in the Premier League. First, train without causing injuries. It may sound like a contradictory expression, but you cannot build a good team if you are afraid of risks. There is a need to strive to develop a group that can fight more boldly than in 2023.

There is no seam in our battle either.

Thank you for your continued support of the Antlers Academy in 2024 as well.