As the camp enters its 9th day, tomorrow will be the final day of the Okinawa Kunigami camp. The relationships between players have deepened through the camp, and a sense of unity can be felt from the atmosphere of the training.
Today's training focused on confirming the quality of passes and the coordination between players in both offense and defense.
One of the important build-up training methods to reach the goal is being constructed by the staff and players during the camp period, with detailed checks by coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI and his staff. Each player on the pitch will input the overall coordination into their body and mind, such as movements to drop back towards their own goal, movements to break through the opponent's defensive line, and movements to receive the ball.
Of course, good defense leads to good offense. In order to win the ball in high positions, the defense players control the front line players with precise coaching. Throughout the season, Coach CKLAMOVSKI has emphasized the hard work and strength in both offense and defense, and we can see this reflected in the players' play.
After the end of practice, an interview was conducted with player number 8, Takahiro KO.
Q, the camp has reached its 9th day. How do you perceive the team's impression as you go through rigorous training?
A, As I felt before joining Tokyo, I have the impression that the team is made up of players with high individual abilities. There are many wonderful players, and although it took a little time to get used to the team, there are many players who are easy to communicate with, and I myself am conscious of communicating both on and off the pitch. I am able to spend fulfilling time here.
Q, Were there any moments of confusion due to the tactical differences with Albirex Niigata?
A, Of course there were, but the team and the coach are different, and naturally, the style of play expected of me is also different. I joined Tokyo with confidence in what I have built up so far, but there were many times when I couldn’t adjust as I wanted. However, I believe that if I cannot clearly meet what is expected of me here in Tokyo, I will not be able to raise myself to a higher level. I enjoy being able to play while experimenting every day, and since Tokyo has its own style of soccer, I want to grow stronger and better while feeling my potential.
Q, Has the team's character become clearer through communication on and off the pitch?
There are many veteran players and young players, but I got the impression that there are few mid-level players. I also play as a defensive midfielder and try to understand the whole team.The young players were teased on the second day of the camp (laughs).
Q, Finally, please tell us your enthusiasm for the opening match.
A, First of all, as a player who joined this season, I want to focus on getting used to Tokyo's team style and avoiding injuries. From here, practical training will continue, so while expressing my own style, I want to adjust well to the team's tactics. For the team's victory and for my own further growth, I want to make the remaining period of the camp a good time.
