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We will win nationwide.
"I could have done more" - a regret
I want to make it happen in the best way possible.

College of Arts and Sciences 4th Grade
Baseball Club Captain
Graduate of Shinsōkan High School, Fukuoka Prefecture

Takuto Morita

Main content

Days of practice without hesitation

Influenced by my father, I started playing baseball in first grade. I've loved playing ball since I was little, so baseball has always been close to me. I chose J. F. Oberlin University because the study abroad program was very attractive. When I was in junior high, I was captivated by the World Baseball Classic, which made me strongly want to try playing baseball abroad someday. Unfortunately, due to the impact of COVID-19, I haven't been able to go abroad, but if I get the chance, I'd like to try studying abroad.
 
Although I'm now the team captain, when I first entered high school, I was surprised by the high level of competition around me. Many of my teammates came from strong schools that had played in the Koshien tournament, and I wasn't sure if my baseball skills would be enough. But I never got discouraged; instead, I told myself, "I'm not losing in every aspect," and I continued to practice. I believe that being able to play on the first team is because my attitude towards baseball was recognized.

The meaning behind the slogan "Thoroughness in the Ordinary"

One of the great things about J. F. Oberlin University 's baseball club is that the overall team atmosphere is cheerful. Every year, we create an atmosphere where upperclassmen can easily talk and communicate across grade levels. Of course, that's because I want each individual to take initiative in baseball. During meetings and play, students of all grades share their opinions and are encouraged to think for themselves and play baseball. During matches, difficult situations often arise with no clear answers.
 
The baseball team's slogan for 2023 is "Thoroughness in the Ordinary." We wanted to raise the overall level of the team by doing the ordinary things so thoroughly that others cannot imitate us. The slogan will be the core of our activities for the year. To ensure that everyone shares the same mindset, we gathered opinions from each grade level and tried to reflect everyone's opinions. We still have many challenges, but we want to continue working towards our goal of "winning at the national level" without neglecting any practice.

Our goal is to win the championship and play baseball that will lead to success next year.

The spring league, which they aimed for the championship overall, ended with a disappointing 4th place. Neither the club members nor the staff are satisfied. After the league ended, we discussed with the fourth-year students, thinking there might have been more we could have done. Currently, we are practicing hard for the autumn league. I believe that everyone, including the second team, needs to improve their level, so I try to participate in their practices as much as possible and communicate with everyone. In autumn, including the stands, we create an atmosphere that allows you to experience a sense of unity more than ever before. Not just the members who are playing, but everyone should help energize J. F. Oberlin University baseball.
 
In the autumn league, we absolutely have to win the league championship. I want the audience to watch a fun, energetic, and J. F. Oberlin University-style baseball. To ensure this continues into next year and beyond, I want to encourage each athlete's awareness and aim for growth in both technique and mental strength.