As captain,
Building a team that can fight without compromise

College of Health and Welfare 4th Grade
Girls' Volleyball Club Captain Side
Alumni of Aomori Nishi High School, Aomori Prefecture

Aizuki Soma

Main content

Players set their own goals

I often watched my mother's practice and matches while she enjoyed volleyball. Playing ball outside the court was fun, so I naturally started playing volleyball myself. I was unsure whether to continue competing at university, but my current coach invited me to J. F. Oberlin University. It was also great that they made the effort to come all the way to the match in Aomori.

What J. F. Oberlin University values is the individual's individuality. What goals to set is also up to the athletes. Thanks to our strong performance in 2022, we were able to realistically consider "how far we can compete." I believe that finishing 6th or higher in the first division league and reaching the top 4 at the East Japan Intercollegiate Championships is by no means out of reach.

Difficult times are precisely when there is room for improvement.

J. F. Oberlin University prides themselves on teamwork, but there were times in the spring league where they struggled to keep things on the same page. The key members have remained since last year, and although good results were expected in the spring league, we couldn't deliver results. At times like that, my teammates advised me, saying, "When you keep making mistakes, you can't make eye contact," and "I understand it's tough, but don't overdo your own things and try broadening your horizons." Because we shared a period when it was hard to see a way out, now we can train for the next match.

This year, I was appointed captain. I feel that this is an invaluable experience, as I have to focus not only on individual matters but also on the team as a whole. What I am focusing on is communication. In 2023, we had some highly talented first-year students join the team, and they are now playing as starters. At first, they seemed a bit hesitant, so I encouraged them to be more aware of what it means to wear a uniform. I want to create a team where each individual can be self-reliant while still being able to contribute to the team's strength.

Even in student life, be a role model for other students.

The issue that became apparent during the spring league was each player's attitude towards volleyball. Including myself, we saw areas where we were being complacent, so we discussed once again aiming to become a team that can "fight without compromise." For example, during warm-ups before practice, we run five laps around the court to warm up, but we had neglected the rule of timing ourselves. These are small details, but we are now reminding ourselves of the meaning behind each practice and striving to practice in a way that will benefit us in matches.

The girls' volleyball club is designated as a special strengthening club in J. F. Oberlin University. We have received a lot of support from universities and alumni, so we want to achieve results that allow us to give back. Not only in club activities but also in student life, we act to be a role model for students. We appreciate your continued support.

Interview date:
This was done in June 2023 for the "Obirin Sports" website.

As captain,Building a team that can fight without compromise

Main content

Players set their own goals

Difficult times are precisely when there is room for improvement.

Even in student life, be a role model for other students.

Related content

As captain,
Building a team that can fight without compromise