This is an English translation of the Yokohama Grits Official Match Day Program vol.05, handed out to fans that came to KOSE Ice Arena on Dec. 6 and 7.
Yuji Iwamoto Head Coach Interview
Q : What kind of team has the Grits become this season?
Iwamoto HC :
We’ve played 15 games so far, and what we’ve consistently focused on is teamwork in games.
Rather than relying on individual skill, we emphasize having everyone working in the same direction and playing with discipline as a team.
Teammates will cover for each other’s mistakes, and all five players defend and attack together.
We strive for this fast pace, and we want to be a team that inspires and energizes our spectators.
Q : What does the team need to improve in the second half of the season?
Iwamoto HC :
We are aiming to balance defensive improvement with an offensive approach.
While we’ve gained enough skills to make a few more goals, but our defense which we greatly improved last season, is leading us to give away points to the opponent.
We will not only refine our defense, but also increasing our energy and power so that all five players can execute forechecks more aggressively, while actively stealing the puck.
By speeding up our teammate’s transitions and working together as a unified force, we aim to become a more evolved team.
Q : Any specifics that you want the fans to see on the rink?
Iwamoto HC :
It’s our hope that the entire team will be in the same good condition as they were in the season opener.
Alex, who was absent due to injury has returned, making us even stronger than ever.
Our goal is to play fast-paced hockey with intense, powerful playstyle.
We’ll do our best to bring excitement and enthusiasm to the fans and unite the stadium in a chorus of “Go Grits Go!”
Kai Tomita GK Interview
Q : What areas have you felt confident about this season, and what areas would you like to improve on?
Tomita GK :
I’ve been given the opportunity to play this season, and I’ve been able to bring my rhythm to the rink, which is a good thing, and my stability as a Golden Ring player definitely is a positive.
However, I still have a long way to go to achieve my goal of a 50% win rate this year.
I want to further hone my split-second decision-making and timing to win every game and come out victorious in the end.
Q : How do you control tension and pressure during matches?
Tomita GK :
During games, I accept all the tension and pressure.
But the reason I stay focused is because I’ve mentally prepared to play as “my usual” style.
Practice and games are completely different.
Whether I score or fail to block a shot, believing in my skills and the hard work I’ve put in usually calms me down in a natural way.
Q : When you’re defending at home, what kind of energy do you think the atmosphere of the fans will have tonight?
Tomita GK :
The towels and banners I can see at home, and everything about the cheers from the fans, really ignites my spirit.
The support from Shin-Yokohama is not just music and voice, but the very force that allows us to fight together, giving us the courage to take that final step and the strength to stand up again.
I would like to continue fighting alongside you all.
Juseo Park DF Interview
Q : What do you think of the atmosphere of the team and the city after joining the Yokohama Grits?
Park DF :
I played hockey in Korea for a long time, and when I joined the Grits, I was initially worried if I could adapt to a life in a different country.
However, thanks to the warm support of my teammates and staff, I was able to quickly adjust.
The environment is great, allowing me to concentrate on practice, and I’m also enjoying the city of Yokohama.
Q : What do you think is the most challenging aspect of playing in the Japanese league?
Park DF :
In the university league, I played about 10 games a year, but this season I’ve played many games as a professional for the first time.
I struggled with the faster pace of coming games in the beginnig. It was tough because it was something very different from college, and I had to think ahead and make quick decisions, but with each game I’ve been able to improve and learn more.
I’m still inexperienced, but I want to give it my all in every game and continue to improve.
Q : How would you describe yourself as a Grits player to the fans?
Park DF :
My strength is that I never give up, even when faced with difficulties, and I do my best to fulfill the role I’ve been assigned.
This tenacity has also been useful in competition, where I’ve worked hard, found solutions, and overcome obstacles.
Each time, I feel like I’ve grown.
I will continue to use this strength, always play with my all, and contribute to the team’s victory.
I hope you will continue to support me.
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