Yokohama Grits Official Matchday Program vol.01
Interview section of the program for 2 Grits athletes.
Yuto Osawa
Q. How are you feeling heading into the new season?
With our new additions on board, I feel like we’ve put together a really solid group heading into opening night. I’m genuinely excited that a new season is here — I can’t wait for it to get started. It also means a lot to me that our opening game falls on my company’s match day again this year, so I’m expecting a big crowd and a lot of support. I want to reward everyone’s expectations with a strong start right out of the gate!
Q. As someone in a leadership role, what is most important to you personally this season?
This is another season as captain, and I want to approach it with even more responsibility than last year. We had some good performances in the previous season, but we left too many games on the table — games we should have won. This year, I want us to be more focused on results. I especially want to step up in the tough moments and the critical stretches — make the plays that swing momentum and help the team. My goal is to build an atmosphere where every single player feels confident going into battle.
A message to the fans — what is your commitment going into this season?
Thank you so much for always cheering us on! Even when results haven’t gone our way, your unwavering support has been a massive source of strength for all of us. This season, I want to pay you back with results — I want us to share real joy together. Please keep fighting alongside us until the very last game. We’re counting on you!
Ryoki Ikeda
Q. How do you feel stepping onto the ice for opening night?
I’m truly happy to be starting another new season in front of all of you. There’s a real sense of excitement as a fresh chapter begins, and I genuinely can’t wait to play in front of everyone again. I want to carry gratitude and respect for our supporters with me as I step onto the ice for that opening game — that feeling is something I never want to lose.
Q. What aspect of your game do you most want fans to watch this season?
I’d say my strengths are my speed and my ability to create plays, so I’d love for fans to focus on that. But I also want to add a little bit of flair to the smaller details of my game this season — those subtle moments of creativity that you might miss if you’re not looking closely. So please keep your eyes peeled — I think you’ll enjoy what you see!
Q. A message to the fans as we head into the new season together:
To all our fans and supporters — thank you so much for your incredible passion and energy. Being able to enter a new season is something that truly wouldn’t be possible without your support. This season, I want every single person connected to the Yokohama Grits — players, staff, and fans — to share the joy of winning a championship together. Every one of us on this team will give absolutely everything we have. Please keep pushing us forward with your support — we need you with us every step of the way!
