The annual excitement of high school baseball fans across Japan reached another level as the drawing for the 97th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament was held on March 7, 2025, at the Mainichi Shimbun Osaka Head Office. With matches scheduled to begin on March 18, 2025, teams are now gearing up for what promises to be another thrilling series of games at the iconic Koshien Stadium.
This year’s tournament features notable matchups, including the powerhouse team Yokohama from Kanagawa, who will face Tokiwa Koryo from Wakayama. Winning last autumn’s Meiji Jingu Tournament, Yokohama enters the tournament with high expectations and aspirations to secure victory. “We’ve put in the practice and are ready for our first match against Tokiwa Koryo,” said the team’s coach during the draw event. This matchup signifies not only another challenge for Yokohama but also continues their impressive legacy as contenders.
Another exciting encounter showcases Kenta Takasaki from Gunma, last year’s champions, as they gear up to take on Meitoku Gijuku from Kochi. Kenta Takasaki achieved victory after defeating Yokohama during the Kanto Tournament finals and is determined to defend their title this year. "This is another opportunity for us to challenge ourselves and provide the best performance we can," expressed their coach, reflecting the team’s seriousness and ambition.
The 21st Century Frame team, Sakito from Nagasaki, also caught the spotlight during the draws. They have made history with their first appearance at the Koshien after overcoming strong rivals to qualify. Their extraordinary run, described as a “miracle once-in-a-century,” captures the hearts of fans as they prepare to face Toyo University Himeji from Hyogo. Coach Sakamoto of Sakito remarked, “Our team embodies the spirit of determination and teamwork; we’re here to prove ourselves.”
Notably, the anticipation around this tournament extends to several other matchups highlighting rivalries and historic moments. The face-off between Waseda Jitsugyo from Tokyo and Takamatsu Sho from Kagawa is especially significant, as it mirrors the final match from the inaugural tournament held way back in 1924. Such history wraps around this exciting matchup, where both teams are expected to entertain the audience with their skills on the diamond.
The first day of the tournament lineup begins with the opening match between Ryukyu from Oita and Nison Gakusha Daifuzoku from Tokyo at 10:30 AM, followed by other games scheduled throughout the day. Notably, the tournament will have games starting earlier on the following days, with the first game kicking off at 9:00 AM from the second day onward to accommodate the packed schedule.
The players’ oath at the opening ceremony will be led by Kawamura Kenshin, captain of Tokiwa Koryo. “It’s an honor to represent our team and the spirit of sportsmanship as we head to Koshien,” he said, reflecting the pride of all teams participating.
Enthusiastic supporters are sure to flock to the stands of Koshien Stadium, not just for the spectacle of sport but also to witness the young athletes’ dreams play out. With numerous teams eyeing the title and established programs hoping for victory, this spring's tournament is set to be unforgettable.
The tournament will run from March 18 through March 30, with the final game planned for the latter date if the schedule continues to progress smoothly. This year's event not only symbolizes high school baseball's enduring legacy but also epitomizes the passion and dedication of young athletes across the nation.
Each match will capture the essence of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and competition, promising another thrilling chapter to Japan’s rich high school baseball history.