On April 5, 2025, at 13:00, the HARD OFF ECO Stadium Niigata will come alive as Komeri, a home improvement retailer, sponsors the Albirex Niigata Baseball Club for their special "Komeri Thanks Day." This event, aimed at enhancing community engagement through sports, promises an array of exciting activities for fans and attendees alike.
Komeri has taken strides to support the local baseball club, aligning with its philosophy of regional revitalization through sports culture. The collaboration aims to provide not only financial support but also enrich the community experience surrounding the team. "We are driven by a desire to create a vibrant sports culture and to expand services for our community," said a Komeri representative.
Fans attending the game against the Saitama Seibu Lions, which is set to take place on the same day, can look forward to fun-filled experiences. The stadium gates will open at 11:30 for general access, while the first 3,500 visitors will be greeted with original merchandise. Headlining the day will be several events, including the following:
1. A photo opportunity with the team's mascot.
2. An "Eco-Stadium Exploration Tour," available for the first 50 participants, with registration commencing at 9:50.
3. A luxury prize lottery held after the fifth inning, giving fans a chance to win big.
4. An exhilarating home run competition featuring the players prior to the game.
5. Performances from the stadium's brass band and cheer dance team, promising entertainment throughout.
6. A "Ballpark Quiz Rally" organized by members from TBS's 'Todai King'.
7. Opportunities for fans to engage in board games and try out the popular outdoor game Molkky.
8. A thrilling "Selected Group Relay" race on the ground.
9. A chance to compete for the fastest throw in the "Speed Gun Contest," aiming for a record of 165 km/h.
10. Free appetizers at the Craft Beer Festival, set to delight the taste buds.
Most notably, after the game, the first 100 fans will have an exclusive opportunity to play catch and take commemorative photos with players, following same-day registration.
The day will also feature a special guest appearance by Gyaosu Naidou, further enriching the fan experience.
While the baseball team gears up for an exciting season, fans have also witnessed their soccer counterpart, J1 Albirex Niigata, take on J3 Hachinohe in the YBC Levain Cup on March 20. After a hard-fought match that ended in a 1-1 tie, the team prevailed in a tense penalty shootout, marking their first victory of the season and igniting hopes for the upcoming matches.
Forward Yota Komi emerged as a standout during the game, scoring the opening goal in the first half. The team acknowledges that despite the victory, areas requiring improvement remain, emphasizing the complexities of transitioning to the new season.
As excitement builds for both the soccer and baseball teams, Komeri's support and commitment to fostering community spirit through sporting events will not go unnoticed. The invite to "Komeri Thanks Day" is clear: join the celebration, support local sports, and create lasting memories together.
This promise of fun, community, and robust athletics embodies the essence of local sports culture in Niigata, proving that every game brings people together to create new stories and shared experiences. Mark your calendars for April 5, and be part of the action!