Ikitsuki High School from Nagasaki Prefecture, located on the remote Ikitsuki Island, is making history by qualifying for the Koshien baseball tournament for the first time ever, both in spring and summer. This incredible achievement has not just been about sports; it symbolizes the perseverance and unity of the community amid adversity.
Four and a half years ago, tragedy struck the team when 17-year-old Haruaki Katsumura suddenly passed away during practice. He collapsed at his team’s lodging facility during a practice game, succumbing to a brain blood vessel disease shortly afterward. Haruaki had dreams of becoming an emergency medical technician and was known for his all-out playing style on the field. His father, Masaru Katsumura, shared how Haruaki always played with full effort leading him to worry about injuries. "He was always playing with such intensity, I often found myself concerned he might get hurt," he recalled.
Fast forward to January 24, 2025, the day when the schools selected for the Koshien tournament were announced via internet broadcast. Masaru, along with family and relatives, gathered at their home, eagerly awaiting the moment. When Ikitsuki High School’s name was called, Masaru turned to Haruaki's picture wearing his baseball uniform, exclaiming, "It’s official! We’re going together!" A poignant reminder of their connection, fueling the family’s hopes and spirit.
The team, carrying forward Haruaki's legacy, has embraced his memory, using it as motivation during their practices. The players would often repeat the mantra, "We’re playing for Haruaki and Koshien," pushing them through the toughest drills. Captain Riku Akagi reflected, "It felt like Haruaki was with us during practice, even when it got really tough. That spirit helped us overcome every challenge we faced." The emotional ties within the team have acted as the glue holding them together, especially during high-stakes matches.
Last summer, during the prefectural tournament, Masaru attended every game as the team, unseeded at the start, made it to the top eight. He witnessed them achieve remarkable performances, including one standout game where their star pitcher shut out a major rival, all the more inspiring because of their shared commitment to Haruaki’s memory. "Every moment we played, it was like fighting alongside Haruaki," Masaru shared. While the team didn't make it to Koshien last year, Masaru expressed his gratitude when recalling the support they received, saying it filled him with warmth.
Now, Ikitsuki High School has made progress all the way to the Koshien tournament. Coach Tsutomu Sakamoto, who has led the team through this remarkable transformation, emphasized, "We choose to see disadvantages as opportunities. That mindset has helped us develop as players and as individuals." The school, which has 414 students, prides itself on being academically and athletically excellent, with approximately half of the students going on to national and public universities. It is remarkable to see how closely knit the school’s baseball team is, composed entirely of players who hail from Ikitsuki.
The island itself is steeped in history and spirituality, home to over 150 shrines, which has imbued the team with strong resilience and community spirit. The players have overcome logistical hurdles unique to island living. Relying on the help of local residents and supporters, Ikitsuki's players have participated in 20 away games each year, costing around 300,000 yen ($2,800) per trip, with local fundraising helping to cover the expenses. It’s no small effort, and each expedition requires significant planning and support.
Masaru Katsumura now watches with pride as his younger son, Taisei, follows his brother’s footsteps and starts at Ikitsuki High School this spring, aiming to carry the family legacy forward. "Taisei has always looked up to Haruaki. I just want him to enjoy every moment of it at Koshien," Masaru said, echoing sentiments of hope and dreams shared within the entire family. Taisei plans to cheer on the team from the Koshien stands, ensuring the family bond remains vivid even amid the bright lights and excitement.
The team’s opening game is set for March 20, 2025, against Toyo University Himeji High School from Hyogo. Masaru remarked, "While the players may feel nervous playing before such large crowds, I hope they can stay calm and play together as one team." This spirit of togetherness and shared history not only defines Ikitsuki High School's baseball team but also encapsulates the love and resilience of the island’s community, making this moment truly special.
With their entry to Koshien, the team has sparked joy and pride among the islanders, who are celebrating what many are calling "a once-in-a-century event." The emotion is palpable as Ikitsuki’s residents rally together, uplifting their team and honoring the legacy of Haruaki Katsumura—a lasting reminder of the extraordinary strength of the communities built on dreams, love, and unity.