Seigakukan High School from Aichi Prefecture is making its 2nd appearance in 8 years at the 97th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament. The team is gearing up for its first match against Energetic Sports from Okinawa, scheduled for March 21, 2025. Under the leadership of Coach Suzuki Kenji, Seigakukan has developed a strong presence in high school baseball, and their journey has not been without its challenges.
Among the highly motivated players is 3rd-year student Ando Akito, who has faced significant adversity in his pursuit of becoming a regular pitcher. A promising talent, Ando aimed to contribute to his team's success, but a traumatic head injury sustained last summer forced him out of action for approximately three months. During a practice session before the Aichi tournament in July 2024, a ball struck him on the side of the head, resulting in a cerebral contusion that required immediate medical attention.
Despite the severity of his injury, which included bleeding identified through an MRI scan, Ando was able to avoid surgery but was placed under strict medical orders to rest. For the duration of his medical leave, he was unable to participate in any of the team’s training sessions or engage in physical activities that could stress his head, including weight training or cycling. This period of recovery was particularly isolating, as the competitive atmosphere was well underway.
After the new team formed in August 2024, Ando gradually resumed physical activity, starting with light rehabilitation exercises like walking and stair climbing. His commitment to the game did not wane; he spent substantial time learning the finer points of baseball strategy by reading baseball literature and studying various pitching grips. Ultimately, Ando stepped forward to take on the role of team scorer, as he expressed his desire to contribute to the team despite his physical limitations.
Seigakukan’s performance improved significantly as they progressed through the autumn prefectural tournament, culminating in a victory that moved them to the Tokai tournament. However, the joy of the team's achievements was mixed with personal frustration for Ando, who confessed, “Although there was no bitterness about not being able to pitch, winning did stir complex emotions within me.” Coach Suzuki recognized Ando’s intrinsic value beyond just statistics on the field, calling him the 21st authorized bench member and highlighting that he brings a unique perspective to the team. “He has the qualities to contribute that are gained from his experiences as a pitcher,” said Suzuki.
Ando’s resilience and dedication have also led him to take initiative in managing team supplies, particularly focusing on the health and nutritional needs of the players. With many underclassmen on the team, he ensures that the right supplements and drinks are available at each training session and game.
As Seigakukan prepares for their upcoming match against Energetic Sports, their opponents’ reputation precedes them. Coach Suzuki is acutely aware of the challenge, stating, “They are a powerful team and were noticed prior to being selected for this tournament, having demonstrated their caliber by winning the Kyushu tournament.” Yet he remains optimistic about his team’s ability to compete, finding parallels between their own strategies and those of Energetic Sports. Coach Kamitani Yoshimune of Energetic Sports views Seigakukan as a dynamic squad utilizing speed, further emphasizing their competitive similarities.
Amid all this, Ando maintains his dream of returning to the mound. He continues to enhance his skills, especially on breaking balls, practicing diligently in hopes of earning the chance to pitch during the summer tournament. “I want to train so that I can one day throw on this stage as a pitcher,” Ando expressed, framing his determination as unwavering despite the hurdles he has encountered.
The stage at Koshien is set, with only 20 players allowed to roster for the game. Ando might not see his name on the list of pitchers in this match, but his presence on the team and his journey inspire those around him. As the momentum builds for the match, the combined ambitions of the players and their coach serve as a reminder of the iron resolve required in sports—a fundamental understanding that each member contributes uniquely to their collective goal.
For Ando and the rest of the Seigakukan team, the mantra is clear. They have come this far and their story is not yet finished. This tournament is another stage for them to prove their strength, unity, and relentless spirit as they face Energetic Sports—a matchup that promises to be a thrilling start to the tournament.
