On March 23, 2025, the 97th High School Baseball Invitational Tournament at Koshien Stadium saw a thrilling clash between Japan Aviation Ishikawa (Ishikawa) and Tokai University Sapporo (Hokkaido), where Tokai emerged victorious with a score of 7-6. This game was characterized by its see-sawing momentum, as both teams fought diligently for supremacy.
The stakes were particularly high for Japan Aviation Ishikawa, who entered the match aiming to secure their first Koshien victory in over seven years and deliver a morale-boosting win to their local community still reeling from the significant damages caused by the Noto Peninsula earthquake on New Year’s Day in 2024 and the historical heavy rains that followed in September.
As the game unfolded, Tokai University Sapporo got off to a promising start, scoring early in the first inning with a timely hit by Taoda Katsuma. Japan Aviation Ishikawa, however, flipped the game on its head in the second inning. After a series of three consecutive hits, they capitalized on an error from the opposing pitcher. This allowed them to scoreboard with a total of 3 runs, shifting the momentum in their favor.
Yet, the see-saw continued. The third inning saw Tokai spark back into action, scoring 4 points as they built on a bases-loaded walk followed by a three-run triple from Yahata Kosuke. This not only showcased their resilience but also put them in the lead, with the score now 5-3.
In the fourth inning, Japan Aviation Ishikawa sought to close the gap. A crucial two-run hit from Kitakawa brought them back to a tie at 5-5, intensifying the pressure on both sides. From there, the game remained tense, characterized by missed opportunities and defensive plays, including five costly double plays for Japan Aviation Ishikawa, which hampered their chances to seize the lead.
The eighth inning saw a pivotal moment when Japan Aviation Ishikawa took the lead once again, making the score 6-5 following another error from Tokai. The excitement was palpable, and their supporters, approximately 2,500 strong, roared with hope and energy from the stands.
However, the final chapter of this gripping contest belonged to Tokai University Sapporo. In a stunning comeback during the ninth inning, they capitalized on two outs with runners on first and second base. Taoda and Suzuki delivered consecutive timely hits that led to two runs, flipping the score to 7-6.
After the game, Japan Aviation Ishikawa's manager, Nakamura, reflected on the tough loss, likening their experience in the match to navigating through “rough seas.” The team will be facing a monumental transition as they must move to Aome City after this tournament, due to the severe damage to their school caused by the earlier earthquake. Their plans for recovery and return to Wajima have been put on hold indefinitely.
The emotional weight of the day was not lost on the players and supporters. As Japan Aviation Ishikawa exited the tournament early once again, the hope that surged at the beginning of this season gave way to a realization that their hard- fought effort fell just short.
Despite the defeat, many in the community praised the players for their spirit and resilience. “We can hold our heads high,” remarked a fan in the stands. The acknowledgment of their hard work was a testament to their commitment, even in the face of difficult circumstances.
Tokai University Sapporo's victory marks a significant milestone; they advanced to the second round, a feat not achieved since their runner-up finish in 2015.
As Japan Aviation Ishikawa reflects on this tournament, they will carry the lessons learned onto their next chapter, hoping to rebuild and re-establish their strong presence in Japanese high school baseball in the years to come.
