On March 23, 2025, Tokai University Sapporo will face Japan Aviation Ishikawa in their opening match of the 97th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament. This highly anticipated game marks a pivotal moment for the team as they aim to revive their traditional aggressive playing style.
At the heart of Tokai University Sapporo's hopes are twins Taida Masamune and Taida Shoma, both in their third year. Although the identical twins share an uncanny resemblance, they differentiate themselves on the field through distinct playing styles and personalities. Masamune, standing 169cm and weighing 81kg, exhibits exceptional bat control, while Shoma, slightly larger at 172cm and 92kg, is recognized for his notable slugging ability.
Having started playing baseball together in the 2nd grade, the twins honed their skills under the guidance of their father, Katsuyuki Taida, who himself reached the top 8 at the Koshien in 1994 and won the National Athletic Meet that same year. This familial legacy drives them, as they can frequently be found practicing together and offering each other tips and advice, establishing a strong bond both as teammates and brothers.
Last fall, both Masamune and Shoma made it onto the bench during the regional tournament, with Masamune primarily batting fifth and Shoma, who achieved ten RBIs in the season, batting fourth. Their teamwork was crucial in the semi-final, where Masamune hit a key three-base hit, and Shoma recorded two hits and three RBIs. Their contributions helped propel Sapporo to the finals, signaling their potential to make a significant impact in this tournament.
Just before this important match on March 23, Masamune expressed his determination, stating, “I will attack as Hokkaido's representative.” His brother Shoma echoed this sentiment, committing to delivering in clutch situations, saying, “I will hit a home run when I have the chance.” Their enthusiasm exemplifies the team’s readiness as they prepare to take the field against Japan Aviation Ishikawa.
Japan Aviation Ishikawa comes into this match with notable experience, marking their fourth consecutive appearance in the tournament. Their ace pitcher, Hachiya Takao, throws a fastball that can hit speeds of 145 km/h and complements it with a slider and a cut ball. Hachiya delivered an impressive performance in the fall official game, striking out 46 opponents over 47 innings pitched. Another strong arm on their team is Nagai Takayoshi, who boasts a sharp slider and a low ERA of 1.21 in six outings during the same competition.
Adding to the intrigue of the match, Japan Aviation Ishikawa players have actively participated in volunteer work following the Noto Peninsula earthquake in January 2024 and heavy rainfall disasters in September 2024. Their engagement in community service not only speaks to their character but also builds a strong connection to their home region, where they aim to inspire fellow residents with their performance.
As for the cheerleading squad — or rather the substitute cheer squad — it is comprised of 13 members from Tokai University Sapporo's dance club, who transformed into cheerleaders after practicing rigorously for over a month due to the absence of an official cheerleading team. Their vibrant support, donned in uniforms borrowed from Tokai University Fukuoka, aims to energize the players and provide a significant morale boost.
Prior to this match, the team participated in final preparations at a practice ground in Hyogo Prefecture for two hours. The excitement and determination in the air are palpable, as the players are eager to represent their school and region on this prestigious national stage.
The first game of the day is set to begin at 9:00 AM, featuring not only Tokai University Sapporo appealing to their home crowd but also Japan Aviation Ishikawa, both teams with the hope of making a significant mark in this year’s tournament. Fans, players, and community members alike are gearing up for a performance that promises to showcase both skill and sportsmanship.
This tournament holds historical significance as it gathers the best of high school baseball teams across Japan, and both schools are ready to compete not just for victory but for pride, legacy, and the dreams of many aspiring players. The rivalry and camaraderie showcased here reflect the heart and spirit of high school baseball — a journey that transcends mere competition.
As the opening match approaches, anticipation builds, and there's a shared understanding among the players and fans alike that today is about more than just a game; it’s about representing their schools, sharing a love for the sport, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
