[Special Feature] Taking on the challenge of playing for the same team, JIU Chiba Sky Sailors

Kenichi Matsuo (left) and Kengo Namba

Two people answering interview questions

What led you to enter Josai International University and your memories of university life

 

 

Matsuo: Mizuta Memorial Ballpark, where the baseball team practices, is extremely well-equipped, and the appealing environment of being able to concentrate solely on baseball was what made me decide to enroll. When I was a second-year student, Togane City was hit by a typhoon, and the apartment where I lived had a water outage. At that time, I went to Katsuura, where a senior student knew someone, and he let me use his shower, and it's now a fond memory. At school, I was a member of Professor Miyama's seminar, where I learned the skills needed to achieve results in a team or organization. Even now, as the team captain, I feel that those experiences are still useful.
Namba: I'm from Chiba Prefecture, so I was mainly looking for universities within the prefecture. In my final year at university, I was able to play as a starter in league games, and I have fond memories of being able to participate in the Kanto Regional University Baseball Championship. In Professor Ishihara's seminar, I was repeatedly taught the importance of "reporting, communicating, and consulting," and even now I act with an awareness of communication within my team.

Current relationships within the team, and what is good about teammates

Matsuo: I've been serving as captain since last year. I felt a little unsure last season because Namba wasn't there yet, but this season, a junior from my university days joined the team, and it's made it easier for us to work together as a team. This year's Sky Sailors slogan is "Muddy." This is similar to the style of the JIU baseball team, and it brings back memories and a sense of unity within the team.
Namba: My senior colleague, Mr. Matsuo, sometimes gives me baseball equipment like bats and gloves, which is very helpful. It's reassuring to know a senior colleague.

Future goals

 

 

Matsuo: Due to my age, it may be difficult for me to continue playing baseball. That's why I'm considering taking on the challenge of a new sport or field. I want to continue to use the experience I've gained with the Sky Sailors to broaden my horizons.
Namba: Of course I want to become a professional, but I also want to become stronger and be able to lead the team.

Message to current students

Matsuo: It's best to make sure you get enough credits. I struggled in my fourth year. I think it's a good idea to plan your course load from an early age.
Namba: I think it's important to work hard at everything you do. You have to keep working hard, little by little.

Chiba Sky Sailors (operated by Chiba Prefectural Baseball Club Co., Ltd.) was established in 2022 as Chiba Prefecture's first independent baseball team. They are currently an associate member of the independent league "Baseball Challenge League (commonly known as the Route Inn BC League)." They play games against other independent leagues and NPB farm teams mainly at stadiums within Chiba Prefecture, and are working towards joining the league in fiscal year 2026.

Chiba Sky Sailors