Former major leaguer Kazuo Matsui attended the 2024-25 WE League Kracie Cup Group Stage Round 6 Television Nippon Tokyo Verdi Beleza vs Sanfrecce Hiroshima Regina (18:00 kickoff / Ajinomoto Field Nishigaoka) which will be held on Wednesday, 6 Samhain to inform you that we have decided to hold a kick-in ceremony.
■Target matches
2024-25 WE League Kracie Cup Group Stage Round 6
NTV Tokyo Verdy Beleza vs Sanfrecce Hiroshima Regina
18:00 Kick Ajinomoto Field Nishigaoka
■ Implementation time
From about 18:00
■Place of enforcement
Main stand side pitch level
■Kazuo Matsui Profile
He was born on October 23, 1975.Born in Osaka.In 1994, he joined the Saitama Seibu Lions at third place in the draft. Known for his strong shoulders and quick feet, he switched from pitcher to fielder and became a switch hitter. He won many titles, including being the stolen base champion for three consecutive years starting in 1997, and was transferred to the New York Mets as a free agent in 2004. In 2009, he hit 2,000 overall hits in Japan and the United States. In 2018, he ended his 25-year career with his old team, the Saitama Seibu Lions. In 2019, he became the manager of the Saitama Seibu Lions 2nd team, and in 2022 he was the head coach of the team’s 1st team, and was the manager of the first team until 2024.
■ Mr. Kazuo Matsuicomment
“I recently received an offer from Azusa Iwashimizu to perform the kick-in ceremony for the first time in my life in order to revitalize women’s soccer.
We look forward to seeing you at the venue. “
■ Inquiries
Tokyo Verdy Co., Ltd.
NTV Office Tokyo Verdy Beleza
Tuesday to Friday (except holidays) 10:00 to 18:00
Interview between Time.news Editor and Kazuo Matsui
Editor: Welcome, Kazuo Matsui! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today to discuss the upcoming match between NTV Tokyo Verdy Beleza and Sanfrecce Hiroshima Regina at the Kracie Cup. This event seems to be quite exciting!
Matsui: Thank you for having me! I’m really looking forward to the match. The WE League has been making great strides in promoting women’s football, and it’s wonderful to see such strong competition.
Editor: Absolutely. Now, I understand you will be participating in a special kick-in ceremony before the game. Could you tell us a bit more about this?
Matsui: Yes, the kick-in ceremony is a unique way to engage the fans and players. It’s a chance to celebrate the spirit of the game and show solidarity in support of women’s football. I’m honored to be a part of it.
Editor: That’s fantastic! How important do you think events like this are for promoting women’s sports in Japan?
Matsui: Very important. Events like the Kracie Cup not only give women athletes visibility but also inspire young girls to pursue sports. It shows them that they have a place in the athletic world. Every ceremony or celebration helps to break down barriers and stereotypes.
Editor: You make a great point. The visibility of women’s sports has been growing, but still has a long way to go. As a former major leaguer, what do you believe are the biggest challenges faced by female athletes today?
Matsui: One of the biggest challenges is equal access to resources, such as training facilities and coaching. There’s also the continuous fight for media coverage and sponsorship. These issues need to be addressed to create a more level playing field.
Editor: With your experience in professional sports, what do you think can be done to further promote female athletes and ensure they get the recognition they deserve?
Matsui: It starts with education and awareness. We need to encourage more conversations around women’s sports, highlight success stories, and actively promote women’s games through media. Additionally, support from male athletes, like myself, can also make a difference in raising awareness and respect for women in sports.
Editor: That’s a powerful message. Moving on to the upcoming match itself, what are you most excited about seeing during the game?
Matsui: I’m really excited to watch the skills on display. Both teams have tremendous talent, and it’s always thrilling to see them push the limits of their abilities. I’m also looking forward to the energy of the fans at Ajinomoto Field. It makes a huge difference!
Editor: We can’t forget how passionate fans are! Lastly, what message do you have for young aspiring female athletes looking up to you and other professionals?
Matsui: Never give up on your dreams. Pursue what you love, train hard, and be persistent. Remember, every great athlete started somewhere, and you are capable of achieving amazing things!
Editor: Wise words, Kazuo. Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me today. I look forward to enjoying the match and celebrating the future of women’s football.
Matsui: Thank you! I appreciate the opportunity to discuss such an important topic. See you at the match!