KIMOTO CUP 2025

The 19th KIMOTO Cup was held on June 21 and June 22.

June 21st (Sat) Day 1 of the tournament

This year, children from nine teams competed fiercely at KIMOTO Stadium and the Ageki Elementary School field. Under the summer-like sun from early morning, every game was marked by the players' all-out efforts and the enthusiastic cheers of supporters. Here are some highlights from the first day's matches.

Dragonfly Inabe vs. Ryugaku Fighters

Dragonfly Inabe took the lead in the first inning with a series of hits, scoring three runs, but Ryugaku Fighters answered with one run in the bottom of the inning, making for a tense game. Both teams' pitchers showed resilience and the defense was outstanding, keeping the score unchanged until the final stages. In the last inning, Ryugaku Fighters used aggressive base running to score two runs and tie the game, and in the tiebreaker, both teams scored one run each. The match was ultimately decided by a rock-paper-scissors showdown, with Dragonfly Inabe emerging victorious. It was an intense and thrilling game that kept everyone on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Ageki Youth Baseball Club vs. Hatta Sports Boys Club

Both teams' starting pitchers delivered strong performances, resulting in a tense 0-0 game through the third inning. The game shifted in the bottom of the fourth when Hatta Sports Youth Team took the lead with a two-run homer over left field. Ageki Youth Baseball Team created a scoring opportunity with one out and a runner on third in the top of the fifth, but couldn't capitalize. In the final inning, Hatta Sports Youth Team added two more runs and secured a 4-0 victory. It was an impressive game, highlighted by focused defense and timely hitting.

Yamasato Sports Boys Club vs. Inabe Vickies

The defending champions, Inabe Bickies, exploded offensively from the first inning, stringing together hits to score 13 runs and take control of the game. Yamasato Sports Youth Team fought hard to shift the momentum with both defense and offense, showing their determination by scoring two runs in the third inning. Both teams battled earnestly, making it an intense and passionate game until the very end.

June 22nd (Sun) Day 2 of the tournament

On the 22nd, despite occasional clouds, the temperature rose to a challenging 29 degrees Celsius. Even so, the players maintained their focus until the end, giving their all in the semifinals and finals. Here is a look at the heated battles of the teams that advanced to the finals.

Semifinal Match 1: "Dragonfly Inabe vs. Inabe Vickies"

In the early stages of the game, Dragonfly Inabe capitalized on the Inabe Vickies' starting pitcher's initial struggles, scoring two runs in the top of the first inning and adding another run in the top of the second, advancing the game at their own pace. In response, the Inabe Vickies calmly returned one run at a time with steady offense, steadily regaining their footing in the match. Then, in the bottom of the third inning, the Inabe Vickies launched a barrage of hits, mixing long and short shots, to seize four runs in one go and successfully turn the game around. They added more runs in the following fourth inning, securing the Inabe Vickies' advancement to the finals. Dragonfly Inabe also fought tenaciously until the very end, resulting in a match full of highlights.

Semifinal Match 2: "Hatta Sports Boys Club vs. Kanda Blue Rays"

The Kanda Blue Rays were unfortunately forced to withdraw due to a scheduling conflict with the Prince Takamado Cup prefectural tournament. We would like to extend our heartfelt applause to the players who gave their all on another stage. As a result, Hatta Sports Boys Club advanced to the finals.

Final Match: "Hatta Sports Youth Club vs Inabe Bickies"

The final was an intense battle from the very beginning. Inabe Bickies took the lead in the first inning and seemed to gain momentum, but the pitcher for Hatta Sports Boys Club remained composed and, together with the solid infield defense, prevented any further runs. In the top of the third, Hatta Sports Boys Club turned the game around with a timely hit with two outs and runners on second and third. In the top of the fifth, they delivered a concentrated offensive, scoring nine runs in one go and sealing the victory. Both teams gave their all until the very end, making for a truly outstanding final. Hatta Sports Boys Club won 13-6, claiming the championship of the 19th tournament. Congratulations to everyone at Hatta Sports Boys Club on your victory!

After the tournament...

Throughout the two days of the tournament, every team played their hearts out while enjoying themselves to the very end. The field was filled with smiles, serious expressions, and countless moments of inspiration. The joy of victory and the frustration of defeat will surely become great strengths for everyone in the future.

After the games, it was time for the customary shaved ice. The sight of children smiling as they chose from a variety of colorful syrups and enjoyed their shaved ice was truly memorable. Such heartwarming moments brought smiles to all the staff as well.

Thanks to the cooperation of many officials and families again this year, we were able to complete the tournament safely and without injury. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of you.
We look forward to seeing you again at the KIMOTO Cup next year!