No.5 Support for Tokyo Verdy

(Inagi Newsletter March 15, 2012 issue)

At that moment, I was brought back to reality by the host's announcement. "The Best Development Club Award goes to... Tokyo Verdy 1969!"
I was in the VIP seats at Yokohama Arena for the J League Awards held on December 5 last year. After the J1 championship club award and the introduction of the J2 championship club, I was flipping through the pamphlet absentmindedly when I was surprised by the unexpected announcement. On stage, President Hanyu received the award certificate and then came down to my side.
When I said, "It was unfortunate this season, but we received a good award that connects to the future," he had a slightly regretful expression and replied, "More than this award, I want to see my players up on that stage."
Although Tokyo Verdy finished 5th in the 2011 season, they recorded the highest number of goals in the J2 league with 69 goals.
In the new structure for the 2012 season, Yuki Kobayashi, at 19 years old, became the youngest captain in the club's history. It has been decided that former Japan national team player Yutaka Akita, who excelled at Kashima Antlers, will join as a coach.
In Inagi City, the "Tokyo Verdy Support Promotion Committee" was established within the city hall last September, and two chief examiners have been appointed as support promotion officers. Additionally, the "Verdy Hometown Promotion Council," which has been held for about ten years with the participation of related organizations, will change its approach this year to make it more exciting.
Tokyo Verdy includes teams such as Tokyo Verdy 1969, Nippon TV Beleza, volleyball, and triathlon, and they participate in various community contribution activities, including Sound Youth Development and volunteering.
The top team started this season with a victory in the opening match on March 4, 2012. Let's all come together as the hometown of Inagi to support them so they can return to the J1 league this year!