"Takashi Kabasawa emphasizes the importance of relaxation and self-expression for optimal performance. [Athlete Insights]"
Takeshi Kabasawa: A Rising Star in Japan's Baseball Scene
Takeshi Kabasawa, affectionately known as "Kaba" or "Kaba-san", is a 29-year-old infielder for Toyota Motor Corporation's Miyoshi Plant/Myochi Plant Administration Division. His calm demeanor belies a fierce dedication to the sport he loves: baseball.
Kabasawa's love for baseball began in his first year of elementary school, but it wasn't until he joined a boys youth team that his passion truly ignited. This interest led him to captain his high school team at the Summer Koshien, the High School Baseball Championship of Japan, where they made it to the top 16 in his third year.
During his university years, Kabasawa played in the second division of the Tohto University Baseball League. His journey wasn't always easy, as injuries in high school forced him to practice less, and he felt guilty for being allowed to play. However, Kabasawa's resilience shone through, and he continued to improve.
One piece of advice that significantly impacted Kabasawa's batting skills came from Coach Hata, who encouraged him to focus on his ability to read the ball. This advice proved invaluable, and Kabasawa credits it for his success on the field.
As captain, Kabasawa understood it was his duty to pull the team forward and set goals for himself. He committed to cheering on pitchers and vowed to commit zero errors. Even when frustration and guilt led him to lose control and yell at teammates in high school, Kabasawa learned from his mistakes and decided to change his behavior, keeping his opinions to himself.
In 2012, Kabasawa joined Toyota's corporate baseball club. Initially, he struggled to hit the ball, but his dedication to practice and Coach Takashi Norita's belief in his ability to build on one achievement after the next paid off. Today, Kabasawa is a key player for Toyota's team, batting fourth in the lineup.
Kabasawa's dreams for the future are ambitious: he hopes to win both the National Intercity Nonpro Baseball Championship Series and the Japan amateur baseball championships. Toyota's corporate baseball club prepared for the former in April 2018.
Throughout his career, Kabasawa has appreciated the support he has received from his parents, girlfriend (now wife), and teammates. He is inspired by former Softbank player Hiroki Kokubo and even played for the Toyota Motors football team before joining the Toyota Motor Corporation team in 2012.
Kabasawa's journey is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the support of loved ones. His calm character, combined with his unwavering dedication to the sport, makes him a valuable asset to Toyota's corporate baseball team.
