InsideJapan News Network

A top pitcher from Tokai University has turned down the opportunity to play in major competitions after rejecting an offer from Pacific League team the Nippon-Ham Fighters.

Tomoyuki Sugano sidelined himself for another season as he decided to follow his heart’s desire and wait for a chance with his uncle’s team, the Yomiuri Giants.

In the meantime, the 22-year-old will use the additional year to get himself ship-shape as he awaits a draft from his favourite team.

It was not a decision the sports star took lightly, however, as he admitted giving it serious thought.

During a press conference on campus in Kanagawa prefecture, Sugano said: “It was an honour to have a chance to hear from Nippon-Ham. But my dream from when I was a child was stronger in the end.

“I might be taking a detour, but I want to shoot for my dream. I really thought it over and made this decision, so my mind is at ease,” Kyodo quoted.

The winning team of the Pacific League is granted a national honour by taking on its biggest rivals from the Central league to compete in the Japan Series.

Posted by Mark Smith  


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