Tokyo Day 4

Another interesting day at Rissho University. Team Canada played against Rissho University baseball team, which are the defending Japanese University baseball champions. The first pitcher for Japan is projected to go first overall in the amateur draft being held this fall. He is a good pitcher. I was working the bases when he pitched so I could not tell how hard he was throwing. I managed to get four innings in behind the plate. The heat and the humidity are still a challenge. There is talk the temperature will be a little lower when we get to Tokyo.

Following the game the Rissho University baseball team invited all Team Canada representatives to a reception. Many university dignitaries were there, as well as the mayor of Rissho – who threw out the first pitch of the game. The reception included many traditional foods, speeches by university people and a display of cheerleading by the University Cheer Team. It was very entertaining. It is also nice to see how welcome they have made our group feel.

It is Wednesday morning now and we will be travelling into Tokyo this afternoon. It all begins Thursday with an umpire meeting and a reception. Games begin Friday.

Elemer