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From Japan to Fiji: One Coach’s Mission to Ignite Baseball Passion

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Ken Tamaki’s lifelong passion for baseball has driven him to share his knowledge and enthusiasm for the sport on a global scale. A native of Okinawa, Japan, Tamaki’s journey as a volunteer with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) led him to Fiji, where he has dedicated himself to coaching the national baseball team since last year.

With a solid educational background including graduation from Chinen High School and Okinawa International University, Tamaki has been involved in baseball since the age of nine. His rich experiences also include serving as an umpire for the prestigious Japan High School Baseball Championship at Koshien Stadium, a highlight he’s proud of.

Inspired by a colleague’s work in Africa, Tamaki sought to promote baseball beyond Japan. He passionately teaches young Fijians the sport while also creating a fun and engaging learning environment. In addition to leading the national team, he participates in events aimed at spreading the joy of baseball across Fiji.

Despite facing challenges such as language barriers, Tamaki remains determined to enhance his communication skills to better connect with his players. His ambition is to lead Fiji’s baseball team to success, with the next significant goal being victory at the Pacific Mini Games in Palau in 2025.

Tamaki dreams of a future where Fiji’s players, coaches, and umpires can participate competitively in international tournaments, even against teams from Japan. He believes that despite baseball not being a mainstream global sport, its potential for personal development and teamwork makes it invaluable.

In summary, Ken Tamaki embodies the spirit of perseverance and dedication, serving as a positive force for baseball in Fiji. His commitment to nurturing talent and promoting the sport offers a promising future for baseball in the region, inspiring others to pursue their passions irrespective of age.


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