Buzz cuts, vigorous training and occasional corporal punishment by coaches were once seen as a symbol of Japanese high school baseball's fighting spirit. But now, such scenes are gradually becoming a thing of the past.
An increasing number of players have hairstyles of their choice, including long hair. Many coaches are also paying more attention to the feelings of the players and their parents, searching for a positive way to communicate with them. Schools in Hiroshima Prefecture are no exception to this trend.
Kaita High School's baseball team finished second in the prefecture’s spring tournament this year — a watershed moment for the team as it made it to the finals for the first time.