Midori Sakurazawa

Sakurazawa is soft-spoken, analytical and demanding. She evaluates her players according to what will produce the strongest team rather than sentiment or seniority, which makes her intimidating even when she is speaking calmly.

Away from the immediate pressure of tournaments, she can be considerably warmer. Her severity as a coach comes from taking her players' potential seriously rather than from enjoying their discomfort.

She is particularly skilled at recognizing psychological problems. Confidence, motivation and relationships between teammates all factor into her assessment of a player, not merely technical ability or recent results.

Sakurazawa is a Class A player who reached the Queen challenger match five times. Years of competing near title level give her first-hand knowledge of the physical and psychological demands placed on elite players.

Her Fujisaki training program places unusual emphasis on stamina. Players undergo strenuous physical conditioning because a major tournament may require several intense matches in one day, and Sakurazawa wants them capable of maintaining concentration and technique deep into a competition.

She is also an exceptional observer. Sakurazawa recognizes Rion Yamashiro's auditory gifts while identifying the motivation problems holding her back, and she quickly notices how dramatically Taichi Mashima's level changes when he plays with confidence.

Sakurazawa becomes prominent when Mizusawa encounters Fujisaki at the national high-school championship. Fujisaki's deep roster, physical preparation and experienced coaching provide a sharp contrast with Mizusawa's comparatively young, largely student-built club.

She later invites Chihaya and Taichi to Fujisaki's training camp. Rather than merely allowing them to practice against strong opponents, Sakurazawa deliberately creates situations that expose weaknesses in their games.

Her influence consequently extends beyond Fujisaki. Chihaya receives advice from someone who understands the difficulties facing speed-oriented players, while Taichi is placed under conditions designed to reveal how much confidence affects his performance.

Rion Yamashiro is one of Sakurazawa's most naturally gifted Fujisaki players. Sakurazawa recognizes Rion Yamashiro's exceptional hearing but is frustrated by her inconsistent motivation and competitive drive.

Chihaya Ayase earns Sakurazawa's interest during national competition. Sakurazawa later invites Chihaya Ayase to Fujisaki's training camp and advises her from the perspective of an experienced speed-oriented player.

Taichi Mashima also attends Fujisaki's training camp. Sakurazawa recognizes the importance of confidence to Taichi Mashima's performance and deliberately challenges him under conditions intended to bring out his strongest karuta.

Ryoga Emuro is Fujisaki's club president during Mizusawa's second national tournament. Sakurazawa coaches Ryoga Emuro as one of the senior players responsible for maintaining Fujisaki's competitive standards.