A tired, sweaty, and disappointed Union Omaha enters the locker room. The studs clack loudly on the floor as the team’s heavy defeat weighs deeply on their minds. Some players have glum faces, some players curse under their breaths as they move brutishly around. Following the team, the staff, and finally 元気さん. He slowly strides in with his arms folded, his eyes pointed to the ground, trying to collect his thoughts on how to address the team. He begins to speak, and the team quiets down.

“Well, boys...I think it goes without saying that tonight was unfortunately a disappointing night for us. Milan Wings are one of the best teams around, and we just weren’t able to give a good account of ourselves.” A pause. “However, this was our first game against a true big rival. I believe that as we begin to start playing more and more big continental matches, we’ll start to learn more about how we work as a team when our backs are against the wall. For big games like these, I want you boys to remember to take them as learning experiences. Find out where they’re outclassing us, why, and what we could do to mitigate the negatives. Find patterns that you note in the opposition. Bring them up during team meetings so we can discuss them together. Remember to have constant active discussions with one another about strategies, tactics, and any problems you may be going through. After all, we are a team, and if we can’t figure out how to think and act as a cohesive unit, then we may as well pack it up and go home.” He slowly looks around the room, resting his eyes on each player just for a little bit. “Remember boys, a clock needs its gears to function. A car needs its engine in order to run. Rest up, take it easy, and let’s keep our heads up high for the next games.”

元気さん finishes with a thunderous clap, riling the team to dust themselves off and keep at it. He leaves, and the team prepares for their trip back home.