Sapporo University baseball team loses opening Koshien game as ace pitches 146 km/h

In the opening match of the 108th National High School Baseball Championship (Koshien) on February 5, Sapporo University (South Hokkaido) fell 1–3 to Sendai Ikuei of Miyagi. The team's ace, Eisuke Ishikawa, recorded a personal best fastball of 146 km/h, but the squad could not overcome the early deficit despite a brief rally in the sixth inning.

The game also drew attention for the university’s “Alps” cheer squad, whose original support songs “Nichidai Pride” and “Breakthrough” were praised by fans online as a “viral anthem.” Social‑media users described the music as “catchy,” “memorable,” and a highlight of the tournament atmosphere, even as the team’s on‑field hopes faded.