On Friday, July 31, the school held a send-off rally for the High School Baseball Team in the Main Hall to celebrate its victory in the 108th National High School Baseball Championship Kyoto Tournament and qualification for the Koshien Tournament. Many students, parents, and faculty members gathered for the occasion. As the players entered the hall to a performance by the Brass Band Club, they were greeted with enthusiastic applause.

A number of distinguished guests attended the rally. Representing the tournament organizers, Mr. Kazuya Fujihashi, General Manager of the Kyoto Bureau of The Asahi Shimbun, and Mr. Yoshiyuki Nomura, President of the Kyoto High School Baseball Federation, delivered congratulatory remarks. This was followed by the presentation of commemorative gifts by Mr. Masayoshi Ijichi, Executive Director of the Kyoto High School Baseball Federation. On behalf of the guests, Ms. Atsuko Matsumura, Mayor of Uji City, also offered words of encouragement. Other honored guests included Mr. Hiroaki Kimoto, Chairperson of the Uji City Council; Mr. Nobuya Yamanaka, Chairperson of the Uji Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Mr. Takehiko Izumo, President of the Hōō Alumni Association; Mr. Shinichi Sasaki, President of the Parents' Association; and Mr. Akito Hori, Vice President of the Educational Support Association, all of whom shared warm messages of support with the team.

On behalf of the student body, Student Council President Shiho Miyaoka delivered an encouraging speech. Reflecting on the championship game, she recalled how everyone connected with Ritsumeikan Uji came together to cheer for the team, saying, "This ticket to Koshien is the result of the hard work you have accumulated day after day." Referring to the "tea-whisking pose" that became popular during this year's World Baseball Classic, she concluded with a lighthearted message: "Please go to the grand stage of Koshien and proudly whisk up some 'Uji Matcha' for everyone!"

Responding on behalf of the team, baseball captain Masato Ehara expressed his gratitude, saying, "This championship was made possible not only by our own efforts but also by the tremendous support we received from all of you. At Koshien, we will aim to achieve something Ritsumeikan Uji has never accomplished before—winning two games at the tournament—and we will give everything we have, taking each game one victory at a time."

The rally concluded with everyone in attendance singing the school's cheering song together, accompanied by the Brass Band Club. Finally, the players left the hall to another spirited performance by the band, surrounded by loud cheers and warm applause. It was a heartfelt send-off that demonstrated the entire school's united support for the team as they head to Koshien. We sincerely appreciate your continued enthusiastic encouragement.