On November 23rd, the "LIONS THANKS FESTA 2025 supported by Olive" was held at Belluna Dome. The theme of the event was "Connecting at an overwhelmingly close distance," and many interactive events were planned. It was a day that brought players and fans even closer together.

There are also many events that you can join on the day!

As soon as the doors opened, players exchanged high-fives and handed out hand warmers. A long line stretched all the way to CAR3219 Field, and many fans enjoyed interacting with the players. First up in the morning was rookie player Hiroto Saito, who was the first pick in the draft, and he greeted the fans with high-fives.

Many fans also waited for the players on the players' road as they traveled. The players also provided fan service during their travels, such as high-fiving and handing out player business cards.

There were other events you could take part in on the day, too. There was a pitching challenge where you could try your hand at strikeouts, and a baseball experience corner where coaches and players appeared. There were also times when they showed up to help out at the sponsor booths, so even if you didn't apply in advance, there were plenty of opportunities to interact with the players directly.

Playing Rock-Paper-Scissors! Interacting with the children

The Prospi Training center fielder held a children's interaction event. The event featured a game called "Rooftop Rocket!", open to anyone, but limited to junior high school students and younger. pitcher Masaya Kuroda confidently declared, "I'm strong!" and enjoyed competing against the children, showing big reactions to wins and losses.

In the "Kids' Advice" segment, players answered the concerns of junior fan club members. Natsuo Takizawa carefully answered an 11-year-old fan's question, "How do you relieve fatigue?" He kindly spoke, sharing his own experience, saying, "I like watching YouTube and stuff, so relaxing and lying around helps me to relax mentally."

Relax in a foot bath... Big chain necklaces also available at the merchandise distribution event

The event, which required advance registration, included photo sessions and autograph sessions for fan club members.

On the Lion Deck, a "foot bath greeting" was held, where players and fans could chat while soaking their feet in the foot bath. A peaceful time passed as players warmed their bodies in the foot bath and warmed their hearts through conversation. pitcher Haruki Sugiyama, whose beautiful voice reverberated throughout the Dome at the opening of the main event, also interacted harmoniously with the fans.

Additionally, tickets were sold with optional items such as blankets, scarves, and big chain necklaces, which have been a big hit this season. Players held a handover event for purchasers.

pitcher 　Ryota Itokawa reenacted the scene where a player puts on a big chain necklace saying, "Congratulations on home run!" pitcher Hiroshi Kaino appeared on stage wearing the same flashy costume he wore on the main stage, entertaining the fans.

With the motto of "overwhelmingly close", the "LIONS THANKS FESTA 2025 supported by Olive" saw a variety of events where players and fans interacted with each other. It was surely a day where fans could feel even closer to the players.

Interview and text by Kai Nagi Niwa