◆ Seibu Lions Pacific League: Seibu vs. Orix Buffaloes (August 2nd, Belluna Dome)

On August 2nd, Seibu Lions held a fundraising event before their game against Orix Buffaloes at their home stadium, Belluna Dome, to support victims of the earthquake that struck Kumamoto Prefecture on July 28th.

Team president Okumura, who hails from Kumamoto City, minor league fielder coach Ryosuke Kodama, infielder hails from Yatsushiro City, and pitcher Haruki Sugiyama, infielder Koji Kaneko Taiyo Sato, were among infielder participated and appealed for donations.

Kodama took part in the activity after the farm league Hayate game held at the adjacent Carminique. He was a student at Kumamoto Bunkyo High School when the earthquake struck the prefecture 10 years ago, and with a solemn expression he expressed his thoughts, saying, "I was a high school student myself when the earthquake hit, so I know how difficult it was. I pray that those affected can recover as soon as possible. I hope that I can show them that I am working hard and giving them some energy and courage." He bowed to each participant in the fundraising activity and said "Thank you" as he called for donations.

Team president Okumura explained the situation, saying, "My heart aches when I think about the people who have been affected by the disaster, and not only I, but also many team staff and players have expressed a desire to help in some way, so we decided to start this today." He then stood there himself for over an hour and a half in the scorching heat, continuing to call for donations.

Furthermore, starting after the game on the 2nd, donation boxes will be placed near the gate information area at Belluna Dome Belluna Dome on days when the first team holds regular season there from the 7th onwards. The deadline is yet to be determined.