Lotte announced on the 18th that a ceremony to present a letter of appointment, hosted by Kimitsu City, was held today, August 18, for former team player Shunsuke Watanabe, who has been appointed as an ambassador for the “CO-FIELD KIMITSU” project—a collaborative initiative between Kimitsu City and Chiba Lotte Marines.

The project name "CO-FIELD KIMITSU," from the "(Provisional Name) Sadamoto Comprehensive Park Development Basic Plan" announced by Kimitsu City in July, embodies the idea of "a place created together." Taking advantage of the relocation of Chiba Lotte Marines' farm team home field, the aim is to create a park where everyone can gather and interact, regardless of whether there is a game or not. Through various initiatives such as supporting children's growth through sports, creating a lively community, promoting health, and disaster prevention, the project will create new value for the region.

The appointment ceremony was held at Kimitsu City Hall, where Kimitsu Mayor Hiroko Ishii presented Mr. Watanabe with a letter of appointment. Following this, he was given a "CO-FIELD KIMITSU" ambassador business card to be used when working as an ambassador. In his inaugural address, Mr. Watanabe described Kimitsu as "a place I have a very deep connection to, like a second home."

He also expressed his anticipation for "CO-FIELD KIMITSU," saying, "I've heard it will be a wonderful place that will make people excited just by being there." As an ambassador for "CO-FIELD KIMITSU," Watanabe will use his experience cultivated through baseball and his own words to clearly communicate the project's philosophy and appeal to people both inside and outside the city, and will also work to promote the project and build momentum through participation in various events.

▼ Comment from Shunsuke Watanabe

"As an ambassador, I believe my mission is to convey, in my own words, as clearly as possible, what I have experienced and felt through baseball. I understand that 'CO-FIELD KIMITSU' is a project to create a place where people of all ages, genders, and nationalities can freely gather and have fun. I myself have seen many such stadiums overseas, so I am excited to think that one will be built in Kimitsu City. I will do my best to let as many people as possible know about its appeal and help us all get excited about it together."

▼ Overview of the "CO-FIELD KIMITSU" Ambassador Program

Appointed: Shunsuke Watanabe

Name: "CO-FIELD KIMITSU" Ambassador

Commission period: August 18, 2026 – March 31, 2027

*Unless the individual requests to decline, the term extra inning for one year.

Activities: Promoting the project's philosophy and appeal, and building momentum through participation in various events.