Sawada Takeshi

Sawada is Hyuga's partner in Meiwa FC. Trained by coach Kira as well, despite his young age he's very talented. He has the utmost respect for Hyuga, and is helping him to the best of his abilities when he has troubles, though he doesn't hesitate to point out his mistakes. Without Hyuga in Meiwa, Sawada lost the national championship to Nitta. Joining Toho Academy after Hyuga and Wakashimazu, he played a more important role as Toho's coach Kitazume didn't allow Hyuga to play. Trying his best to match Tsubasa as a playmaker who can score, he had troubles against his former teammates from Meiwa, but eventually won against them with the precious help of Sorimachi and Wakashimazu. He was among the best players of the tournament and thus, was selected in the All Japan Jr. Youth team, despite his young age. Entering high school, Sawada was still in Toho with Hyuga and Wakashimazu, and was also selected in the All Japan Youth team. He played the match against Uruguay in the World Youth. Sawada eventually became a pro by joining the Urawa Red Diamonds, playing with the best libero of Asia Igawa Hayato. He then became the captain and playmaker of the U-19 All Japan Youth team and lead them to the final match of the Asian preliminaries, where he learned to trust his teammates more like Tsubasa. He later joined the U-22 Olympic team for the Asian preliminaries, where his playmaking abilities would come in handy.