Nekoma’s Preparation for Nationals: A Grueling Journey

Nekoma's Preparation for Nationals: A Grueling Journey

The days leading up to Nationals were marked by relentless training, strategic planning, and a focus on mental toughness. Coach Nekomata and Coach Naoi worked tirelessly to ensure that every player was in peak condition—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

The Start of Training

The first morning of training camp began with Coach Nekomata standing in front of the team in the gym, clipboard in hand.

"We've reached the Nationals," he began, his sharp gaze scanning each player. "But don't let that victory go to your heads. At this stage, every opponent will be stronger, faster, and more determined than anything you've faced before."

Coach Naoi stepped in. "We're going to push you harder than we ever have. If you think the qualifiers were tough, you're in for a surprise."

The players exchanged glances, a mix of excitement and nerves evident in their expressions.

Physical Conditioning

Training kicked off with an intense focus on physical conditioning. The players ran sprints, lifted weights, and performed agility drills until their muscles burned.

"Faster, Lev!" Yaku barked as Lev struggled to keep up during shuttle runs.

"I'm trying!" Lev panted, his long legs moving awkwardly.

Wakasa, already ahead of the pack, glanced back and smirked. "Use those giraffe legs, Lev."

Despite the teasing, everyone pushed through the grueling exercises, knowing that their endurance could make the difference in a close match.

Skill Drills and Specialization

The second phase of training focused on refining individual skills.

Wakasa's Training

Wakasa worked closely with Coach Naoi to perfect his spiking and serving techniques. His ability to mimic Sakusa's sharp cross-shots and deadly serves was becoming a cornerstone of Nekoma's offense.

"Good, but sharper," Naoi instructed as Wakasa slammed another spike into the court. "You've got the power, but we need precision."

Wakasa nodded, wiping sweat from his brow. He practiced until his arm felt like lead, each spike carrying more intent than the last.

Kenma's Role as Setter

Kenma focused on reading the opposing team's movements and improving his reaction time. He spent hours studying footage of their potential opponents, noting patterns and weaknesses.

"Kenma, we'll rely on you to outsmart their defense," Nekomata said.

Kenma nodded, already calculating new plays in his mind.

Lev's Improvement

Lev's height was an asset, but his coordination still needed work. Yaku took it upon himself to guide the first-year.

"Your timing's off," Yaku said, clapping Lev on the shoulder. "Let's fix that."

They worked together tirelessly, Lev's spikes and blocks becoming more effective with each passing day.

Inouka's Role

Inouka's focus was on mastering his mind games and jump floater serve. He worked with Kuroo to refine his blocking strategy, learning to predict and shut down the strongest hitters.

"Remember," Kuroo said, demonstrating with his hands, "blocking isn't just physical. It's mental. You've got to get in their heads."

Inouka grinned. "Mental games? That's my specialty."

Team Strategy Meetings

Every evening, the team gathered around a projector in the gym to discuss strategy. Coach Nekomata played footage of teams they might face, pointing out key players and tactics.

"Watch this middle blocker," Nekomata said, pausing the video. "He's quick, but he has a tendency to overcommit. Exploit that."

Kenma chimed in, "If we can draw him to the wrong side of the court, Wakasa can finish the point."

Wakasa nodded, already visualizing the play.

Practice Matches

To simulate the intensity of Nationals, Nekoma played practice matches against strong local teams.

In one match, Wakasa unleashed a series of devastating spikes, each one sharper and more precise than the last.

"That's the Wakasa we need at Nationals!" Kuroo shouted, pumping his fist.

Lev surprised everyone with a perfectly-timed block against a veteran spiker, earning cheers from his teammates.

Even Kenma, usually reserved, couldn't hide his satisfaction as his quick sets left the opponents scrambling.

Mental Preparation

Coach Nekomata knew that Nationals required more than physical skill. He held sessions focused on mental toughness, helping the players build confidence and resilience.

"Nationals isn't just about skill," he said. "It's about composure. The team that stays calm under pressure is the team that wins."

Wakasa, despite his usual stoic demeanor, admitted his nerves to Kenma during one of these sessions.

"You'll be fine," Kenma said simply. "You're Wakasa Kiyoshi. You don't need to prove anything to anyone."

The words stuck with Wakasa, calming his restless mind.

Final Day of Training

On the last day of camp, the team gathered for one final practice. The atmosphere was electric, a mix of excitement and determination.

As they finished, Coach Nekomata addressed them one last time. "You're ready," he said. "You've worked harder than ever, and now it's time to show the country what Nekoma can do."

Kuroo stepped forward, his voice steady. "Let's go out there and prove that we're more than just the cats in the corner. We're a team that fights, claws, and wins."

The team roared in agreement, their spirits high.

Departure for Nationals

The day of departure arrived, and the team boarded the bus amidst cheers from their classmates and supporters. Wakasa glanced out the window, his usual nerves replaced by a quiet resolve.

"This is it," he thought, clenching his fists. "We're ready."

As the bus pulled away, the players sat together, their bond stronger than ever. The road ahead was uncertain, but one thing was clear: Nekoma was ready to fight for the championship.