In a significant development for the world of baseball, NEXT54, a sports management firm based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has successfully facilitated the signing of developmental contracts with three talented players: Isabirye Musa Azed and Kyazze Fred from Uganda, along with Carlos Tovar from Slovenia, with the Saitama Seibu Lions, a well-established Japanese baseball team located in Tokorozawa, Saitama Prefecture. This marks the first instance in history that athletes from Uganda and Slovenia have signed contracts with a Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) team, an achievement that could pave the way for other aspiring international players.
NEXT54 views this milestone as a historic step towards bridging baseball cultures across Uganda, Europe, and Japan. The organization is committed to supporting the journey of these three players as they strive to become prominent athletes on the world stage. Furthermore, NEXT54 is dedicated to creating opportunities for the next generation of Ugandan and Slovenian players looking to challenge themselves in the realm of international sports.
Player Profiles
1.
Isabirye Musa Azed
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Date of Birth: July 27, 2005 (20 years old)
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Nationality: Uganda
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Height/Weight: 180 cm / 73 kg
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Position: Pitcher (Right-handed)
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Background: Attended Kitebi Junior High School and Avrs Secondary School.
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Musa’s Remark: "Hello everyone. I’m Musa from Uganda. I am truly excited to join the Lions; it feels like a dream come true. I will work hard to elevate my game and reach higher levels in this sport. Thank you very much."
2.
Kyazze Fred
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Date of Birth: November 24, 2002 (22 years old)
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Nationality: Uganda
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Height/Weight: 188 cm / 76 kg
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Position: Pitcher (Right-handed, Ambidextrous)
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Background: Attended Yellow Max Primary School and Avrs Secondary School.
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Fred’s Remark: "Hello everyone. I’m Kyazze Fred, a pitcher from Uganda. Being a part of this wonderful Lions community feels like a dream, and I am thrilled. I will do my utmost to help the Lions become stronger and stronger."
3.
Carlos Tovar
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Date of Birth: August 26, 2003 (22 years old)
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Nationality: Slovenia
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Height/Weight: 187 cm / 79 kg
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Position: Pitcher (Right-handed)
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Background: Attended Ballsportgymnasum High School.
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Carlos’s Remark: "Hello everyone. My name is Carlos Tovar, and I’m from Slovenia. I am very grateful for this opportunity. Thank you to everyone who has supported me in becoming a better player."
About NEXT54
Founded with a vision to discover and nurture sports talent from Africa, NEXT54 serves as a bridge between Japanese and global sports industries. The company is dedicated to providing opportunities that transcend nationality and economic disparities. Their mission encompasses athlete career development, regional support, and fostering international collaborations through the medium of sports.
Business Activities
1.
African Sports Academy
- Establishing and operating a baseball academy focused on Uganda
- Coach exchange programs and player development initiatives between Japan and Africa.
2.
Player Database and Scouting Platform
- Managing an online database aimed at African players
- Offering scouting services to Japanese and international baseball teams.
3.
Internship and Study Tour Programs
- Conducting short-term training programs in Africa for Japanese students (in collaboration with university baseball teams)
- Educational and recruiting programs aimed at nurturing future international sports talents.
4.
International Partnerships and CSR/SDGs Support
- Supporting Japanese companies entering Africa through sports-related CSR activities
- Planning and designing educational support projects for community development
- Promoting partnerships with universities and international organizations.
Contact Information for NEXT54
Website:
NEXT54
E-mail:
[email protected]
This groundbreaking agreement not only showcases the immense talent these players represent but also emphasizes NEXT54's commitment to expanding the cultural and sporting ties between Africa and Japan. The three athletes are now set to embark on their new journey with the Saitama Seibu Lions, with aspirations to contribute significantly to the team's success while inspiring future generations of players from both Uganda and Slovenia.