With a rich history of fostering talent, encouraging development and promoting the love of baseball for both men and women, the Big Cats were thrilled to join forces with a club favourite and Team Japan Head Coach Risa Nakashima as part of the inaugural Rough Diamonds Project. Over recent weeks, those around the club may have noticed some extra Japanese women’s players taking part in training sessions on the field, and also sitting in on English classes in the clubrooms. What you also may have noticed is long-time Big Cats player and family member Risa Nakashima leading the charge. No stranger to supporting women’s baseball at all levels, in her off-time from delivering Team Japan their most recent World Championship at the 2024 Women’s Baseball World Cup, Risa is again mentoring the next generation of female athletes.
“One of my best friends reached out to me last year to discuss this idea, to run the Rough Diamonds Project”, said Risa when asked how the project began. “Any chance I have to provide support to players who want to get better at baseball and also become better people, I want to help them.”
We sat down with Risa to ask her all about the Project and her ongoing connection to the Big Cats.
So, what is the Rough Diamonds Project?
The Rough Diamond Program is a brand-new initiative designed to help female baseball players interested in going overseas to play baseball, learn English, and immerse themselves in different cultures. Additionally, the program supports those who aspire to become coaches in the future.
Who came up with the idea?
The program was initiated by Minoru Ikari, a long-time friend and entrepreneur, who envisioned creating something new for women’s baseball. His goal was to provide unique opportunities for female athletes, and I was immediately excited to assist him in any way possible.
Why did you want to run the first time with Big Cats?
The Big Cats have been a huge part of my baseball journey, both on and off the field. Reflecting on my time with the club 14 or 15 years ago, I realise how much it shaped my life. The support I received when I struggled with English and was adapting to a new environment was invaluable. I wanted to share this experience with the girls participating in the program, showcasing the benefits of playing baseball overseas and the exceptional support from the club. Additionally, I needed assistance with logistics, such as host families, grounds, and clubhouses. I knew I could rely on the club to help me, and they did not let me down.
Why is the cultural learning of baseball in another country important to the players from Japan?
Japanese baseball culture can be quite demanding, with numerous rules and intense competition. That environment can sometimes make it challenging for players to enjoy the sport and remember why they started playing. Learning about baseball in other countries offers a refreshing perspective, allowing players to appreciate the game and have fun. Baseball in Australia is definitely a different experience and a chance for the players to re-think their perspective and ideas around both the game, and themselves as people.
Was the first program a success?
The first program was a great success. The primary goal was to ensure the participants had a good time, and they certainly did. They enjoyed their experience so much that they didn’t want to leave.
Why was it a success?
Running the program for the first time was both challenging and enjoyable. The English lessons were particularly effective, as the participants became more confident in speaking and navigating social situations, such as ordering at cafes and restaurants. This progress made me very happy. It was also great that the host families would have conversations in English at night and quiz the girls on what they had learned during the day. Those situations happened organically and were such an important addition to the structured sessions we ran during the day.
What would you like to happen now?
I hope to raise awareness about this project and attract more girls to come to Australia for similar experiences. Ideally, we can run the program annually and expand it to other states. If participants choose to return and play for the season, it will also benefit the local leagues and strengthen multiple clubs and leagues across Australia.
How important is it for the future of players in Japan to have opportunities to travel with the Rough Diamonds Project and learn baseball and English (and culture) in Australia (or other countries)?
Japanese women’s baseball is currently ranked number one in the world. To maintain this leadership, it is crucial to expand its reach and encourage more girls to learn English. This skill will help overcome language barriers when collaborating with other countries, and when travelling abroad for both baseball and potentially as part of their careers moving forward.
Other thoughts on the program?
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to run this program and for all the support I received. Teaching was a new challenge for me, but it was enjoyable and motivated me to improve. I appreciate the efforts of Simone, Mini, Macca, and all the club members. The Big Cats continue to lead the way when it comes to inclusion and empowerment of girls and women playing baseball, but more importantly, for them to become the best version of themselves. I look forward to continuing this program next year and hope to involve more girls, potentially organising combined games and other fun activities.
As we prepare to celebrate International Women’s Day, the Springvale Baseball Club continue to push the boundaries when it comes to supporting women on and off the baseball field. It is our hope that we can welcome the Rough Diamonds Project back in 2026 and help foster the development of a new crop of Japanese women who love the game. The club says a huge thank you to Mini, Trav, Henry, Winnie and Macca (+ Roxy) who welcomed Koko and Ami (and Risa) into their homes for two weeks and ensured the program was a success. We are so proud of all that Risa does and look forward to helping drive this program forward for future success!
To follow along with the Rough Diamonds Project, check it out on Instagram via this link:
https://www.instagram.com/rough_diamonds_project/