11/28/2032- Tokyo, Japan An outstanding season by the Akira garnered their manager Kata Hayagawa the Sovereign League Manager of the Year award for 2032. He led Neo-Tokyo to a 104-58 record this year and a first place finish in the Sovereign League Rising Sun division, as well as their first appearance in the PEBA Championship finals.This was Kata's first Manager of the Year award of his distinguished career. Even so, Hayagawa seemed less than thrilled. "I don't give a darn about the award," he growled to reporters, "I just want this team to win championships!" Championships is something he grew accustomed to in his previous stint in Aurora where he served as hitting coach for 10 years. That included the Borealis' historic run of four Rodriguez Trophies in a five year span. He eventually took the reins as manager for a three year run, finishing in first place each season. Despite that impressive track record he parted ways with the organization he spent 19 years with and returned to his homeland in 2029 to guide the up and coming Akira.
His managerial style, which is conventional and balanced, has served him well over the years. Those who know and play for him say he creates a relaxed atmosphere in the clubhouse. It is not uncommon for him to be seen shooting the breeze with his hitters for hours after a game. His laid back style is a plus when his team is winning but his detractors have said he has allowed tension to go unchecked in the past. That doesn't appear to be a problem at the moment in Neo-Tokyo. At 56 years of age he is already considered a legend of the game in Japan.
