Ayumu Shourinji, often called by his nickname Shourin, is a first-year student at Raimon Junior High and an original member of the Raimon Eleven soccer club, where he primarily plays as a midfielder or defender, wearing the number seven jersey. He is one of the smallest players on the team, a trait that contrasts with his powerful legs and exceptional speed. His appearance is distinctive: he has tan skin, a completely shaved head except for a long brown ponytail and a single bang over his forehead, and black eyes that have a unique cross-like shape.

Shourin's background is rooted in a strong interest in martial arts. Originally, he wanted to attend Manjuyu Junior High to study kung fu, but he instead chose to enroll at Raimon to play soccer. This passion for kung fu heavily influences his personality and playing style, as he often adopts kung fu poses and his soccer techniques are directly derived from martial arts movements. In terms of personality, he is generally a sweet and kind-hearted individual, but he can become very serious and focused when the situation demands it. He also has a notably sharp tongue, capable of delivering pointed remarks that can strike at the heart of his opponents or even his own teammates.

In the story, Shourin is present from the very beginning as one of the seven founding members of the Raimon soccer club when it was on the verge of being disbanded. His powerful legs are demonstrated early on when he uses a strong kick to free his larger teammate, Kabeyama Heigorou, who had become trapped in a locker. During the first season, he develops his first special moves, including Kung Fu Head and Tatsumaki Senpuu, which help the team in its journey to win the Football Frontier tournament.

During the second season’s battle against the Aliea Gakuen, Shourin and several other teammates are severely injured in the team's first match against Gemini Storm and are hospitalized. This forces them to step back as the main team continues to fight. Later, driven by a desire to be useful and not wanting to be left behind, Shourin and his injured teammates are corrupted by the power of the Aliea Meteorite, transforming them into the Dark Emperors, an antagonistic team. As a member of the Dark Emperors, Shourin gains enhanced power and, together with teammate Shishido Sakichi, creates a powerful new technique called Shooting Star. His corruption is eventually broken by the heartfelt words and determination of his captain, Endou Mamoru, which frees him from the meteorite's dark influence.

In the third season, Shourin is not selected to join the national team, Inazuma Japan. Despite this, he continues to practice with the remaining members of Raimon and becomes a fervent supporter from the sidelines. He appears in a video message sent to Inazuma Japan to cheer them on before their final match and is present at the graduation ceremony for the third-year players, showing his deep bond with the team.

A key relationship is with his captain, Endou Mamoru, for whom he holds great respect. He is also close with Kabeyama, their physical contrast often played for comedic effect, with Shourin being small enough to stand only about the size of Kabeyama's face. His friendship with fellow second-year player Shishido is highlighted by the combination technique they develop together as Dark Emperors. His development shows a character who evolves from a martial arts enthusiast who happens to play soccer into a resilient player who, despite facing serious injury and a fall to darkness, remains a loyal and dedicated member of the Raimon team, always striving to contribute in whatever way he can.

Shourin's notable abilities are all tied to his kung fu training. His signature techniques include Kung Fu Head, a jumping headbutt; Tatsumaki Senpuu, a spinning whirlwind move to bypass defenders; and Bunshin Feint, a dribbling technique that creates afterimages. He is also known for his powerful kicks and excellent dribbling skills, which allow him to move quickly and effectively across the field despite his small stature.