Ayako Sawamura presents a rough, aloof exterior while uniquely capable of catching Minatsu Nakazato's pitches as the softball club's primary catcher. Her initial motivation for joining the team stems from romantic interest in coach Kango Yamazakura, agreeing to participate only as a dating condition. After Yamazakura rejects her, she temporarily abandons softball. Ayako later returns to the team with renewed dedication to the sport and teammates, leaving romantic motives behind. She eventually forms a relationship with new teacher Somei, who develops feelings for her because she is among the rare women—besides his mother—who does not trigger his intense fear of females.