Riko Saginuma, a 15-year-old third-year junior high student from Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, radiates energy with her cropped blonde hair and golden eyes. Ice hockey runs in her blood as the daughter of Kenji Saginuma, former player for the men’s Nikko Dream Monkeys, though she tentatively joins the team’s trial class before committing. There, she forges bonds with Manaka Mizusawa and others, swiftly rising as a core member.

As the Dream Monkeys’ center and assistant captain, she blends competitiveness with unwavering support. Her relationship with best friend Naomi Takagi anchors her growth, their inseparable bond defined by Riko steadfastly urging Naomi to conquer doubts after Naomi returns to hockey from figure skating. Their dynamic mirrors the red-oni, blue-oni archetype—Riko’s fiery exuberance clashes with Naomi’s quiet reserve. A pivotal moment strikes during an exhibition match against the Tomita Phoenix when Riko sprains her ankle in a collision with Naomi, sidelining her and exposing rare vulnerability. The injury ignites Naomi’s self-doubt, but Riko’s recovery and return cement their interdependence, strengthening both their resolve.

Her devotion transcends personal accolades, evident when she coaches Ayaka Mizusawa through a stamina test and drills defensive strategies with Naomi post-practice. These acts underscore her role as the team’s heartbeat, championing collective triumphs over individual glory. Naomi’s affectionate nickname “Rikorin” stands as a testament to their camaraderie.

Though she embodies a tomboy spirit, Riko indulges in occasional girlish pastimes with friends, revealing a layered personality. Her journey spotlights resilience, teamwork, and harmonizing ambition with compassion, crescendoing from hesitant newcomer to linchpin of the team’s unity.