Wakabayashi Genzo, sometimes adapted as Benji Price, debuted as a prodigious goalkeeper from wealth. For his tenth birthday, he secured training under the world's best coach, Tatsuo Mikami, who foresaw his potential to transform Japanese football. Initially arrogant, he enforced honorifics from Shutetsu Elementary teammates—later revealed as a tactic to drive them toward regular status. His conviction that football surpassed wealth led him to defend teammates against privilege accusations. He captained Shutetsu to victory in the 5th Juveniles National Tournament.
His rivalry with Tsubasa Ozora ignited during an interschool match. After Tsubasa scored in a street duel, Wakabayashi challenged him formally. Intensive nightly training with Mikami followed, but an injury against Mizukoshi Elementary limited his subsequent play. He later joined Nankatsu SC for the national finals, partnering with Tsubasa to win the championship.
Aged twelve, he relocated to Hamburg, Germany, with Mikami. He endured relentless bullying from local players, facing targeted shots during training. His resilience drew Karl Heinz Schneider's attention, forging a rivalry and friendship. After physically confronting his bullies, Wakabayashi earned their respect and strengthened his bond with Schneider. Living with the Draxler family, he mastered German. By high school, he solidified his role as Hamburg's primary goalkeeper and Germany's top youth keeper, maintaining a near-even 50-50 duel record with Schneider.
During Japan Junior Youth's Germany tour, Wakabayashi warned Japan couldn't beat Hamburg without Tsubasa. He instructed Hamburg to allow Japan free attacks in the first half, effortlessly saving all shots. After Schneider scored multiple goals, Wakabayashi intentionally conceded to Hyuga, though Japan lost 1-5. His post-match critique of Hyuga's single-goal focus provoked a brawl—later revealed as tactical motivation. He joined Japan's team as secondary goalkeeper, acting as translator and pushing Ken Wakashimazu through competition.
He earned the nickname "SGGK" (Super Great Goal Keeper) for extraordinary reflexes, especially against long-range shots. His efficient style minimized acrobatics, though overwhelming power could occasionally breach his defenses. Key techniques included Straight Defense, Upper Defense, and Jumping One-Handed Catch. Strong field skills encompassed the Top Spin Pass and Long Kick.
Professionally, he played for Hamburger SV in the Bundesliga. Despite Bayern Munich's interest, he stayed loyal to Hamburg. In 2008, he received a lucrative offer from Portugal's Nacional da Madeira. Proud and competitive, he prioritized team protection, often risking injury during matches. These absences provided playing time for backups like Wakashimazu and Morisaki.
His personality evolved from early arrogance to team orientation. Outwardly critical—using harsh feedback to motivate Japanese players in Europe—his underlying loyalty and commitment to collective growth remained constant. He maintained enduring rivalries with Schneider and Tsubasa, aspiring to face Tsubasa in a UEFA Champions League final.
Titles
Wakabayashi Genzo/Benjie Price