Kochou Kikusaka joined the baseball team as Noriko Owari's replacement after Owari retired to focus on the newspaper club. Previously a sprinter on the track team, Kikusaka was recruited following an extensive search for a player who could contribute meaningfully.

She initially struggled with reluctance and uncertainty about the transition to baseball. Her track coach voiced dissatisfaction with the switch, and she personally grappled with maintaining speed over baseball's longer distances. Low confidence led her to underestimate how her sprinting skills could apply and left her skeptical of her potential team impact.

A pivotal conversation with English teacher Anna Curtland shifted her perspective. Curtland encouraged Kikusaka to embrace the unique opportunity. This advice ultimately motivated Kikusaka to commit to the team, driven by a sense of responsibility not to disappoint her new teammates despite her initial reservations.

As center fielder, her exceptional speed proved crucial for covering the outfield and reaching bases quickly. She roomed with fellow teammate Kyouko Sakurami in the school dormitory. Personality-wise, Kikusaka exhibited a reserved and quiet demeanor, contrasting with more energetic teammates. This temperament sometimes masked her athletic capabilities, which became fully apparent only through her baseball involvement.

Her journey traces a path from hesitant recruit to committed team member, navigating internal doubts and external pressures while discovering how her specific athletic talents could thrive in a new context.