Shōhei Harada, often referred to as the boxing manager, is a supporting character in the Touch series. He is a stocky and physically imposing student at Meisei High School with an intimidating appearance that belies his true nature. Despite his large build and gruff exterior, Harada is the captain and star of the school's boxing club and plays a crucial role in the life of the protagonist, Tatsuya Uesugi.

Harada's most significant contribution to the story is his decision to recruit Tatsuya into the boxing club. He observes that Tatsuya possesses extraordinary natural strength and physical gifts, which are initially going to waste as Tatsuya lives an unfocused life as a slacker. More importantly, Harada understands the complicated emotional dynamics of the love triangle between Tatsuya, his twin brother Kazuya, and their neighbor Minami Asakura. He sees that Tatsuya is deliberately staying in the shadow of his more accomplished and academically successful brother. Harada's primary motivation is to give Tatsuya his own arena, pulling him out of that shadow and providing a counterbalance to his brother's dominance in baseball. By recruiting him, he hopes to help Tatsuya build his own sense of worth and not be completely defined by his family rivalry or his unspoken feelings for Minami.

While rough and direct in his approach, Harada serves as a perceptive advisor and a spiritual guide to the main characters. His ability to analyze situations and his understanding of human nature are far sharper than his intimidating presence might suggest. Throughout the series, he frequently offers Tatsuya sound and thoughtful advice on various personal matters, demonstrating a sincere concern for the younger man's well-being and development, not just as an athlete but as a person. This makes him one of the few characters who fully comprehends the emotional turmoil and silent sacrifices made by the protagonist.

A notable and recurring trait of Harada is his unfortunate susceptibility to a variety of unusual and often comical illnesses. These bizarre health problems frequently require him to be hospitalized, which stands in stark contrast to his tough, athletic appearance. Despite these physical setbacks, his role as a mentor remains consistent. His key relationships are primarily with Tatsuya, whom he pushes to realize his potential, and more broadly with the Asakura and Uesugi families, where he acts as a grounded and insightful observer. His notable ability is not just his boxing prowess but his profound emotional intelligence, which allows him to give effective guidance during the most critical and delicate moments of the story.