Historic theme songs of Netto Koshien
Nettou Koshien is a special program broadcast on the TV Asahi network every year to coincide with the Summer Koshien tournament, starting in 1981.
The show is packed with everything about high school baseball—from highlights of the day’s games to the journeys players take to reach the Koshien stage, and the tears of those who end up on the losing side.
What makes the players’ passion shine even brighter are the theme songs performed each year by various artists.
Many viewers may find themselves moved to tears by the songs that play alongside the players’ intense efforts.
In this article, we’ll introduce the theme songs of Nettou Koshien!
You might even find the song that colored the game which shook your heart.
Nettou Koshien Theme Songs Through the Years (1–10)
Gate of GloryHirai Dai
Written as a summer high school baseball cheer song, Dai Hirai’s 38th digital-only single is a soothing number where his gentle vocals ride a comfortable beat to heal the heart.
Released in July 2022, the track was also chosen as the theme song for TV Asahi’s “Nettou Koshien.” Its positive message about the future beyond winning and losing reminds us of the importance of taking on challenges.
An emotional pop tune with an organic ensemble that stays close to the heart.
Precious SummerHamada Mari
As a song filled with the passionate spirit that colors summer high school baseball, it has left a lasting impression on many people’s hearts.
Used as the opening theme for “Netto Koshien” in 1991 and 1992, the track is memorable for Mari Hamada’s powerful vocals and its refreshing melody.
It conveys the importance of cherishing every moment of youth spent pursuing dreams and courage, and the value of becoming kinder because of those experiences.
Included on the album “TOMORROW,” which peaked at No.
2 on the Oricon album chart, this song continues to be loved by many listeners as a piece that lingers in the heart alongside memories of summer.
As your heart desiresElefanto Kashimashi
A gem of a track by The Elephant Kashimashi that powerfully supports the dreams and passion of high school baseball players.
Released in September 1998 as the theme song for “Netto Koshien,” this piece features Hiroji Miyamoto’s emotionally charged vocals, which seem to speak on behalf of the players’ burning determination.
Its repeated phrases make it a perfect anthem for young people aiming for Koshien.
The song was also used in the film “Lightning Over the Plain” (Ai ni Inazuma), vividly expressing the protagonist’s struggles and perseverance.
For anyone who once devoted themselves wholeheartedly to something in their youth, this is a song that will surely set your heart ablaze.
Scarred HeroTUBE
Songs by TUBE that stir listeners’ hearts with passionate spirit and powerful sound.
As a track that brightens up high school baseball—an iconic symbol of summer—it was included on the album “Owaranai Natsu ni,” released in June 1994.
Chosen as the opening theme for TV Asahi’s program “Netto Koshien,” this song is a fight anthem that gives courage to face setbacks and hardships.
Atsushi Maeda’s powerful vocals and Michiya Haruhata’s fiery guitar resonate deeply.
It’s frequently featured during the high school baseball season and is beloved as an encouraging song for many young people.
A must-listen for anyone tackling club activities or entrance exams.
Photograph feat. Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra Horn SectionEXILE ATSUSHI
Singer EXILE ATSUSHI, who continues to captivate fans with his sweet vocals and cool looks.
This is a digital single chosen as the theme song for the digest documentary program “Nettou Koshien,” co-written with members of Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra’s horn section.
Released in June 2023, the song features striking lyrics that evoke the pursuit of dreams and goals.
No matter the outcome, the message that the act of striving itself becomes a lasting memory will resonate with anyone who devoted themselves to something in their youth.
With its rich sound and soulful melody, it’s an emotional track that feels truly satisfying.
The Day the Rainbow DisappearedHata Motohiro
A song by Motohiro Hata themed around lost dreams and hopes, and the belief in the future that lies beyond them.
Its clear, translucent vocals and lyrical words resonate deeply.
Released in June 2008, it was used as a film’s theme song and as the final-day ending theme for the 2008 season of “Nettou Koshien.” Expressing a strong will to overcome disappointment and setbacks and to find hope once again, it’s perfect for anyone ready to take a new step forward.
Even while carrying anxiety about the future, this is a song that gives you the courage to keep chasing your dreams.
Because I’ve always loved you.neguse.
A four-piece rock band from Nagoya, Neguse, created this track.
It was written specifically as the 2024 summer high school baseball cheer song and the theme for Nettō Kōshien.
Characterized by rap and choral sections that express the energy and passion of youth, it depicts high school ballplayers pressing forward even in the face of adversity.
The song was released digitally on June 7, 2024, and will be aired on daily broadcasts of high school baseball coverage during the tournament.
Its message—that despite grueling practices and strict coaching, the reason they keep going is simply “because they love it”—is sure to lift listeners’ spirits.