The team failed to avoid relegation, official: Niigata Swans coach Toru Irie resigned after the end of the season

6686 Sports reported on November 13 that the Japanese Professional League team Niigata Swans officially announced that team coach Tetsu Irie will leave his post at the end of the season.

Toru Irie's coaching career began with the Niigata Swans youth team. He later coached the youth team and the first team, and officially took over as head coach in June this year. Although the team worked diligently to avoid relegation, they were still ranked at the bottom after 36 rounds and have been relegated to the J2 League.

Toru Irie said: "My heartfelt thanks to all the fans, partners and all those who have provided enthusiastic support to the Niigata Swans. I have decided to step down as the first-team coach at the end of this season. With everyone's support, I have come all the way, but unfortunately, I failed to meet everyone's expectations and the season ended in this way. I would like to express my sincere apologies to everyone."

"The players and staff work hard every day to do their best. Go ahead and try your best to win. I sincerely thank them for their sincere attitude. As the coach entrusted with leading the team, I feel a heavy responsibility because I will not be able to fully convert this strength into results in the remaining two games of this season. We will do our best to pass on our fighting spirit to every fan who supports the club. Thank you very much for your enthusiastic support."