The Alameda Kono All-Stars were a team of Nisei players from Central and Northern California organized by California businessman, Harry Kono. In 1937, they toured the Far East, playing teams from Japan, Korea, Manchuria, China and Russia. The Alameda team compiled a 41-20-1 record on the Tour against very tough amateur and semi-pro competition.

The Alameda Konos were truly a Nisei all star team. Kono and "Dean of the Diamond" Kenichi Zenimura managed the team. Zenimura was not allowed to play against Japanese University players because he was ruled to be a professional player. Team member Kenso Nushida had previously pitched several in several games for the Sacramento Solons of the P.C.L., but still played on the Tour. Den "Frank" Yamada and Kiyomitsu Nogami were impressive enough during the Tour that they stayed in Japan to join the Braves team in Japan Pro Baseball. Nogami ultimately made a fortune in the ice cream cone business. Players Shiro Kawakami and Tut Iwahashi joined the Dairen team in the very strong Manchurian League. 

This ticket entitled the bearer to witness the first game of the Tour. The opponent was Keio University. It is interesting that the team's opening contest of the Tour was against Keio, since the Tour (at least the Japanese portion) was sponsored by rival Meiji U. The ticket was used, as it is punched. This is the only ticket from this game, or from any game on the 1937 Alameda Tour that we have ever encountered.

Size: 3 1/2" x 2 3/8"

Condition: The ticket is missing paper near the center because of previous attachment to an album page. It was used at the game, since it was punched at upper center. Also, there is a slight tear at the left edge and a long crease at left.