Based on the original manga by Hikaru Katsuki, Baby Steps centers on a honor student named Eiichiro Maruo who becomes frustrated with his life and decides to join the tennis club. Despite lacking experience and physical strength, he utilizes his studious nature to develop a strategic approach to playing tennis. Taking notes of his opponents’ habits and tendencies, he is able to predict their next move before they even react. He also meets Natsu Takasaki, a beautiful girl with a passion for tennis. With her help, he aims to become a professional tennis player.
<br><br>
(Source: Crunchyroll)

__Height:__ 171 cm  
__Interests:__ Film appreciation  
__Abilities:__ Mimicking chirps of small birds
__Awards:__ Best Male Rookie at 2nd Seiyuu Awards (2008)

[Twitter](https://twitter.com/hatano_official) | [Website](https://hatanowataru.dive2ent.com/)

Eiichiro Maruo is a straight-A student who decides to take up tennis as a side hobby upon entering high school. At the tennis school he runs into Natsu—a bit airheaded, but nobody can beat her in passion for the sport. Soon Eiichiro gets addicted to tennis...and when he applies his academic skills to improving his game, the results will change his life forever!
<br><br>
(Source: K-Manga)

Season 2 of Baby Steps. Maruo Eiichirou has begun his training in America and quickly realizes that he has still a long way to go. Facing his comrades in the daily matches helps him to realize his own weaknesses and his time overseas proves to be extremely valuable for his development, both as a tennis player and as a person.

Hiroshi Araya