Series & First Appearance
Aiichirou Nitori is a character from the anime series "Free!" and first appears in Episode 1 titled "The Swimming Club When We Were Kids." Created by Kōji Otomo and based on the light novel series "High Speed!" by Kōji Miyamoto, the anime is produced by the studio Kyoto Animation.
Profile at a Glance
Aiichirou Nitori is a 15-year-old first-year student at Samezuka Academy and serves as a member of the school’s swim team. He is notably Rin Matsuoka’s roommate and is a rising star in the swimming world, known for his unique abilities and potential. Nitori displays a growing proficiency in competitive swimming, leading to his eventual nomination to become the new captain of the swimming club after the graduation of the third years.
Personality & Motivations
Nitori is depicted as a cheerful and earnest individual with a deep passion for swimming. He is often expressive about his feelings and exhibits a certain shyness, particularly around more accomplished swimmers. A key trait of his personality is his determination to improve and prove himself, which drives him to push beyond his limits. He often looks up to Rin and admires his capabilities, seeking to enhance his performance to keep up. Nitori is characterized by his endearing catchphrase, “Nya!”, which reflects his playful side and affection for cats.
Abilities / Powers
Nitori is an adept swimmer, specializing in freestyle and butterfly strokes. His talent is complemented by his agility and speed in the water, making him a formidable competitor. Throughout the series, Nitori showcases a blend of technique and enthusiasm in his swimming style, helping him to refine his skills. However, he also faces challenges in confidence and competing against more experienced swimmers, an internal struggle that evolves as he seeks validation and improvement.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
As the series progresses, one of Nitori’s significant arcs revolves around his aspiration to follow in Rin’s footsteps while carving out his identity as a swimmer. His evolution is particularly evident in Season 2, where he grapples with the pressure of competing at a higher level, especially during the national championships. Moreover, his relationship with Rin serves as a catalyst for his growth, as he navigates the complexities of friendship, rivalry, and personal ambition. A turning point occurs in the "Bus Tour" arc where he confronts his insecurities, pushing him to embrace his individuality.
Notable Relationships
Nitori’s interactions with other characters are pivotal to his development. His close bond with Rin Matsuoka is both inspirational and challenging; Rin’s success propels Nitori to strive for excellence while also inducing feelings of comparison. His camaraderie with fellow team members, including Haruka Nanase and Makoto Tachibana, fosters a supportive environment that aids his growth. Additionally, his rivalry with characters like Nagisa Hazuki creates moments of healthy competition that further energize his commitment to the sport.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment for Nitori occurs when he participates in his first significant swim competition, showcasing his growth and determination to make a name for himself (Season 1, Episode 5). It exemplifies his evolution from a timid swimmer into a confident competitor striving for recognition. Another poignant scene is during the national championship where he pushes himself to swim faster, embodying his relentless pursuit of improvement and reflecting the core themes of friendship and dedication in the series.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Aiichirou Nitori has captured the hearts of fans, earning a spot among the character favorites in the series, with over 246 member favorites on various anime platforms. He is voiced by the talented Japanese actor Takuma Terashima and is dubbed by Matt Mercer in the English version. Nitori’s character design and personality have drawn comparisons to the nurturing and whimsical nature often associated with cats, contributing to his charm. His birthday is celebrated on January 4, and he is symbolically represented by the Capricorn zodiac sign, which resonates with his persevering and disciplined nature.
Nitori also stands out in popularity polls within the "Free!" fandom, often ranking high due to his relatable struggles and endearing personality. His character resonates with themes of dedication, ambition, and the importance of friendship, enabling him to create a lasting impact in the anime landscape.
Overall, Aiichirou Nitori serves as a representation of youthful ambition and the journey of self-discovery amidst competitive pressures, making him a beloved character in the "Free!" series for both his strengths and vulnerabilities.
