Series & First Appearance
Momotarou Mikoshiba is a character from the popular swimming-themed anime and manga series, Free!, created by Kyoto Animation. He made his first appearance in the anime’s second season, Free! – Eternal Summer, specifically in Episode 1, titled "The Match". The series debuted in 2013 and has been well received for its animation quality and character development.
Profile at a Glance
Momotarou, often affectionately called Momo, is a 15-16-year-old male swimmer affiliated with the Samezuka Academy swim team. Standing at 172 cm (5’8") and weighing 59 kg (130 lbs), he specializes in backstroke, showcasing remarkable skill in this discipline. Known for his competitive spirit and charming personality, Momo has a reputation as a strong swimmer, having established himself as a notable figure back in his middle school years.
Personality & Motivations
Momotarou is characterized by his friendly demeanor and a playful nature, often displaying a cheerful attitude that lifts the spirits of those around him. He is known for his competitive streak and confidence, often claiming to be a well-renowned swimmer in his hometown, even dubbing himself "The Sea of Japan’s Sea Otter." One of his quirks is his deep fascination with collecting Stag Beetles, which serves as a unique insight into his hobbies outside of swimming. His primary motivation stems from a desire to compete and improve his abilities as a swimmer, gaining respect and recognition among his peers.
Abilities / Powers
As a gifted swimmer, Momotarou excels particularly in backstroke, showcasing incredible speed and technique in the water. His agility allows him to navigate races effectively, often leading to impressive performances. While he boasts a high level of confidence in his abilities, he occasionally struggles with self-doubt, especially when faced with formidable opponents like Rin and Haruka. Throughout his journey in Free!, his skills evolve, reflecting his hard work and dedication to improving as an athlete.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Momotarou’s character development is notably highlighted in the Free! – Eternal Summer arc, where he initially appears as a newcomer but gradually solidifies his role as an essential team member of Samezuka Academy. Key episodes include his interactions with team members like Rin and Sosuke, where he confronts both friendship and rivalry, leading to his growth as a more confident individual. His character arc also showcases the importance of teamwork and camaraderie, culminating in several pivotal relay races.
Notable Relationships
Momotarou shares a close bond with his older brother, Seijuro Mikoshiba, who also plays an integral role in his life as a mentor and source of inspiration. Key friendships develop within the Samezuka Academy swimming team, especially with Rin Matsuoka, Aiichiro Nitori, and Sosuke Yamazaki. Their collective journey is essential for Momo’s character arc, as each relationship adds depth to his personality and pushes him to grow as both a swimmer and an individual.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs in Episode 4 of Free! – Eternal Summer, where Momotarou declares his intentions to win the regional tournament, showcasing his competitive spirit and determination. His catchy phrase, “Let’s swim like otters!”, resonates with fans, highlighting his lighthearted nature and enthusiasm for swimming. These moments not only endear him to the audience but also symbolize his fighting spirit and ambition.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Momotarou Mikoshiba has become a fan-favorite character, often appearing in popularity polls, where he ranks among the top protagonists in the Free! series. The character’s design incorporates elements that reflect his vibrant personality, from his playful expressions to his swimmer’s physique. In the Japanese version of the anime, he is voiced by Yoshimasa Hosoya, while the English dub features Matt Shipman, both of whom successfully convey Momotarou’s upbeat tone and dynamic persona. Fans appreciate his unique hobbies, such as Stag Beetle collecting, as it adds another layer of relatability to his character.
Overall, Momotarou Mikoshiba stands as a significant character in the Free! franchise, embodying the themes of friendship, determination, and personal growth embodied within the story. His journey as a swimmer and his relationships with his teammates further enrich the narrative, granting audiences a nuanced look at the complexities of young athletes striving to find their place in the competitive world of swim.
