Yeah, definitely remember reading at some point around these last few volumes that we're getting to the end. Been wondering how soon that really is, and I do actually expect it to be around the end of the tournament. Umino-sensei isn't getting any younger, and it's sounded like the work is quite draining for her at this point.
And great seeing more development on Rei becoming more integrated into the Kawamoto family. And as someone who feels like he'd personally prefer Akari... people need to get over the fact that Rei chose Hina. He doesn't exist to represent me or any other reader or our tastes. Hell, if anything, I'd be inclined to identify with the older, less innately talented characters, anyway. Like Hayashida-sensei or Shimada who have both been setup in the past as possible love interests for Akari as it is.