In Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture, Daizen Maeda, who also played for Matsumoto Yamaga, and Ko Itakura, who played for Nagano City, appeared at the event. They played and interacted with the children in the rain.
The children welcomed them with applause when Maeda Daizen, a member of the Japanese national soccer team who plays in the Scottish League, appeared.
On the 23rd, he appeared at a soccer class for elementary school students held in Shiojiri City. He got active together with the children by playing mini games.
Maeda, who was formerly a member of Matsumoto Yamaga, is known for his speedy play. He showed off his quick dribbling and shooting skills even in the mini-game.
Participating elementary school students:
“He was really fast.”
After the mini-game there was an autograph session. This boy is…
Participating elementary school students:
“He signed my shoes. The ball came flying at me with so much speed, it was kind of fun, but also kind of scary.”
Unfortunately, due to rain the exchange was short, but it appears to have been a valuable experience for Maeda as well.
Japan national soccer team player Daizen Maeda:
“The only opportunity I have to play soccer with young children is during the off-season, so it was a new experience for me and I had a lot of fun. If I get the chance again, I’d like to do it. I want to do my best to give children dreams and hope.”
Meanwhile, Ko Itakura, a Japanese national team player who plays in the German Bundesliga, also appeared at Nagano U Stadium. He is holding soccer events across the country with the aim of contributing to society and giving children dreams, and on the 23rd he played mini games with 240 elementary and junior high school students.
participant:
“It was cool and well done. I hope you continue to do your best as a member of the Japanese national team.”
Japan national soccer team player Ko Itakura:
“The kids were in good spirits and enjoyed themselves despite the rain, so it was a great event thanks to everyone.”
The event also aimed to promote nutritional education, with lectures given by a registered dietitian from a local company and Itakura’s personal chef. Parents listened intently to talks about diet for maintaining a healthy body.
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