After an early morning bullet train ride, upon arriving in Mutsu City, they first had lunch with local elementary and junior high school students. During the lunch, they deepened their interaction with the children by signing autographs and taking photos.
Afterward, they moved to Shimokita Katsuyuki Dome in the city to hold the soccer clinic. This year marked the 10th time the clinic was held, with over 250 participants, and it has been growing in popularity every year.
The players actively communicated with the children and enjoyed playing soccer together.
The children were also having a lot of fun!
Player Shibasaki, who is from Aomori, was the most popular. Even during breaks, he was surrounded by children.
Finally, there was an autograph session. The players signed autographs for the participating children for as long as time permitted.
Mayor Miyashita of Mutsu City, where the event was held, was also born in '79 like Motoyama and was a member of a soccer club. He even joined the children's mini-game and quickly hit it off with the players.
Kashima Antlers will continue to interact with children nationwide through such soccer clinics.