The two players waiting to enter outside the gymnasium
After receiving a welcoming address from a student representative, both players introduced themselves. Player Doi greeted them with, "I came here today to have a fun time. I hope to make many good memories!" Player Sokko also addressed them in Japanese, saying, "Hello everyone! Nice to meet you!"
Next was a Q&A session. Both players answered questions from the children. When asked, "Who was the player you looked up to when you were a child?" Player Doi answered, "Mitsuo Ogasawara," and the children buzzed with excitement. Player Sokko replied, "Hong Myung-bo," a former South Korean national team player.
Following that, they performed a juggling demonstration with children who volunteered. Player Doi held the microphone and recruited student representatives. At Doi's nomination, Player Sokko also demonstrated juggling with headers. Player Sokko also showed off a powerful long kick that almost reached the gymnasium ceiling, much to the children's delight.
Player Sokko demonstrating skillful juggling
After the demonstration, they enjoyed "Janken Soccer." In this game, janken (rock-paper-scissors) is likened to soccer, and if you keep winning, you score a goal. The two players stood at the back as goalkeepers, with three children lined up vertically in front of them as defenders. The attacking children started by playing janken with the teacher all at once. If they won, they moved forward and played janken sequentially with the children acting as defenders.
After winning three consecutive janken matches against the three children acting as defenders, it was time for the showdown with the players. If they won, it was a "goal," and they shook hands with the player and joined the line at the back. If they lost, they had to start all over again.
Player Doi, who couldn't help but laugh after winning five or more consecutive janken matches against the children.
Finally, a student representative gave a heartwarming message: "Playing games with you has created wonderful memories. Please continue to do your best. We're cheering for you!" Player Doi responded, "I was so happy to see everyone so energetic, and I received a lot of energy from you all. I hope you'll come to the stadium to cheer for us again!" Player Sokko added, "I received a lot of energy. I was so happy to be welcomed from the moment I entered the gymnasium. I want to win matches and give everyone as much excitement and courage as I received from them."
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