Upon arrival, the 1st and 2nd graders greeted us with high-fives. Everyone gave us high-fives with big smiles and lots of energy. The players were surprised by such an enthusiastic welcome, saying, "You're all so energetic!"
After the opening remarks, the players immediately gave a demonstration. When Machida demonstrated his skills with juggling, there was a huge cheer. For heading with their heads, all the children counted loudly, "1! 2!..." as he juggled. Finally, Nakata C.R.O also juggled, and he did more repetitions than Machida, which drew huge cheers. Children who were good at soccer, and even teachers, participated, making it a great success.
Rock-Paper-Scissors Train with 3rd and 4th graders
There were so many people, and shouts of joy and disappointment over wins and losses filled the air everywhere. Machida won repeatedly and kept pumping his fist, but he couldn't beat the line of children who wanted to compete with the players, so he lost. He quickly joined the train.
Tail Tag with 5th graders
When someone's tail was taken, they'd shout, "Shoji-kun! Sit here!" He was very popular.
After his tail was taken, Machida also enjoyed talking and taking pictures with the children.
In the second round, the players became the "oni" (taggers) and chased the children's tails. Shoji even lifted children up and snatched their tails. Eventually, children clung to Shoji's legs, making him unable to move. Nakata C.R.O teased Shoji, saying, "Gen, your legs have gotten thick!" and Shoji gave a wry smile.
Dodgeball with 6th graders
In dodgeball, Shoji acted as the referee and performed microphone announcements. It became Machida's team vs. Nakata C.R.O's team. The children were serious, and some even cried when hit by the ball. Machida's team won, but there was an encore request for "one more game!" Even then, Machida's team won again, and he celebrated with a fist pump.
Nakata C.R.O protecting the girls
Finally, there was a commemorative photo session for each grade. The event concluded with words of thanks and gifts from the players.
Machida: "It was a short time, but I'm glad we had such an enjoyable time. We'd be happy if you continue to support us, Antlers."
Shoji: "I had a great time. This weekend, we have an important match for the 1st stage championship. Please come to the stadium to support us."
Nakata C.R.O: "Everyone was full of energy, and we had fun too. There are still more Antlers matches, so please come to the stadium and cheer for us."
