The players arrived in Mutsu City close to noon and joined a luncheon with elementary school students and teachers from the city at a hotel. They enjoyed lively conversation while eating and accommodated requests for autographs and photos.
After the luncheon, they moved to Shimokita Katsuyuki Dome to start the soccer school. The players greeted everyone, saying, "We'll do our best."
First, they warmed up with games like tag. The children, holding hands and running with the players, were full of smiles. Laughter echoed through the venue.
After that, due to the large number of participants, the children were divided into two groups: lower grades and upper grades. C.R.O. Nakata and player Abe coached the lower grades, while player Ogasawara, player Yamaguchi, and coach Aono coached the upper grades, focusing on basic drills like dribbling and passing. C.R.O. Nakata instructed on dribbling points, saying, "Look around carefully and touch the ball with small touches."
After the basic drills, they played games with multiple balls. The players showcased their individual skills, exciting the venue. Player Ogasawara even gave "passionate guidance" by teaching children how to juggle during breaks.
Finally, a mini-game was held between the players and the children. Mayor Miyashita of Mutsu City, who had attended since the opening ceremony, also made a surprise appearance and, true to his words "I played soccer until university," showed off impressive play, surprising player Ogasawara, who is the same age, with "He's quite good."
At the closing ceremony, everyone gave a brief greeting. Player Abe said, "Practice is important, of course, but it's also crucial to listen carefully to your coaches and teachers and manage your daily life, such as acting according to schedule. I hope to play with you all someday."
This soccer school is held annually with the cooperation of Antlers' official sponsors, Joso Kaihatsu Kogyo and Aomori Clean.
