This event was a unique opportunity for participants to pitch tents and stay overnight on the stadium pitch. Once again, with the cooperation of JA Kyosai Ren Ibaraki, vegetables for meals and souvenirs were provided, and an Ibaraki vegetable quiz event and "Vegecheck" were held.
In previous years, this event was held during the summer vacation period, but this year the timing was changed due to concerns about the impact of recent summer heatwaves on participants' health. A total of 39 groups and 134 people participated.
Even though the event was held outside of the summer, hydration is crucial for camping. Therefore, Suntory Natural Water was distributed to all participants beforehand.
DAY 1: Saturday, May 31st
■Opening Ceremony and Orientation
Due to the weather, the opening ceremony was held indoors, marking the start of the "Antlers Stadium Camp."
First, it was time to set up tents. Despite struggling with strong winds, participants and staff worked together to successfully set up all the tents.
■Quiz Event, Handmade Pizza Experience, and BBQ
With the cooperation of JA Kyosai Ren Ibaraki, a quiz event about Ibaraki vegetables was held. Participants were very surprised by the large variety of vegetables for which Ibaraki Prefecture boasts the highest production volume, and it was an opportunity to deepen their knowledge of agricultural products harvested and produced in the prefecture.
This time, with the theme of "cooking together," participants experienced making handmade pizzas and barbecuing using Ibaraki ingredients. For pizza making, participants stretched the dough, topped it with Ibaraki specialties like bell peppers from JA Namegata Shiosai, and even baked it in the oven. Many also commented that the taste was "very delicious," making for a moment filled with smiles.
The rock-paper-scissors tournament with Anton also started, making the venue very lively.
The barbecue involved starting a fire, which was a challenging task, but participants were able to enjoy a hearty menu including "Hitachi no Kagayaki" brand pork from Ibaraki Prefecture, bell peppers, and other items provided by our sponsors. Yakisoba was also made using oil sponsored by Showa Sangyo.
■Public Viewing and Museum Opening
After dinner, it was time for the long-awaited public viewing. The match between Kashima Antlers and Gamba Osaka in the 2025 Meiji Yasuda J1 League Section 19 was projected on the large screen, and participants enthusiastically cheered for the players from the stadium pitch. Other activities included friendship bracelet making and a cardboard maze.
Unfortunately, the sky balloons planned for the evening could not be carried out due to strong winds, but the "night museum" decorated with balloons was opened. Participants enjoyed exploring the museum and spending a relaxing time on the pitch.
DAY 2: Sunday, June 1st
■Stadium Walk and Breakfast
On the second day, the weather recovered, and the morning air in Kashima was pleasantly cool. The day began with a leisurely walk around the stadium. Participants experienced the "morning stadium," a sight usually unseen.
■Soccer Experience
After breakfast, a soccer experience was held. This year, the academy coaches led the event, making it enjoyable for both adults and children.
■Walk Rally and Mystery Solving
This year, a two-day walk rally and mystery solving event was held within the stadium. Prizes were given to winners chosen by lottery from those who answered all questions correctly.
■Stadium Tour
A stadium tour was held at the end of the program. Participants heard stories not typically shared on regular tours, and many commented that they were "very satisfied."
■Closing Ceremony
At the closing ceremony, an awards presentation was held for those who correctly answered all questions in the mystery solving and walk rally. Finally, participants received certificates and souvenirs from Shikako, marking the end of all scheduled events.
This year's camp was affected by rain and wind on the first day, but the second day concluded with clear skies. Held in pleasant early summer temperatures, participants left the stadium with bright smiles.
Closing Ceremony Highlights
Finally, a group photo was taken with all participants.
As souvenirs, participants received "Ibaraki King" melons from JA Hokota and dried sweet potatoes from JA Hitachi, provided by JA Kyosai Ren Ibaraki, as well as "Pizza Mix" from Showa Sangyo Co., Ltd., so they could enjoy Ibaraki specialties and pizza making at home.
Special Sponsors
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