The interaction session in the gymnasium started at 2:05 PM. 150 children from 4th to 6th grade welcomed the players with smiles. Autographed sheets for the 1st to 3rd graders who couldn't attend were presented to the principal in advance.
When the players introduced themselves, the children of Nobukata Elementary School responded with energetic voices, conveying their bright and lively atmosphere.
In a demonstration, players Endo and Tanaka showed off their juggling skills. They even took on C.R.O. Nakata's request to "turn your foot around!"
They also passed the ball with the children through juggling. Many children were seen wearing Antlers uniforms.
When a teacher was nominated to try juggling, the children cheered loudly with great joy.
Children high-fiving during the interaction.
The interaction with the 4th graders was "tag." The children energetically ran around the gymnasium, dodging players Endo, Tanaka, and C.R.O. Nakata, who were "it."
For the 5th and 6th grade boys, the players split into teams for a mini-soccer match. Players Endo and Tanaka instructed the children to run towards the goal, and sometimes dribbled themselves. The children were amazed by their speed and technique!
Rather than competing to win, they enjoyed chasing the ball with great enthusiasm.
The 6th grade girls also interacted through a game of tag. Children watching from the sidelines shouted "Ganbare!" (Go for it!) with loud cheers.
Finally, children who were confident in their soccer skills came forward, and a mini-soccer match was held with 3 players against a selected team.
It was a time where everyone fully enjoyed the professional skills, including Endo's ball control, Tanaka's dribbling, and C.R.O. Nakata's heading.
At the closing ceremony, heartfelt words of thanks and bouquets were presented. When player Endo asked, "Who remembers our names?", all the children's hands went up. Player Tanaka greeted them by saying, "I've received a lot of power from everyone, so I'll do my best to be able to play in matches soon!"
Finally, the players presented autographed cards as gifts.
C.R.O. Nakata being asked for a handshake by a girl.
They exited through the aisle of children who had formed a "flower path." The players reflected on the fun interaction, saying, "Everyone was so energetic!"
