First, Fumio Koizumi, Representative Director and President of Kashima Antlers, stated, "I am grateful for the support received from so many people across Japan. This time, we conducted a unique and innovative crowdfunding project utilizing the 'hometown tax' system. I would like to express my gratitude to the five hometown cities, including Kashima City, who endorsed this initiative." He then thanked the hometowns, including Kashima City, and explained the overview, results, and reward details of the crowdfunding project.
Next, Mayor Koichi Nishikiori of Kashima City, who played a leading role in implementing the crowdfunding as a representative of the hometowns, spoke about his feelings towards the club: "This crowdfunding project received donations from 2,599 people. We received support and cooperation from people within and outside Ibaraki Prefecture, and it truly made me feel again that Antlers fans are all over the country. Antlers regularly engages in various initiatives with local governments. I believe this forms the foundation and shows that the club is deeply rooted in the community. I intend to continue supporting Antlers."
After the press conference, we proceeded to the certificate presentation ceremony.
Mayor Nishikiori presented the certificate.
