Introduction
The world of sports is increasingly intertwining with community initiatives, and the recent crowdfunding project initiated by
FC QOL MITO CIRUELA, a women's soccer team based in Mito, Japan, is a prime example. Titled
PITCH to PLATE second edition, this initiative aims to cultivate
nora-bō vegetables, a rare local winter delicacy, while empowering athletes to take part in agricultural endeavors.
Background of the Project
The project arises from a combination of passion for the sport and a drive to contribute positively to the local community. FC QOL MITO CIRUELA stands as a testament to the spirit of athletes who balance their sports careers alongside work and education. They strive for excellence despite limited financial resources, showcasing the potential of creativity and community support in achieving their goals.
In the current era, athletes like those from Mito Ciruela are seen not just as competitors but as role models who carry the weight of societal expectations. This project embodies the vision of creating a synergy between agriculture and soccer, illustrating that both require continuous effort, dedication, and community engagement.
The Vision
The
PITCH to PLATE project aims to create a sustainable farming operation in Mito, focusing on the cultivation of nora-bō vegetables. These vegetables not only enhance local cuisine but also represent a link between the athletes and their surrounding community. The concept hinges on the idea that athletes can grow these vegetables, which will then be consumed by the community, thus fostering a cycle of local support and well-being.
The project is part of a broader mission to provide dreams and hope to the local community, positioning athletes as active participants in their environment. By engaging in agriculture, these athletes cultivate not just crops but also a sense of purpose and responsibility.
Goals and Initiatives
Mito Ciruela's powerful goal is to ascend through the ranks of women's soccer leagues, targeting a move from the
Kanto Second Division to the prestigious
Nadeshiko League. However, achieving this ambition necessitates a robust framework of support, particularly through innovative fundraising mechanisms such as the PITCH to PLATE project.
The direct benefits of the project include:
1.
Initial Target of 300,000 JPY: For establishing the Mito Ciruela Farm and initiating the farming process.
2.
Secondary Target of 400,000 JPY: To reinforce cultivation and harvesting structures.
3.
Tertiary Target of 500,000 JPY: To expand the initiative sustainably by increasing community involvement.
Engaging the Community
The project is structured as a collective initiative, encouraging local residents, supporters, and athletes to participate in activities such as sowing seeds and harvesting crops. This communal involvement not only strengthens ties among community members but also highlights the shared journey towards a robust local identity centered around both sports and agriculture.
Additionally, spaces for participatory experiences will be organized to foster a deeper connection between athletes and their supporters. Through these engagements, the Mito Ciruela team will break down barriers between urban life and rural agriculture, fostering a sense of unity.
Conclusion
In the spirit of nurturing talent both on the field and in the community, Mito Ciruela's
PITCH to PLATE crowdfunding project stands as a unique testament to the power of sports as a catalyst for positive change. It is a call to action for all—athletes, community members, and sports enthusiasts—to rally around a common cause that transcends the traditional boundaries of sports and into sustainable living. By supporting this initiative, we not only bolster the growth of a women's soccer team but also contribute to cultivating a vibrant community spirit filled with dreams of success, health, and unity.
This ambitious journey awaits the support of all, echoing the overarching message: "Together, we grow strong."