The Joy of Soccer: Building Bonds at the Kirin Family Challenge Cup 2025

The Kirin Family Challenge Cup 2025 in Chiba: Uniting Families Through Soccer

On May 31, 2025, the Kirin Family Challenge Cup, organized by Kirin Holdings Corporation and the Japan Football Association (JFA), took place at the Takayama Memorial JFA Dream Field in Chiba. This unique event promoted a joyful soccer experience where everyone, regardless of age, gender, or experience, could participate together through walking football.

Started in December 2022, the Kirin Family Challenge Cup operates under the vision of enhancing familial and social bonds through the joy of soccer. With over 1,700 participants ranging from newborns to those in their 80s, the event serves as a platform for families to unite and enjoy soccer together, creating countless smiles and unforgettable memories. The central concept, "The Day Families Become a Team," resonates deeply with attendees, providing a rare chance for multi-generational bonding through sport.

This year’s event welcomed prominent guests from the world of soccer, including Wataru Endo and Ayaka Suzuki from the SAMURAI BLUE national team, alongside former national players Ryota Moriwaki and Yosuke Kashiwagi. Their presence added excitement as they engaged in walking football with the participants, highlighting the communal spirit of the event. Attendees shared their joy, with one participant expressing, "I was so happy to score a goal! It was fun playing soccer with my family, and I feel our bond has deepened." Endo commented on the event’s success, stating, "It was a wonderful experience to see everyone, from children to seniors, enjoying soccer together, reaffirming the sport's power to unite."]

A Day of Community and Laughter

During the opening ceremony, Yuichi Yamada, the Head of Marketing Strategy at Kirin HD, encouraged everyone to come together as one team, setting a warm tone for the day. A total of 284 participants joined, creating an inclusive atmosphere filled with laughter and excitement. Endo, despite the rain, expressed his eagerness for the event, while Suzuki candidly shared his initial nervousness about playing with such a diverse group. Together, they uplifted the participants' spirits with encouraging words and playful banter.

Families formed teams, with participants aged 0 to 80 collaborating in a 5-a-side, goalkeeper-less walking football format. Creativity shone through as teams celebrated their goals with unique performances, including a heartfelt expression from an 80-year-old participant who joyfully played with his grandchildren. Participants felt the essence of generational connection, with a 70-year-old man saying, "Today was our first time enjoying soccer as a three-generation family. It was truly delightful, and I would love to join again."

An Inclusive Soccer Experience

Positive feedback poured in from both participants and guests. Suzuki expressed his delight at the fulfilling experience of walking football, stating, "This was my first time experiencing such an event, and I thoroughly enjoyed playing soccer in an environment filled with smiles. I’d love to participate again!" Endo mentioned the magic of connecting with families, showcasing the beautiful moments created through the shared love of soccer.

Moriwaki added that participating in activities with children and adults alike deepened meaningful connections, and Kashiwagi emphasized the importance of continuing events like this to foster community bonds.

Celebrating Together: A Joyful Conclusion

The event concluded with the coveted Goal Performance Award. The winning teams, recognized for their captivating performances, received prizes from the esteemed guests. The ceremony brought everyone together, as participants presented the guests with a flag, expressing their unwavering support for the Japanese national soccer team.

Mr. Kazuyuki Yukawa, JFA's Executive Director, reflected on the myriad of smiles and connections fostered throughout the event, affirming the continuation of such initiatives to deepen bonds among families and friends through soccer. He concluded, "Let’s meet again on the pitch!"

Looking Ahead

The Kirin Family Challenge Cup exemplifies the joy and unifying power of sports, promoting fundamentally important values like connection and teamwork. As seen through the smiles and laughter on that beautiful day in Chiba, this event not only highlights the significance of family but also fosters an inclusive soccer culture in Japan.

As preparations commence for the next annual event, the anticipation builds for even more families to come together, united by their shared love for soccer, illustrating that age and skill level are merely numbers on the path to connection and joy through the beautiful game.