Bringing Smiles Back: JFA and Kirin Unite for Earthquake Recovery Event in Kanazawa
According to many participants, the day proved a success in fostering new relationships and reviving spirits. A young boy from Anamizu, a town heavily impacted by the earthquake, exclaimed, "I was really looking forward to today. Playing with former national players was an unforgettable experience!" His mother added, "Since the disaster, we haven’t had many opportunities to go out, so events like this are wonderful for us as a family."
The essence of the JFA-Kirin Big Smile Field lies in its ability to create opportunities where individuals, regardless of gender, age, past soccer experiences, or disabilities, can come together. Previous gatherings have taken place in various locations throughout the Noto region, but this time, the Kanazawa event emphasized the importance of connection and joy through shared experiences in sport.
Feedback from participants highlighted the positive impact of the event, with many stating, "It was fun to be active when we lacked opportunities before" and "I’m happy to have made new friends!" This continuation of the project brought together survivors from Noto and residents of Kanazawa, reinforcing community ties through football.
The event commenced with an opening ceremony where officials from Kirin Holdings and JFA expressed their hope for a day filled with smiles and laughter. The response from attendees was heartwarming, as they celebrated being together. Special guests raised the energy levels in the stadium, with audiences giving loud cheers when their messages were broadcasted on screen. Moriyasu directed heartfelt words to participants, stating, "I hope today builds a sense of togetherness and fills us all with joy," while Kitagawa encouraged everyone to unite under the spirit of recovery.
Then it was time for the much-anticipated matches. Each of the 32 teams consisted of participants and guests playing together, regardless of age or experience. Cheers filled the air as teams performed their unique goal celebrations, showcasing the joy that football carries. One participant in his sixties remarked, “I had a valuable opportunity for social interaction. I feel grateful for being part of such an uplifting event that spreads smiles in disaster-struck areas.”
As the day progressed, former stars shared their feelings and thoughts. Sawa expressed, "Seeing everyone’s smiles brought me joy; witnessing mutual happiness is what makes these events worthwhile." Fukunishi highlighted the closeness developed through the walking football, saying, "The level of camaraderie increased, and bonds were strengthened despite our differences."
The closing ceremony emphasized the commitment of Kirin and JFA to continue these initiatives. Koichi Kitano, a special leader for JFA’s recovery efforts, ensured participants that they would strive to continue supporting the recovery in Ishikawa at large. The message resonated warmth and encouragement, igniting hope for many in attendance.
Reflecting on the day, participants and guests acknowledged the importance of such gatherings for fostering connections and rebuilding communities. As Fukunishi mentioned, these events not only aid physical recovery but reawaken spirits and human bonds, making strides in preventing memories of disasters from fading.
In conclusion, the JFA-Kirin Big Smile Field encapsulates more than just a sports event; it signifies resilience, community engagement, and the power of unity in the face of adversity. Through walking football, laughter, and shared experiences, a collective sense of optimism thrived in Kanazawa, lighting the path towards recovery and togetherness, one smile at a time.
The essence of the JFA-Kirin Big Smile Field lies in its ability to create opportunities where individuals, regardless of gender, age, past soccer experiences, or disabilities, can come together. Previous gatherings have taken place in various locations throughout the Noto region, but this time, the Kanazawa event emphasized the importance of connection and joy through shared experiences in sport.
Feedback from participants highlighted the positive impact of the event, with many stating, "It was fun to be active when we lacked opportunities before" and "I’m happy to have made new friends!" This continuation of the project brought together survivors from Noto and residents of Kanazawa, reinforcing community ties through football.
The event commenced with an opening ceremony where officials from Kirin Holdings and JFA expressed their hope for a day filled with smiles and laughter. The response from attendees was heartwarming, as they celebrated being together. Special guests raised the energy levels in the stadium, with audiences giving loud cheers when their messages were broadcasted on screen. Moriyasu directed heartfelt words to participants, stating, "I hope today builds a sense of togetherness and fills us all with joy," while Kitagawa encouraged everyone to unite under the spirit of recovery.
Then it was time for the much-anticipated matches. Each of the 32 teams consisted of participants and guests playing together, regardless of age or experience. Cheers filled the air as teams performed their unique goal celebrations, showcasing the joy that football carries. One participant in his sixties remarked, “I had a valuable opportunity for social interaction. I feel grateful for being part of such an uplifting event that spreads smiles in disaster-struck areas.”
As the day progressed, former stars shared their feelings and thoughts. Sawa expressed, "Seeing everyone’s smiles brought me joy; witnessing mutual happiness is what makes these events worthwhile." Fukunishi highlighted the closeness developed through the walking football, saying, "The level of camaraderie increased, and bonds were strengthened despite our differences."
The closing ceremony emphasized the commitment of Kirin and JFA to continue these initiatives. Koichi Kitano, a special leader for JFA’s recovery efforts, ensured participants that they would strive to continue supporting the recovery in Ishikawa at large. The message resonated warmth and encouragement, igniting hope for many in attendance.
Reflecting on the day, participants and guests acknowledged the importance of such gatherings for fostering connections and rebuilding communities. As Fukunishi mentioned, these events not only aid physical recovery but reawaken spirits and human bonds, making strides in preventing memories of disasters from fading.
In conclusion, the JFA-Kirin Big Smile Field encapsulates more than just a sports event; it signifies resilience, community engagement, and the power of unity in the face of adversity. Through walking football, laughter, and shared experiences, a collective sense of optimism thrived in Kanazawa, lighting the path towards recovery and togetherness, one smile at a time.
Topics Sports）
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