SCHOOL REPORTS School Reports

From Saturday, November 29 to Sunday, November 30, a 2-day, 1-night trip, FC Tokyo soccer andfutsal school studentswent on an "Away Kobe Support Tour" to Hyogo Prefecture! 

 

The school students who gathered at the meeting place showed various expressions, including some who were happy to reunite after a long time and others who were a little nervous as it was their first time participating.
On the Shinkansen, while eating the bento each had brought, natural communication arose even among school students meeting for the first time.

 

As scheduled, we arrived at the futsal court inside NOEVIR Stadium Kobe, and the exchange match with Vissel Kobe school students began.

First, as an icebreaker, under the guidance of Vissel Kobe's coach, we conducted "Tag While Holding Hands" and "Dribbling While Holding Hands."
Although the children were nervous at first, they quickly warmed up to each other, actively talking and smiling more!

 

 

After that, they moved on to a color-coded competition with teams mixed from both schools.

Although the children were initially reserved, as the matches progressed, they showed more coordinated play, and there were many memorable scenes such as high-fives flying around after goals.
Even during the break, they got excited talking about soccer and became very good friends in about an hour♪

Finally, an exhibition match between FC Tokyo and Vissel Kobe was held.

Although surprised by the opponent's skillful play in the first half, in the second half the team grew more united, using their frustration as motivation, and each play showed greater attention to detail.

During the match, both teams sang each other's cheering songs, making it a very passionate exchange game.

 

 

 

Finally, we took a group photo with the new friends we met, and the exchange match came to an end.

 

 

After that, we went on a tour of NOEVIR Stadium Kobe.

 

At the press conference room we were first guided to, we toured the place where the coach actually gives comments after the match.
Among the school students, a “coach role” was selected, and a mini experience was held where they answered questions from children acting as reporters.

 

Next, at the locker room we visited, it was impressive to see the students listening intently while imagining how players prepare before a match.

We were also shown the players' entrance and the warming-up area. When the story was shared about former Vissel Kobe player Podolski making a hole in the wall with a shot, the children listened with surprise but also seemed to enjoy it.

 

 

The second day of the support tour started with waking up at 6 a.m.
Some of the school students woke up at 4 a.m., unable to calm down from the excitement of the previous day.
At breakfast, everyone was lively, talking about the exchange match and the stadium tour!

 

In the morning, we conducted a disaster experience learning session at Futaba Gakusha.
The interior had a warm atmosphere that reflected the local history, raising the children’s expectations for learning.

From a former firefighter instructor who was involved in life-saving efforts during the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake,

we heard vivid stories about on-site experiences and the decisions involved in protecting lives.

In the hands-on part, they learned practical knowledge such as how to tie ropes and rescue methods. The children engaged with serious expressions, making it a valuable time to learn the importance of protecting lives.

 

 

 

After the experience, we returned to NOEVIR Stadium Kobe.
After having lunch, we watched the FC Tokyo top team’s warm-up!
We were able to see the players' greetings up close, and when the school students cheered along with the chant, the supporters waved back, creating a warm and heartfelt moment.

 

 

 

And finally, the match viewing.
We stood up together with the supporters and cheered with all our might until the very end.
The result was a draw, but I believe it became an unforgettable match for the school students.

 

 

After the match, we bought souvenirs at Shin-Kobe Station and took the Shinkansen back to Tokyo.
As the tour neared its end, some of the school students were seen with somewhat wistful expressions.

Upon arriving at Tokyo Station, the children called out to each other, "Let's meet again!"
Over the two days, it was evident that they grew significantly not only in soccer but also in their relationships with friends and mentally.
I hope that the experience from this away support tour will serve as a foundation for continued growth!

At the FC Tokyo Soccer and Futsal School, we will continue to hold unique FC Tokyo events! We look forward to your participation!