At Nadeshiko Japan World Match held at Kincho Stadium (Osaka city, Osaka) on Thu. 8 May, the players of JFA Academy Sakai, based in Sakai, Osaka, supported match operations including ball person, flag bearer and entrance staff handing out commemorating gifts at the entrance gate.

JFA Academy put an emphasis on fostering a rich humanity off the pitch through the program called “JFA Program”.  It was a valuable experience of the players because they realized “you can hold the game not only by the players and referees but also by many supporting staff.”

Comments by JFA Academy students

INUI Riko, JFA Academy Sakai 1st Generation (Cerezo Osaka Sakai Girls)
I gave out commemorating gifts at entrance gate. I was very happy when the visitors said sometimes “Thank you” to me. And I tried to hand out the gifts from the bottom of my heart.
I have one thing I felt while I was supporting the match operations. That is, important to thank the other people, supporting staffs are working hard to make it the successful game and they are the people necessary for the match. I am sure the game wouldn’t go as planned without those supporting staff. I wish to express my thanks to those supporting the game in the future.

MAEKAWA Noa, JFA Academy Sakai 2nd Generation (FC Takatsuki Junior Youth)
My role was to hand out commemorative gifts to visitors at the entrance gate. I learned I should not give out the gifts showing no expression, the client would feel very comfortable if I do that with smile on my face and it makes me feel good. I tried to exchange greetings proactively with those passing by.

YAMAMOTO Nanami, JFA Academy Sakai 3rd Generation (INAC Kobe Leonessa U-15)
I was a ball person. I was really nervous before the kick-off because it was my first time to do ball person. It was good I was able to make an eye contact with players and gave the ball to them. It was a very good experience for me to see how the players play on the pitch right in front of me.