KDDI Corporation, which has a partner agreement with the Japan Football Association (JFA), held a “Future Talent Co-Creation Workshop: ‘Let’s Think About the Future of Soccer and Become the Japan National Team'” on the 26th. The workshop aimed to create a society where anyone can achieve their dreams through soccer and was attended by 30 elementary school students (grades 4-6) who are soccer players. They participated in a workshop to think about the future of soccer.
The workshop featured Japan’s national team manager Hajime Moriyasu and former national team player Keita Suzuki. The students were divided into groups of 5–6 to discuss two themes: “How can we become better at soccer?” and “How can we increase the number of people who enjoy soccer?” Each group presented their opinions.
In a talk session with Manager Moriyasu and Suzuki, they were asked about their awareness of “what they do to energize Japanese soccer.” Suzuki commented, “The Japan national team matches get everyone excited, even people who don’t know soccer. Carrying the weight of representing the country brings responsibility and pressure, but I always thought about how we could bring energy to everyone by winning.”
Moriyasu, who once played as a player and is now the head coach of the Japan national team, said, “There is pressure, but all I can do is give my best. That mindset hasn’t changed since I was a player,” adding that fighting until the end, regardless of the outcome, provides energy to the supporters.
When the conversation turned to his success in leading Sanfrecce Hiroshima to the league championship, Moriyasu emphasized, “The players were excellent.” Regarding what was good about them, he said, “They didn’t just listen to the coach’s instructions; they applied what we practiced as a team and made adjustments depending on the opponent, ensuring they could show their best abilities.” He praised the players’ autonomy.
Moriyasu also emphasized that this autonomy is a common element within the current Japan national team. He then shared advice with the children, saying, “While practicing the coach’s instructions and training, always ask yourself ‘why?’ and think, ‘Could I do this better with some creativity?'”
At the end of the talk session, one student asked, “How can I become a member of the Japan national team?” Suzuki replied, “The key is persistence. It’s important to keep going.” Moriyasu agreed and added, “Play as if you’re the best in your position in Japan. Get recognized by others. If you do that, you’ll be selected for the Japan national team.”
To the student who asked the question, Moriyasu said, “The fact that you raised your hand with courage means you will definitely improve.” He encouraged, “Taking on challenges, having the courage to fail, and continuing to challenge yourself will lead to improvement. Keep challenging, and you’ll get closer to the national team. Believe in your potential and keep pushing yourself.”
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