Current conditions in affected areas

Currently, the reconstruction in the affected areas is only half-way through. Especially, for those who lived in the coastal areas whom lost the foundation of their lives, such as houses, work, and even the families living together, the suffering they are going through is immeasurable. From a football environmental aspect, the teams located in these areas are still facing difficulties of ensuring pitches and means of transportation. From this year, Japan Football Association has started to support financially for U-12 teams especially in serious circumstances.

Reconstruction support activity in 2012

These tough phases have been continuing, we would like to send out a message throughout the competition to encourage especially these children playing football in affected areas; “We will never forget our friends that love football and train hard for approaching their dreams without giving up in suffering situation, and will keep supporting them for the many years to come.” Even with many supports from many people around the world, the path they are walking ahead may still not be straight and easy, and it takes much courage to walk through. Yet, there are many children who are playing football with love and not giving up achieving their dreams of football. With these hopes and thoughts in our hearts, we would like to raise a slogan; “OUR HEARTS ARE WITH YOU”.

In conclusion

In 2011, when FIFA President, Joseph S. Blatter visited Miyagi prefecture, he stated directly to children that they were the future for this country. We believe that the energetic children’s smiles with dreams and hopes through sports have such positive power to give great strengths to people of those are trying to rebuild their lives back in affected areas. We believe football has that special power. We would like to show great respect to coaches and parents who support children daily and promise to continue supporting football family as much as we can.