[For Elementary School Students in Grades 1–6] FC Tokyo × Borussia Dortmund School Friendly Match Held!
On Friday, July 31, we held the FC Tokyo x Borussia Dortmund School Exchange Match.
This exchange match was held to commemorate the international friendly between FC Tokyo and Borussia Dortmund on Saturday, August 1, providing a valuable opportunity for students from both clubs' schools to deepen their interactions through soccer.
On the day, a total of 112 students participated: 59 FC Tokyo School students and 53 Borussia Dortmund School students, from first through sixth grade. Wearing their clubs' emblems on their chests, they each gave their all on the pitch in fiercely contested matches.
Highlights of the Exchange Matches
Throughout the exchange matches, the children gave their all for every ball and repeatedly showed their determination to play until the final whistle without giving up. Even amid the intense competition, they applauded each other’s good plays, and after the matches, they exchanged handshakes and words with smiles, naturally building connections through soccer.
It was inspiring to see the children transcend differences in language and culture, chase the ball on the same pitch, draw inspiration from one another's play, and grow through friendly competition. They respected each other and shared an irreplaceable time while enjoying encounters with new friends.
Due to lightning toward the end of the event, participant safety was given top priority, and the final match was canceled.
Meet-and-Greet and Autograph Session with Club Legends
Following the friendly matches, a meet-and-greet and autograph session was held with legendary players from both clubs.
The event was initially scheduled to take place on the field, but due to lightning, the venue was moved beneath the covered stands.
Chinma Watanabe joined from FC Tokyo, while Park Joo-ho joined from Borussia Dortmund. They signed autographs and took photos, taking the time to speak warmly with each participant.
The venue was filled with a warm atmosphere throughout, and the children enjoyed a special time full of smiles through their interactions with the legendary players they admire.
The event concluded with a group photo of all participants.
Although not all of the planned programs could be held due to lightning, the children were all smiles, and the players, staff, and legendary players from both clubs actively strengthened their connections with one another, making it a very meaningful day.
Through this exchange match, the children were able to experience not only the joy of soccer, but also the wonderfulness of connecting with teammates across differences in countries and languages.
FC Tokyo will continue to support the growth of children through soccer and futsal, while creating opportunities that lead to many new encounters and learning experiences.
Thank you to everyone who participated!