Japan National Team Coach Visits Kumamoto Earthquake Evacuees

Japan national team coach Hajime Moriyasu visited an evacuation center in Kumamoto on Sunday to support residents displaced by an earthquake [1, 2].

The visit highlights the role of sports in community recovery, specifically focusing on the psychological well-being of children who have lost access to their usual athletic activities.

Moriyasu visited the community hall in Hikawa Town, which has been serving as a shelter for local residents [1, 2]. During the visit, the coach spoke with children and adults, offering messages of encouragement to those affected by the disaster [1, 2].

Moriyasu urged those in the region to do everything possible in the current moment, saying, "Do everything you can right now" ^[1].

The disruption to local sports has been significant. Seiji Mitsunaga, general manager of Roasso Kumamoto, described the intensity of the relief efforts at the shelter. Mitsunaga said he has had no time for other activities, noting that he had remained at the community hall until approximately 1 a.m. the previous night ^[1].

Players from Roasso Kumamoto, some of whom are currently on away trips outside the prefecture, have also expressed the difficulty of the situation. One player, speaking anonymously, said the disaster has made them realize that the ability to play soccer is not something to be taken for granted ^[1].

The player called for support to restore the environment necessary for the sport, saying, "I want to regain the environment where we can play soccer as soon as possible. Please lend us your strength" ^[1].

Moriyasu's visit focused on the early return of soccer activities for the youth in the region, a goal aimed at providing stability and normalcy for children living in temporary shelters [1, 2].