The Tximist Foundation, in collaboration with Oialic Football, embarked on a second tour of Japan in July 2023. The 15-day tour included visits to nine cities in the Asian country, including Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Kyoto.
Aintzane Encinas, former international football player and ambassador of the Tximist Foundation, led football training sessions for Japanese girls and boys. Encinas, who had previously visited Japan for a similar initiative, expressed great enthusiasm for the opportunity to share her knowledge and experiences with young Japanese footballers.
“It has been an incredible experience; I have learned a lot about the culture and football in Japan,” said Encinas. “Japanese boys and girls are passionate about football and very receptive to learning new things. They are talented with the ball at their feet. I have enjoyed teaching and learning from them.”
In addition to the training sessions, Encinas also participated in a series of interviews with Japanese television. In these interviews, Encinas spoke about football, the development of football worldwide and in Japan, and the importance of grassroots training.
“Football is a sport that can change lives,” Encinas stated. “That’s why it’s important for boys and girls to have the opportunity to play and learn about it.”
The Tximist Foundation’s tour of Japan was a resounding success. Aintzane was able to share her passion for football with thousands of Japanese boys and girls, contributing to the development of women’s football in the Asian country. The Tximist Foundation continues to prioritize grassroots training as the key to a better football future.
