Sports strengthens community cohesion and nurture Vietnam-Japan friendship

Alongside vibrant competition, the tournament provided an opportunity for expatriates to connect and interact with local residents, spreading a positive image of the Vietnamese community in Japan.

The event, organized by the Vietnam-Japan International Exchange Organization (FAVIJA), received endorsement from the Vietnamese Embassy in Japan and the Shizuoka Prefectural Government. It drew 16 amateur teams, selected from nearly 30 registrants, representing Vietnamese studying, working, and living across the Chubu region.

FAVIJA Chairman Do Quang Ba stated that the tournament aims to create a healthy and rewarding playground for expatriates, particularly young people living away from home. It serves as an occasion for Vietnamese youth to pursue their passion for football, improve physical health, and strengthen solidarity and mutual support in daily life.

According to Ba, FAVIJA hopes that through community activities such as football, Vietnamese in Japan can access a positive engagement environment, steer clear of social vices, and build a civilized, responsible community. The tournament also seeks to project a good image of Vietnamese people, contributing to deepening friendship between the two peoples.

Doan Son Tung, Head of the Organizing Committee, noted that this is one of the most anticipated events of the year for the Chubu Vietnamese community, with participating teams making thorough preparations in terms of personnel and tactics. Notably, the four best-performing teams will secure berths in the Vietnam National Championship Cup in Japan, scheduled for November 22.

Sharing with the media i, Yamada Noriko, a 68-year-old Japanese supporter, remarked that the area has not seen such a large gathering of youth engaging enthusiastically in sports training and exchange in a long time. She expressed appreciation for Vietnamese youth choosing her hometown to live and work, wishing them a joyful and harmonious life alongside local residents.

Yamada's remarks underscored the tournament's reach beyond the pitch. Through sports activities, Vietnamese have additional opportunities to interact with locals, fostering closeness and mutual understanding. The presence of Japanese players and supporters further transformed the tournament into a shared space for exchange between the two communities.

From riverside training sessions to the festival on the turf, community football tournaments offer expatriates a chance to find friends, share experiences, and forge closer ties with the community. The participation and cheering of local residents help expand these connections, creating a harmonious living environment and strengthening bilateral ties.

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