Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005

National Association of Japan
Japan--America Societies, Inc.
Bridging the Pacific
Since 1978
www.us-japan.org
Japan-America Youth
Baseball Camp
2005
July 12 - 22, 2005
1150 Connecticut Ave., NW
Suite 1050
Washington, DC 20036
Tel: 202-429-5545
Fax: 202-429-0027
Email: [email protected]
National Association of Japan-America Societies, Inc.
全米日米協会連合
Sponsors and Collaborating Organizations
Sponsors and Collaborating Organizations
Program Sponsors
The Freeman Foundation
The Arizona Diamondbacks Training Centers
ANA-All Nippon Airways
The Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters
Major League Baseball Japan
Collaborating Organizations
Baseball-related Organizations
Government
Major League Baseball Japan
The Arizona Diamondbacks Training Centers
The Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters
The Tokyo Yomiuri Giants
The Chiba Lotte Marines
Hokkaido Baseball Association
Hokkaido Senior Little League Baseball Association
Hokkaido Pony League Baseball Association
Hokkaido Sun League Baseball Association
Embassy of U.S., Japan
U.S. Consulate General, Sapporo
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan
Embassy of Japan, U.S.
Hokkaido Prefecture Government
City of Sapporo Municipal Government
Other
Outback Steakhouse
Japan-America Societies
Japan-America Society of Arizona
America-Japan Society of Hokkaido
McDonald’s Company (Japan), Ltd.
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
Acknowledgements
Acknowledgements
T
he National Association of Japan-America Societies would like to first and foremost thank all of the
collaborating organizations whose staff took time out of their extremely busy schedules to coordinate
arrangements, come up with great ideas, and enable us to have a wonderfully successful program!
Jeff Rodin of the Arizona Diamondbacks Training Centers provided immeasurable support for participant
selection in the Phoenix area. He helped with pre-departure workout sessions and various other important
arrangements. Yoshihito Okuyama of the Hokkaido Pony League Baseball Association and the owner of
the Phoenix Sports Center spent countless hours coordinating dozens of events in Hokkaido, while making sure that the program would be a memorable experience for all parties concerned, and that the exchange would last for a long time into the future. We would also like to thank Jim Small of Major League
Baseball Japan for his commitment to this program. Hiroko Kato of Major League Baseball Japan attended to many important details in the Tokyo portion of the program, helping to arrange many once-ina-lifetime events. Yasukatsu Shirai and Shogo Arai of the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters were invaluable in setting up several baseball clinics in Sapporo.
We are also very grateful to the ten host families, who each hosted two American teenagers, for the tremendous care they took with the boys. Hosting two teenagers from a completely different culture required
much energy and commitment! We also extend our appreciation to the Japanese teenage baseball players
and their families who demonstrated extraordinary dedication on many occasions throughout the duration
of the trip. The many volunteer staff members and interpreters furthered effective intercultural communication among the participants. In addition, we appreciate the contributions of the staff members from the
America-Japan Society of Hokkaido.
Last, but not least, we would like to thank our sponsors and donors for their generous contributions to the
program. Funding from the Freeman Foundation made it possible to implement the program as originally
conceived, and All Nippon Airways provided a tremendous amount of support with both international and
domestic transportation. Their dedication to strengthening U.S.-Japan relations generally, and to the program specifically, was vital to the success of the program.
It is impossible to adequately recognize the many people who contributed in so many ways to the success
of the program. We do, however, wish to extend our gratitude to the persons and organizations listed on
the following page.
Chiba Lotte Marines manager, Bobby Valentine gives batting instructions at the Marines’ Stadium in Chiba on July 14, 2005
Japanese and American players warm up
before a joint practice session at Pippu Stadium in Asahikawa on July 17, 2005
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
Collaborating Organizations & Participants
Collaborating Organizations & Participants
Baseball-related Organizations
Government
Major League Baseball Japan
The Arizona Diamondbacks Training Centers
The Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters
Hokkaido Baseball Association
Hokkaido Senior Little League Baseball Association
Hokkaido Pony League Baseball Association
Hokkaido Sun League Baseball Association
Phoenix Sports Center
Embassy of U.S., Japan
U.S. Consulate General, Sapporo
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan
Embassy of Japan, U.S.
Hokkaido Prefecture Government
City of Sapporo Municipal Government
Japan-America Societies
America-Japan Society of Hokkaido
Baseball Players (American)
Baseball Teams (Japanese)
Host Families
Logan Davis
Jack Diamond
Taylor Erwin
Jake MacWilliam
Elijah Philpot
Anthony Reda
Jacob VanRaaphorst
Devon Villarreal
Cory Whigham
Jake Williams
Hongo Middle School
Asahikawa Chuo Baseball Club
Sapporo East Baseball Club
Hokkai Bears
Sapporo Royals
Pippu Middle School
Akinori Shimomura
Takuya Fujii
Tetsuo Tanaka
Kiyonobu Takahashi
Osamu Yokoyama
Shogo Tsuji
Shinya Murata
Takuma Narita
Yusuke Osuga
Yuki Kawahara
Coaches/Chaperons (American)
Brandon Martin
Jeff Rodin
Coaches (Japanese)
Yoshihito Okuyama
Yasukatsu Shirai
Shogo Arai
Shigeru Miki
Kengo Okajima
Kenji Miura
Yo Ohira
Shunichi Teranishi
Shigeru Sato
Hiroki Kitamura
Volunteers
Phoenix Sports Center
Geoff Carr and his family
Sunha Hong
Hokkaido Pony Baseball League
Asahikawa Chuo Baseball Club
Sapporo East Baseball Club
America-Japan Society of Hokkaido
American and Japanese players and coaches
before a baseball clinic in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, on July 17, 2005
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Sponsors & Donors
Acknowledgements
Collaborating Organizations & Participants
Table of Contents
Executive Summary…………………………………………...…….…1
Activity Report
Pre-departure……………………………………………………...2
Tokyo 1………………………………………………………...3
Tokyo 2………………………………………………………...4
Tokyo 3…………………………………………………...……5
Tokyo 4………………………………………………………...6
Asahikawa 1……………….…………………………...…….....7
Asahikawa 2…………………………………………………....8
Asahikawa 3..…………………………………………………..9
Sapporo 1 …………………………………………………….10
Sapporo 2……………………………………………………..11
Sapporo 3……………………………………………………..12
Future Prospects…………………..……………………………..…...13
Program Evaluation Summary………………….….……………….…14
Appendix
I - Program Format Summary………………………………..15
II - Preparation Timeline……………………………………..16
III - Travel Agenda…………………………….……………...17
Jacob VanRaaphorst presents an autograph
board to U.S. Ambassador Schieffer at his
residence in Tokyo on July 15, 2005
Diamondbacks and Fighters coaches after a
clinic at the Fighter’s indoor training facility in
Sapporo on July 21, 2005
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
Executive Summary | 1
Executive Summary
F
ollowing the success of the program in 2004, NAJAS, in cooperation with the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, established a two-week baseball camp tour for
American and Japanese boys aged 13 to 15 to be held in Hokkaido, Japan. The American contingent also
traveled to Tokyo and Chiba to take part in events hosted by the Nippon Professional Baseball teams. The
purpose of the camp was to provide baseball instruction and a cross-cultural experience, and to encourage
young baseball players to learn more about each other and each other’s countries. (See Appendix I for the
Program Format Summary and Appendix III for the Travel Agenda.)
Ten American baseball players along with two coaches were selected from the Phoenix area by the Arizona Diamondbacks. The selection criteria was based not only on the candidates’ baseball skills, but also
on their interest in having a cross-cultural experience. Seven baseball teams, one in Tokyo, two in Asahikawa, and four in Sapporo, participated in various baseball-related activities. In Asahikawa and Sapporo,
Japanese players were chosen not only for their interest in baseball, but also for their families’ willingness
to host the American boys in their respective cities.
NAJAS Associate Director Yusuke Tanno joined the ten American baseball players and two coaches at
the beginning of the program in Phoenix and stayed with the group throughout the program, saying goodbye to them in Tokyo. After a pre-departure workout session and orientation at the Bank One Ballpark on
July 11, the group traveled to Tokyo, Japan.
During their three-day stay in Tokyo, the American players visited the world’s largest fish market, Tsukiji, participated in a baseball clinic hosted by the Chiba Lotte Marines with players from Hongo Middle
School, experienced Sumo wrestling, had lunch with the U.S. Ambassador to Japan at his residence, and
watched a game between the Yomiuri Giants and Yokohama Bay Stars.
The American teenagers stayed in pairs with two sets of families while in Asahikawa and Sapporo. Aside
from some special events such as welcome parties, a pre-game ceremony at the Fighters’ stadium, and
baseball clinics, the boys spent nearly all of their spare time with their host families. The activities for the
American coaches were specially arranged by Yoshihito Okuyama, a board member of the Hokkaido
Pony League Association and the owner of the Phoenix Sports Center. The baseball camp was held everyday with fifteen Japanese teenagers and the coaches from the Fighters and Diamondbacks . There were
three intramural games in the Sapporo Dome Stadium and elsewhere with local teams.
Since this year’s program ended in a great success, NAJAS and the collaborating organizations are exploring the possibility of expanding the program to other cities and teams, while still maintaining the Arizona-Hokkaido connection. San Diego and Yokohama, two sister cities, have expressed interest in hosting
a similar program in the future.
Furthermore, in May 2005 , two of the Diamondbacks Training Centers coaches traveled to Hokkaido and
Korea to hold several baseball clinics arranged by Yoshihito Okuyama. The clinics served as both a continuation from and prelude to the programs in 2004 and 2005.
Funding for the program came from the Freeman Foundation, All Nippon Airways, Major League Baseball Japan, the Arizona Diamondbacks Training Centers, the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters, and the
Phoenix Sports Center.
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
2 | Activity Report - Pre-departure
Pre-departure
Since 2004, the Arizona Diamondbacks Training
Centers have provided immeasurable support for
putting together the program and organizing the
event in Phoenix. NAJAS would like to thank Director of the Training Centers, Jeff Rodin, for his commitment.
Pre-departure Work-out Session
July 11, 2005 at Bank One Ballpark in Phoenix
A
ll participants but one participated in batting
practice in the batting cage at the Stadium
which is normally reserved for MLB players. The
group was fortunate to have Mr. Matt Williams (an
ex-All Star player who once played in Japan at an
opening game) and Mr. Mark Davis to observe and
provide advice. A D-backs camera crew was also
present at the scene to videotape the practice and the
subsequent orientation.
D-backs Coaches to Hokkaido & Korea
May 20-26, 2005 in Asahikawa and Seoul
T
wo coaches from the Diamondbacks Training
Centers traveled to Asahikawa, Hokkaido and
Seoul, Korea to provide baseball clinics to local
teenage players as a continuation of the 2004 program and a prelude to the 2005 program. Jeff Rodin,
Director of the Arizona Diamondbacks Training
Centers, along with an ex-Nippon Professional
Baseball player Yasukatsu Shirai also made a presentation to approximately 200 people on baseball
business strategy .
Pre-departure Orientation
July 11, 2005 at Bank One Ballpark in Phoenix
T
he participants and their parents attended a predeparture orientation meeting in the Board
Room of Bank One Ballpark. NAJAS staff distributed some administrative material, briefed them on
travel procedures, and answered last minute questions. The Diamondbacks gave the participants
baseball caps, t-shirts, batting jerseys and passport/
ticket holders, in addition to other t-shirts, gear
bags, wrist bands and cap clips that were previously
provided by D-backs at a program workout session
held a few weeks earlier. NAJAS also provided program polo shirts to the participants.
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
Activity Report - Tokyo 1 | 3
Tokyo 1
Every activity in Tokyo between July 13 and 15 was
funded and organized by Major League Baseball Japan. NAJAS appreciates the generous contributions
and commitment of Ms. Hiroko Kato, Account Executive of MLB Japan, to this program.
the train system was challenging for them, but they
seem to enjoy the process. Participants had one hour
of free time in the area before dinner.
The American boys’ first meal in Japan was at a
Yakitori restaurant where they were served food they
had never seen before, including Aji-no-Ikezukuri,
live fish sashimi. Most of them were anxious to practice using chopsticks in order to prepare for their
home stays with host families in Hokkaido.
Tsukiji Fish Market & Breakfast
Travel from Phoenix to Tokyo
July 12-13, 2005 in Phoenix & Tokyo
O
n July 12, participants met at the Phoenix International Airport for check-in. The group was
picked up by Ms. Hiroko Kato of MLB Japan at Narita Airport and shuttled to a hotel in Iidabashi on
July 13. The drive from Narita to Tokyo certainly
was an experience for the players who had previously only known wide-open spaces with few buildings at all. The foggy and rainy weather was a little
disappointing to the organizers, but not at all to the
group from Phoenix where annual precipitation is
minimal.
July 14, 2005 in Tsukiji, Tokyo
T
he group left the hotel early in the morning to
see a tuna auction at the market. While touring
with a group through the market is always a challenge, the participants enjoyed fish of all sizes and
kinds, as well as the special atmosphere which can’t
be found anywhere else in Tokyo. The group had a
Donmono breakfast (sashimi, pork, chicken, and
eggs on rice) at the market where the fish market
workers eat.
Imperial Palace
July 14, 2005 in Chiyoda, Tokyo
Akihabara Electric Town
July 13, 2005 in Akihabara, Tokyo
T
he group took a JR train to Akihabara (only two
stops away from the hotel) to experience their
first taste of Tokyo. Going through the crowd and
P
articipants made a brief stop at the Imperial Palace to see the gardens, the moat, and the remains
of the Edo castle where the royal family currently
resides.
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
4 | Activity Report - Tokyo 2
Tokyo 2
Chiba Lotte Marines Baseball Clinic
July 14, 2005 in Makuhari, Chiba
entine gave detailed instructions and advice to the
players as they practiced catching, infielding and
batting. The batting practice was conducted by five
of the Marines’ batting pitchers and catchers to allow the boys to experience true professional baseball. A TBS media crew was on site to record the
event.
B
efore going to the Marines’ Ballpark in Chiba,
the group met with their counterparts (15 players and their head coach) from the Hongo Middle
School baseball team. On the way to the ballpark,
the Japanese and American kids introduced their
partners (instead of introducing themselves, they
introduced the person who was sitting next to them).
The players also watched the history of U.S.-Japan
baseball on videos until they arrived at the ballpark.
After a lunch provided by McDonald’s Japan, Mr.
Valentine held a Q&A session, answering questions
about Japan, baseball, and life. At the end of the
session, the participants presented a framed autograph board provided by the Diamondbacks to Mr.
Valentine.
MLB Japan also provided sunflower seeds so that
the American boys could show their Japanese counterparts how to chew on them, a very uncommon
practice in Japan!
After arriving in Chiba, the participants were met by
the Marines’ General Manager Bobby Valentine
who generously gave four hours of his time to work
with the participants and provide coaching advice.
The Japanese and American kids worked together
on routines, while Mr. Valentine and coaches from
the Diamondbacks and Hongo Middle School discussed the remainder of the clinic agenda. Mr. Val-
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
Activity Report - Tokyo 3 | 5
Tokyo 3
(cont.) At the end of their stay at the ballpark, the
boys had a chance to observe the Marines’ batting
practice and to ask for autographs on t-shirts and
baseballs provided by MLB Japan and the Marines
respectively.
The support that MLB Japan and the Marines provided for this event was unmatched in every way.
Not only was Mr. Valentine available, but the Marine’s batting pitchers and a full scale logistics staff
was on hand to prepare the ball field, move equipment as the session progressed, and clean up afterwards. The whole event certainly was a once in a
lifetime experience for everyone involved.
On the way back from the ballpark, the American
players presented an autograph board and a D-backs
helmet to their Japanese friends.
Dinner at the Outback Steakhouse
July 14, 2005 in Shinagawa, Tokyo
P
articipants enjoyed dinner arranged by MLB
Japan and provided by the Outback Steakhouse
in Shinagawa. Along with the lunch previously provided by MacDonald’s Japan, they were happy not
to have to ask too many questions about what was
on the menu! The group then took a JR train back
to the hotel.
Sumo Club - Saitama Sakae High School
July 15, 2005 in Sakae-shi, Saitama
T
he boys picked up breakfast at a convenience
store before heading to the Saitama Sakae
Sumo Club. The Club is one of the most prestigious
in all of Japan and several national champions in
various ranks were in the group. Although the
American boys were quite shy about getting undressed and wearing Mawashi, (or “diapers” as the
boys called them), once a few of them volunteered
with help from some Sumo wrestlers, everyone else
got comfortable with the idea.
Sumo is a sport that requires the most traditional
forms of discipline. The boys were constantly told
what to do, when and where. Once the excitement
of wearing Mawashi wore off, the American boys
observed some routine warm-ups and fundamental
movements, and joined the Japanese wrestlers for
practice. Everyone experienced a mock wrestling
match with a Japanese wrestler, and each participant
learned that sumo is a serious sport that involves
skill, and both physical and mental strength.
The head coach of the club was generous enough to
present the Mawashi that the American boys wore,
along with the high school’s original t-shirts, hats
and Japanese fans. The American boys also gave an
autograph board to the Sumo wrestlers.
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
6 | Activity Report - Tokyo 4
Tokyo 4
Lunch with U.S. Amb. Schieffer
July 15, 2005 at U.S .Ambassador’s Residence in Tokyo
T
he American players met up with the Japanese
players from Hongo Middle School with whom
they previously practiced prior to visiting the Ambassador at his residence. Once ushered into the
residence, the American and Japanese boys were
met by the Ambassador at the reception room where
the Showa Emperor and General Macarthur had
met. After making a brief greeting and introduction,
Ambassador Schieffer graciously answered questions from the boys.
serve pre-game batting practice and to meet some
players (Tuffy Rhodes and Brian Sikorski) who patiently gave autographs. The group was also taken
to the bullpen where pitchers warm up before and
during the game.
Yomiuri Giants vs. Yokohama Bay Stars
July 15, 2005 at Tokyo Dome Stadium
T
A former owner of the Texas Rangers, Ambassador
Schieffer was both knowledgeable and insightful
about every aspect of baseball, which prompted
conversations with the boys and the coaches. He
was so considerate that he not only spent two hours
with the group, he also offered to take a picture with
each participant (approximately 30 of them) at the
end of the lunch.
Tokyo Dome Stadium Tour
July 15, 2005 at Tokyo Dome Stadium
A
fter the Japanese players parted, the American
boys received a back stage tour at the Tokyo
Dome Stadium, arranged by MLB Japan. Not only
was it the first air-pressured dome structure most
boys had ever visited, but they were also able to ob-
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
he participants had a wonderful time at their
first Japanese baseball game. They were interested not only in the style of baseball, but also in the
way the crowd cheered on their favorite teams. Although the Giants lost the game, the boys were
quick to learn the Japanese way of cheering and left
the Dome happy with their new cheering paraphernalia.
Activity Report - Asahikawa 1 | 7
Asahikawa 1
Meeting with the Asahikawa Chuo Baseball Club
July 16, 2005 in Sapporo & Asahikawa
and his supporters after he participated in the Baseball Camp 2004 program. The Center is equipped
with professional grade work-out machines, pitching and batting cages and dormitories for players
and alumni, as well as local players. The facilities
are free of charge. The Center was named in honor
of the program and has the Diamondbacks Training
Centers and Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters logos
on the wall by the entrance.
A
fter arriving at Chitose Airport, the American
boys received a warm welcome (some described it as overwhelming) from the Japanese ball
players of Asahikawa Chuo Baseball Club with banners, name signs, and cheering. Several players in
each group had participated in the program in 2004,
either as a player or a host family. The Japanese
boys quickly picked up the American boys’ luggage
and carried it to the club’s bus. The Japanese boys
were well-disciplined and outgoing, exchanging introductions on the bus and immediately becoming
fast friends with their American counterparts.
The parents of the Asahikawa Chuo Baseball Club
prepared a Japanese style barbecue for the boys at
the Center. After brief welcome remarks, introductions and lunch, the boys and coaches played Suikawari, a typical summer time game in Japan. The
coaches from the Diamondbacks Training Centers
presented Mr. Okuymama a D-backs uniform with
his name and number 5 on the back for his contributions not only to this program, but also to a separate
program that involved Hokkaido and Korea the previous May. A local American who assisted with the
program in May came with his family to help interpret.
Welcome at The Phoenix Sports Center
July 16, 2005 at Phoenix Sports Center in Asahikawa
T
he Phoenix Sports Center is a facility that was
founded and built by Mr. Yoshihito Okuyama
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Asahikawa 2
Koko Yakyu Regional Championship
July 16, 2005 at the Starffin Stadium in Asahikawa
A
fter lunch at the Center, the Japanese and
American boys watched a regional preliminary
game for the Japan national high school championship. One of the competing teams, Ryukoku High
School, had two players who participated in the
2004 program as starting members. The American
boys and coaches were impressed with the level of
baseball, as well as the level of interests that the
general public has in high school baseball in Japan.
boys got a taste of a completely different style of
baseball. Reporters from Hokkaido Shinbum came
to report on the activities and stayed until the end of
the day. The article appeared in the July 17 morning
paper both on the front page and on page 12.
Baseball Practice with Asahikawa Chuo
Baseball Club and Pippu Middle School
July 17, 2005 at Pippu Stadium in Asahikawa
Djingis Khan Lunch
July 17, 2005 at Pippu Stadium in Asahikawa
T
he Pippu Middle School Baseball Team and
their parents prepared Djingis Khan barbecue
for the American boys and coaches for lunch while
the Asahikawa Chuo players cleaned the field to get
ready for a game in the afternoon.
A
sahikawa Chuo and Pippu Middle School held
a joint practice session with the American boys and
the D-backs coaches. Players from both countries
did some routine warm-up exercises. One of the differences in Japanese and American baseball is that
the Japanese are constantly cheering and shouting
during every exercise. While taken aback at the beginning, the American boys soon learned some basic vocabulary and phrases to use during the sessions. The Diamondbacks coaches gave the Japanese players advice on pitching, catching, and batting. Since Pippu Middle School uses predominantly soft balls for this age group, the American
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
Activity Report - Asahikawa 3 | 9
Asahikawa 3
Intramural Game with Asahikawa Chuo
July 17, 2005 at Pippu Stadium in Asahikawa
player were given the opportunity to present Tamamushi at the altar to pray for the prosperity of the
facility as well as the safety of the trainees.
Welcome Reception/The Phoenix Sports
Center Grand Opening Party
July 17, 2005 at Asahikawa Grand Hotel in Asahikawa
A
I
n the afternoon, an intramural game was played
with Asahikawa Chuo Baseball Club. Divided
into two teams, the American and Japanese players
collaborated very well on the field. The D-backs
coaches also participated as head coaches for each
team. The Pippu Baseball Field provided full staff
support for the game (scoreboard, announcements,
etc.) to make the game more enjoyable for the players.
Grand Opening of the Phoenix Sports
Center
July 17, 2005 at Phoenix Sports Center in Asahikawa
welcome reception was held in conjunction
with the Phoenix Sports Center’s grand opening party at the Asahikawa Grand Hotel. The whole
event was carefully choreographed and the American participants received the warmest possible welcome. The show was kicked off by each American
boy running between lines of their Japanese counterparts, who were cheering and giving high-fives
(similar to the festivities at professional basketball
games when the players enter the court) while his
picture was projected on a massive screen on the
stage and loud music played. Over 150 people were
in the ballroom. D-backs coaches and NAJAS staff
were presented with appreciation awards for bridging the cultures of Hokkaido and Arizona through
baseball. In addition to all the gifts the American
boys received on stage, the two hours were full of
activities which honored those who contributed to
the foundation of the Phoenix Sports Center. It was
a night not only with excellent food, but also an
event that demonstrated the generosity of the people
of Asahikawa and really touched the heart of the
American group.
M
r. Okuyama held the grand opening of the
Phoenix Sports Center while the group was
in Asahikawa. Conducted by Kannushi in Shinto
Style, the two D-backs coaches and an American
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10 | Activity Report - Sapporo 1
Sapporo 1
Farewell at the Phoenix Sports Center
July 18, 2005 at the Phoenix Sports Center in Asahikawa
T
he host families and other players in the Asahikawa Baseball Club got together at the Phoenix
Sports Center to hold a brief farewell session. The
Diamondbacks coaches gave speeches and answered questions. The host parents prepared
McDonald’s meals for everyone to eat on the bus on
the way to Sapporo. Every host family in Asahikawa traveled to Sapporo to accompany the boys, as
well as to debrief the second host families in Sapporo about what the American boys liked to do and
eat, in order to make sure that there would be a
smooth transition for the participants.
Practice with Local Sapporo Teams
July 18, 2005 at Tsu Dome Stadium in Sapporo
A
fter arriving in Sapporo, the American players
were met by six local hard ball teams at Tsu
Dome Stadium. The organizer prepared several fun
activities, such as base running, strike-out and speed
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
ball, and the winners in each game received a bat.
The second host families in Sapporo watched the
practice and picked up their guests after the practice
sessions were over.
Welcome Reception at Sapporo Kaikan
July 18, 2005 at Sapporo Kaikan in Sapporo
A
welcome reception was held at Sapporo Kaikan with the Japanese and American players,
their teammates, host families, and collaborating
organizations, including the Hokkaido Baseball
Federation, three Hokkaido Hardball Leagues, six
local baseball teams, the Hokkaido America-Japan
Societies, the U.S. Consulate General Sapporo, the
Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters and many others.
Among the approximately 200 attendees was the
Sapporo Branch Manager of ANA All Nippon Airways, a major contributor to the program.
Activity Report - Sapporo2 | 11
Sapporo 2
Intramural Game at the Dome Stadium
July 19, 2005 at Sapporo Dome Stadium in Sapporo
T
he Fighters and the Sapporo Dome Stadium
provided full field support for an intramural
game between teams of the Japanese and American
players at the Dome. After warming up, two teams
lead by D-backs head coaches competed on the field
in a real NPB setting. After the game, the American
boys spent the rest of afternoon with their host families.
who prepare the field, enable them to concentrate on
the game, and provide a stage where they can not
only play ball, but also learn about life through
baseball.
Pre-game Ceremony
July 19, 2005 at Sapporo Dome Stadium in Sapporo
Sapporo Dome Stadium Tour and BP
July 19, 2005 at Sapporo Dome Stadium in Sapporo
T
he Fighters provided a tour of the Dome Stadium for the American boys and their host
brothers. They observed batting practice and pitching of the Fighters and Marines on the field. Mr.
Bobby Valentine and some of the Chiba Lotte Marines players who hosted the group for a clinic in
Chiba on July 15 came to greet the American boys.
The Fighters made arrangements for the American
boys to run out to each position with a Fighters
player at the start of the game. Although the boys
were nervous about going on the field in front of
over 20,000 people, they were extremely excited
when they returned to the dugout. All the boys knew
Shinjo, and two boys went out to center field with
him. Cory Whigham threw out the first pitch while
the participants were still on the field, and everyone
got autographs from the players at their positions.
The Japanese and American boys, along with their
host families, watched a game between Hokkaido
and Chiba after the ceremony. Hokkaido lost the
game 4-3.
Meeting with the Fighters’ Players
July 19, 2005 at Sapporo Dome Stadium in Sapporo
The group was met by two players and a batting
coach in the dugout. They gave speeches and answered questions about the differences between
Japanese and American baseball. One of the points
they made was about the attitudes of the players on
the field. Japanese players, including professionals,
bow as they enter and leave the field to thank those
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12 | Activity Report - Sapporo 3
Sapporo 3
Free Day with Host Families
July 20, 2005 in Sapporo
u
ntil the Fighters’ clinic at 4:30, the participants had free time with their host families. At
least four American boys attended classes at their
host brothers’ schools. They played basketball in a
PE class, experienced calligraphy and English
classes, had kyushoku (a school lunch), and cleaned
the classrooms after school with the Japanese students.
clinic focused on the basics of base running, throwing, and batting. In batting practice, Mr. Shirai (an
Ex-NPB All-Star pitcher) pitched to all of the participants to let them experience the feel of professional baseball. All the host families attended the
practice and watched the participants practice. The
D-backs coaches supported the clinic from the side
line, but lead the clinic on the following day.
Meeting with Deputy Mayor of Asahikawa
July 20, 2005 at Mayor’s Office in Asahikawa
D
-backs coaches, NAJAS staff and Mr. Okuyama visited the Deputy Mayor of Asahikawa,
Mr. Masami Yamagami. Mr. Yamagami made
many positive remarks about the program, and offered his office’s support for the activities. NAJAS
staff explained the potential of the program and its
long term strategy in hopes of continuing the discussion into the future. Mr. Yamagami was positive
about providing public facilities, including baseball
stadiums, for the program. NAJAS hopes to continue the discussion into the future.
Fighters’ Baseball Clinic
July 20-21, 2005 at Fighter’s Indoor Facility in Sapporo
E
x-Fighters Mr. Shirai and Mr. Arai held a baseball clinic with the Japanese and American
boys at a Fighters’ indoor practice facility. The
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
The D-backs coaches lead the clinic on the following day, and the participants practiced catching,
fielding and batting. Unlike the previous clinic lead
by the Fighters, the D-backs coaches did not need
much verbal interpretation to communicate their
instructions. At the end of the clinic, the Fighters
coaches handed certificates of completion to the
participants.
Future Prospects | 13
Future
Incident
Prospects
Report
T
he Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005 program ended successfully because of the enormous
commitment made by numerous organizations and individuals. Along with all the positive feedback
from participants and host families, there is a strong incentive among collaborating organizations in Arizona and Hokkaido for continuing this program into the future. Moreover, NAJAS has begun consulting
with organizations in other cities, such as San Diego and Yokohama, both of which have professional
baseball teams and Japan-America Societies, and the two municipalities have had a long-standing sister
city relationship since 1957.
The direct involvement of professional baseball teams makes this program unique. This involvement was
even more unique this year as because Major League Baseball Japan contributed to the program for youth
for the first time in its history. Being able to work with “cool” and “dynamic” MLB/NLB teams provides
teenage players an exciting chance to dream, aspire and grow. As such, the potential for the program to
expand to other states and prefectures largely depends on how much commitment MLB/NPB (Nippon
Professional Baseball) is willing to make. Support from various other local organizations is equally important.
After the second year of the program, both the Diamondbacks and the Fighters seem to have established
confidence in the program, not only within their respective organizations, but also with each other. NAJAS feels that the initiatives provided by the two organizations will be able to keep the program going for
a long time without as much involvement by NAJAS, given certain elements are established. The Diamondbacks, the Fighters, and NAJAS will continue discussions in order to insure that the program will
continue to evolve and stay beneficial to all concerned parties.
In the meantime, NAJAS has started discussing the possibility of extending the program to San Diego and
Yokohama. In July 2005, NAJAS staff met with the Yokohama City government, the Yokohama Bay
Stars, the America-Japan Society of Yokohama, and several other local organizations. While the program
will be required to make many adjustments according to the locality, NAJAS is hopeful that the main format can be replicated.
Conversation on the potential program in Washington, D.C. is still less concrete at this point. NAJAS has
been primarily talking to the Japan-America Society of Washington, D.C., and will be making a proposal
to the Washington Nationals once their counterpart in Japan is identified.
The generous support of sponsors will be critical for the implementation and continuation of the program.
NAJAS appreciates the contributions of the existing sponsors, and will continue to seek other funding
sources.
This baseball camp exchange program has once again proven itself to be a effective, fun and natural way
to foster understanding and respect across cultures. The hope is that the bridge these young aspiring baseball players establish on the diamond will carry over into the bilateral relationship of the two countries for
years to come.
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14 | Program Evaluation Summary
Program Evaluation Summary
N
AJAS considers program evaluation and areas for improvement from 2004 as an integral part of the
program. In general, the areas for improvement from 2004 were reflected in this year’s program,
and received as positive feedback from 2005 participants.
Areas for Improvement from 2004
• Duration of Trip - It was suggested that the program period was too long in 2004, and therefore it
was shortened to 11 days from 16 days (including travel time). It was also recommended that the
stay with host families should be at the end rather than in the beginning, and NAJAS made the
change. Both of the modifications resulted in a better quality of overall program.
• Number of Participants - The number of traveling players was reduced from 18 to 10 (3 to 2 for
coaches). This is probably a maximum number that one chaperone can comfortably handle, given
that there are two coaches for extra support.
• Participant Selection - This is an area that still requires serious consideration. Although the selection of the American players this year was appropriate, it was not an open solicitation. If some of
the program elements, such as participation fee, are to be modified, there should be a much more
sophisticated selection process.
• Other - Several other items were listed as areas for improvement in 2004. Those included fundraising, program staff, JAS/AJS, host families, participation fees, and collaborating organizations.
2005 Program Evaluation
Given the nature of the program, NAJAS divided the program evaluation into two parts, administrativeevaluation and participant evaluation. The former was mostly collected in consultation between NAJAS
staff and collaborating organizations, and was summarized in the Executive Summary (p.1), Incident Report (p.13), and Areas for Improvement (p.16). The latter was collected using three types of questionnaire
forms submitted by program participants (American players and coaches), American parents, and collaborating organizations and Japanese host families.
Evaluation of NAJAS Administration of the Program (27 total respondents)
Nine questions regarding NAJAS’ handling of the program administration were asked of the Japanese
players, their parents, coaches, and collaborating organizations. Those questions include effectiveness of
NAJAS staff, communicative responsiveness, sincerity and enthusiasm of NAJAS staff, reliability of information provided, and quality of program materials. On average, in a scale of 1 to 5 (1=poor and
5=excellent), 90.95% marked above 4 (excellent or good), and 9.05% gave 3 (average) scores. In general, collaborating organizations, American players, their parents and coaches gave higher scores than
Japanese host families, which could be the result of the NAJAS’ lack of direct communication with the
local host families in Hokkaido.
Evaluation of Program (12 total respondents)
The most popular activities and experiences in Hokkaido were the welcome party in Asahikawa, the home
stays and the baseball games. In Tokyo and Chiba, the Marines’ baseball clinic and Sumo were listed as
most enjoyable. All of the respondents answered that they would participate in the program again if given
a chance, and would recommend the program to their friends.
Overall, the program was well received by most participants and collaborating organizations. While
cross-cultural interactions, such as home stays, can be great experiences, they can also be extremely
stressful on both sides when something doesn’t work out well. In this regard, the program was very fortunate to have enthusiastic and committed individuals and organizations, all simultaneously on board.
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
Appendix I - Program Format Summary | 15
I - Program Format Summary
Program Title: Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
Program Launch Date: August, 2005
Program Timeframe: July 12 - 22, 2005
Location: Phoenix, Tokyo, Asahikawa & Sapporo
Participant: 10 American boys 13 to 15 years old from Phoenix area
Approx. 100 Japanese boys 13 to 15 years old from Tokyo & Hokkaido
2 Diamondbacks Training Centers coaches
10 Japanese coaches from Tokyo, Hokkaido & the Nippon-Ham Fighters
10 host families in Asahikawa & Sapporo
Collaborating Organizations: 15
Participation Fee: Free, except for souvenirs, snacks, etc.
Insurance: Travel Insured International, Inc.
Sponsors: The Freeman Foundation, ANA-All Nippon Airways, Major League Baseball Japan, the Arizona Diamondbacks Training Centers, the Hokkaido
Nippon Ham Fighters, Phoenix Sports Center, Outback Steakhouse Japan
& McDonald’s Company (Japan), Ltd.
Contact: National Association of Japan-America Societies, Inc.
Email: [email protected]
American and Japanese ballplayers try Suikawari at the Phoenix Sports Center in Asahikawa on July 16, 2005
American boys on a busy subway on the way
to Akihabara in Tokyo on July 13, 2005
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16 | Appendix II - Preparation Timeline
II - Preparation Timeline
August, 2004
2004 participants left Seattle and returned to Hokkaido.
September, 2004
NAJAS issued the 2004 program report, and began evaluating the 2004 program with the collaborating organizations.
October, 2004
NAJAS and the collaborating organizations decided that the local organizer in Hokkaido would
be the Hokkaido Pony League Baseball, and started to work on the 2005 program to invite
American ball players from Arizona.
November, 2004
A major program donor, the Freeman Foundation, inquired about the future of the program.
NAJAS submitted a proposal for 2005 the following month.
February, 2005
The Hokkaido Pony League Baseball and NAJAS staff traveled to Phoenix to discuss the 2005
program with the Diamondbacks Training Centers.
February-May, 2005
Coordinated participant selection process, baseball camp agenda, and travel itinerary with the
Hokkaido Pony League Baseball, the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters and the Arizona Diamondbacks.
March, 2005
Major League Baseball Japan agreed to provide maximum support for the Tokyo leg of the
program. MLB Japan started arranging the agenda with various organizations, including the
Chiba Lotte Marines, Tokyo Yomiuri Giants, Hongo Middle School, Saitama Sakae Sumo
Club, and the U.S. Embassy, Tokyo.
March-April, 2005
The Freeman Foundation and All-Nippon Airways provided their contributions to the program.
May, 2005
NAJAS staff visited Tokyo and Hokkaido to coordinate local activities in the respective prefectures.
Late May, 2005
Participant selection was finalized, and registration forms and participant information forms
were completed by the participants. All the necessary arrangements in Phoenix, Tokyo and
Sapporo were more or less completed.
Mid. June, 2005
NAJAS staff visited Phoenix for an orientation session with the participants, their parents, and
other concerned parties. The Diamondbacks Training Centers provided facilities, as well as a
workout session.
July 11, 2005
The Diamondbacks Training Centers hosted a pre-departure baseball camp for the participants
and coaches at the Bank One Ballpark . NAJAS staff also held a pre-departure orientation session with the participants and their parents.
July 12, 2005
The participants left Phoenix for Tokyo for the baseball camp. NAJAS staff accompanied the
group from Phoenix through the entire duration of the trip.
July 22, 2005
The group left Sapporo and returned to Phoenix.
American boys cheer the Yomiuri Giants at Tokyo Dome Stadium in Tokyo on July 15, 2005
Japan-America Youth Baseball Camp 2005
American boys take on the high school national
sumo champion at Saitama Sakae High School in
Saitama on July 15, 2005
Appendix III - Travel Agenda | 17
III - Travel Agenda
06/11 (Sat)
PM
Program orientation at Bank One Ballpark
6/27 (Mon)
PM
First Group Workout at Bank One Ballpark
07/11 (Mon)
PM
Pre-departure Workout & Orientation at Bank One Ballpark
07/12 (Tue)
AM
Depart for Japan via San Francisco
07/13 (Wed)
PM
Arrive at Narita and Stay in Tokyo
07/14 (Thu)
AM
PM
Tsukiji Fish Market Tour
Visit Hongo Middle School Baseball Team
Clinic with Chiba Lotte Marines at Marines’ Stadium
Meet with Lotte Marines Players
07/15 (Fri)
AM
PM
Sumo Club Tour
Lunch with U.S. Ambassador Schieffer at the Ambassador’s
Residence in Tokyo
Yomiuri Giants Tokyo Dome Tour
Game at Tokyo Dome Stadium (Tokyo vs. Yokohama)
07/16 (Sat)
AM
Depart for and Arrive in Sapporo
Depart for Asahikawa and Meet with Host Families
Welcome Lunch at the Phoenix Sports Center
Free with Host Families
PM
07/17 (Sun)
AM
PM
Baseball Clinic at Pippu City Stadium
Baseball Game with Asahikawa Chuo Baseball Club
Opening Ceremony of the Phoenix Training Center
Welcome Reception at Asahikawa Grand Hotel
07/18 (Mon)
AM
PM
Free with Host Families
Depart for Sapporo and Clinic at Sapporo Tsu Dome Stadium
Reunion Party at Sapporo Kaikan
07/19 (Tue)
AM
PM
Intramural Game at Sapporo Dome Stadium
Fighters’ Dome Stadium Tour
Pre-game Ceremony at Sapporo Dome Stadium
Fighters Home Game (Hokkaido vs. Chiba)
07/20 (Wed)
AM
PM
Sightseeing in Sapporo City
Fighters Baseball Clinic at Fighters’ Indoor Facility
07/21 (Thu)
AM
PM
Sightseeing in Sapporo City
Fighters Baseball Clinic at Fighters’ Indoor Facility
07/22 (Fri)
AM
PM
Depart for the U.S. via Tokyo
Arrive in Phoenix
Phoenix
Chiba
Tokyo
Hokkaido
Phoenix
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NAJAS
National Association of Japan-America Societies, Inc.
1150 Connecticut Avenue, NW
Suite 1050
Washington, DC 20036
Tel: (202) 429-5545
Fax: (202) 429-0027
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.us-japan.org