Viewpoint School in Calabasas, California, will welcome a group of Japanese student-athletes from Ritsumeikan Uji High School in Kyoto this summer as part of a unique exchange initiative.
From August 10-22, the Japanese youngsters will attend U.S. Culture classes at Viewpoint School to help improve their English language skills and will spend time on the practice field to increase their knowledge of the sport they call American football.
The visit marks the eighth time the progressive Japanese high school has partnered with Texas-based organizer Global Football to bring its students to the United States, but the first time Viewpoint School has hosted the initiative.
“We are very excited to work with the Ritsumeikan Uji High School football team,” said Viewpoint School head football coach and director of football operations Chris Adamson. “Rarely do cultural opportunities like this land on your doorstep. Our players, coaches and families are thrilled for the opportunity. The game of football will serve as a powerful bridge between the student-athletes, and will make this an unforgettable experience for our team, and hopefully, theirs as well.”
The visit also offers a new and exciting experience for local families in the greater Los Angeles area, who will serve as hosts for the Japanese visitors, welcoming them into their homes and helping them explore the region during their stay.
Ritsumeikan Uji High School visit highlights
August 10 Host families meet Japanese students at Viewpoint School
August 11 Daily U.S. Culture classes and football practices begin
August 13 Attend Los Angeles Rams home game vs. Dallas Cowboys
August 14 A day at the beach with host families
August 15 Daily U.S. Culture classes and football practices resume
August 18 Scrimmages
August 19 A day at Disneyland
August 20 Practice, scrimmage and campus tour at UCLA
August 21 Farewell party with host families
“Ritsumeikan Uji High School provides an environment where students can develop through experiences inside Japan and around the world and we are delighted to play our part in that development,” said Global Football President Patrick Steenberge. “The entire Viewpoint School community will have a unique opportunity to expand their own world view and make new friendships as they interact with our Japanese visitors.”
The annual visit was previously hosted by Torrey Pines High School near San Diego and its head coach Ed Burke, having been conceived by top Japanese American football coach Shinzo Yamada, a former player in NFL Europe and the Arena League and Ritsumeikan Uji coach Kei Higashimae.