Sagan Tosu U-12 Claims Victory In JA Zen-noh Cup Kyushu Tournament

On March 24, 2025, it was announced that Sagan Tosu U-12 from Saga Prefecture emerged victorious in the Kyushu tournament of the JA Zen-noh Cup All Japan Elementary School Selection Soccer Tournament. The competition unfolded over the weekend of March 22-23, 2025, at Ozu Town Sports Forest in Kumamoto Prefecture, featuring participation from 16 teams comprising 264 elementary school students.

Sagan Tosu U-12 triumphed in a thrilling final match against Nagasaki Dream FC Junior, managing a comeback win with a score of 2-1. This victory not only marked a significant achievement for Sagan Tosu but also secured their place in the upcoming national finals, scheduled to be held from May 3 to May 5, 2025, at Nissan Stadium in Kanagawa Prefecture.

The tournament, which received special sponsorship from JA Zen-noh, was characterized by intense competition as the teams vied for the ultimate title of elementary school soccer champions in Japan. On March 22, during the opening ceremony, Junpei Kubota, captain of Solesso Kumamoto U-12, took the stage to deliver the players' oath, stating, “I pledge to practice and strive without forgetting gratitude, and to perform in a way that brings smiles and courage.” The event was highlighted by motivating words from Yoshishi Sawaida, General Manager of the JA Zen-noh Public Relations and Survey Department, who urged players to appreciate their opportunities and show respect to their opponents and teammates.

The first day of the event included a series of friendly matches, with a total of 16 games played, generating excitement and engagement among participants and spectators alike. The closing ceremony saw Sawaida present locally sourced agricultural and livestock products from all eight prefectures within the Kyushu region to the participating teams as a gesture of encouragement.

The final match on March 23 saw Sagan Tosu U-12 face challenges after conceding a goal in the first period. However, they displayed remarkable resilience, clawing back to triumph over Nagasaki Dream FC Junior in extra time, a victory made even more special by the hard-fought effort of the young players.

Sawada expressed, “We support athletes’ success through 'Nippon's food'.” The initiative aims to empower not only athletes at the professional level but also children, ensuring they are well-nourished for their futures.

Sagan Tosu and Nagasaki Dream earned the right to compete among the sixteen strongest teams from across Japan in the national finals. The teams' remarkable journey through the tournament demonstrated their dedication and teamwork, with Sagan Tosu underlining their status as a formidable force in youth soccer.

In addition to the competitive aspect, the tournament showcased the rich culinary heritage of the Kyushu region, with participating players receiving a variety of local produce as part of their commitment to healthy nutrition.

The detailed match records will be available on the official event page, and broadcasts of the final matches can be expected on various platforms, including the official YouTube channel of Nikkan Sports, promising to share the excitement with a wider audience. This initiative reflects an ongoing commitment by JA Zen-noh to leverage sports as a way to promote local produce and inspire the next generation of athletes through wholesome nourishment.

The community rejoiced in the success of its young representatives, as Sagan Tosu U-12 prepares to compete against national counterparts in a bid for the championship title, providing a true testament to the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie that drives these young athletes forward.