FC Imabari is set to host a “LOVE SOCCER!! LOVE SAIJO!! ~FC Imabari Soccer Classroom~” event on March 29, 2026, offering young soccer enthusiasts a chance to hone their skills alongside a visiting toy museum experience. The event, designed for children of various ages and skill levels, aims to foster a love for the sport and provide a fun, engaging learning environment. This initiative underscores FC Imabari’s commitment to community engagement and youth development through soccer.
The soccer classroom will be held at the Rexam Saijo Factory Ground (210-1 Fukubuko, Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture) and is open to children attending kindergartens and schools in Saijo City, Niihama City, and Shikokuchuo City. The event is divided into two parts to accommodate different age groups: a session for middle and older children, and another for elementary school students in the 1st to 3rd grade. Participation is free, but advance application is required, with a deadline of March 23, 2026.
Event Details and Schedule
The soccer class will be led by FC Imabari homegrown coaches, who will divide participants into groups based on their grade level and experience. This ensures that even beginners can confidently participate and enjoy the session. Here’s a breakdown of the schedule:
- Part 1 (Middle and Older Children): 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM (Reception: 10:00 AM – 10:25 AM), 75 minutes in duration. Capacity: 40 participants.
- Part 2 (1st to 3rd Grade Elementary School Students): 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM (Reception: 1:00 PM – 1:25 PM), 90 minutes in duration. Capacity: 50 participants.
Participants are asked to bring appropriate exercise clothing, drinks, athletic shoes, a towel, and a change of clothes. All belongings should be clearly labeled with the participant’s name. Application forms are available online, separated for each part of the event: Part 1 Application Form and Part 2 Application Form. Completed applications will be confirmed via email.
Toy Museum Visit Adds to the Fun
Adding to the day’s activities, the newly established Shimanami Wooden Toy Museum will be hosting a store at the event. The museum, which officially opens on March 20, 2026, is the 15th toy museum in Japan and operates under the guidance of the Certified NPO Art and Play Creation Association, the organization behind the Tokyo Toy Museum. Attendees can participate in free handmade toy workshops and explore the museum’s collection, offering a creative complement to the soccer activities. The Shimanami Wooden Toy Museum aims to connect people and the region while promoting Imabari’s history, culture, and “wood education.”
FC Imabari Saijo School Information
For those interested in ongoing soccer development, FC Imabari’s Saijo school will begin in April 2025. The school’s philosophy centers on providing a challenging environment where children can “challenge and fail on a daily basis and experience the feelings of ‘I made it!’ and ‘It’s fun!’” More information about the FC Imabari Soccer School can be found here.
In the event of rain, the soccer class may be canceled. FC Imabari will provide first aid for any injuries sustained during the activities, but will not be responsible for subsequent medical treatment. Details of the event will likewise be shared on the club’s social media channels.
For inquiries, contact the FC Imabari Homegrown Group via email at [email protected] or by phone at 090-2789-2119 (reception hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM). Mentioning the Saijo Soccer School when contacting the group is recommended.
The “LOVE SOCCER!! LOVE SAIJO!!” event promises a day of fun, learning, and community spirit for young soccer players and their families. As the event approaches, FC Imabari encourages interested participants to apply promptly, as spaces are limited. Keep an eye on the club’s official channels for further updates and details.
Share this exciting opportunity with friends and family and support spread the love of soccer in the Saijo community!
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