Urban Meyer stepping down as Head Coach at the University of Florida was the big news over the weekend. He was hospitalized with chest pains following the SEC Championship game; and several times in the past he has suffered problems with headaches, indicating another possible health problem. It appears that the stress from coaching could be enough to endanger his life.
The Gators were the NCAA defending FBS champions. Meyer is considered at the top of his profession, having brought quick success in his stops at Bowling Green, Utah, and now ending his fifth year at Florida, where they have won two national championships. Florida is now considered a prime head coaching job because of its facilities and fan base, and especially its location in the recruit-rich state of Florida.
It's not surprising- only surprising that it doesn't happen much more often. I wonder if (and I hope) this will begin a discussion in the US about head coaching and head coaches- their health, their roles, and the sometimes inhuman expectations place upon them. Nowadays, football coaching is definitely one of the most intense and stressful jobs imaginable.
It's not just about practice and games and meetings. Add to this the ever-expanding and intensified duties of recruiting. Coaches rarely have much time to spend with their wives and families. It is a 7-day a week job much of the year, 80-120 hours a week. Meals with their families are virtually unknown.
College head coaches are held responsible not only for mentally and physically preparing athletes (over one hundred at a larger program like Florida) for a dozen or so games a year. But they also are held responsible for for monitoring their student-athlete's academic and social activities, pretty much year-round. Then they must spend time and energy dealing with the fans and the press. They are also involved with meeting boosters and fund-raising. The head coach, his staff, and a hundred others are under critical media scrutiny round the clock all year long. anything out of line, and the Head Coach has to answer for it. As Bobby Bowden, who is finally retiring this year, once said: "most parents can't keep track of only 1 or 2 teenagers every hour of the day; I am expected to do it for 105 of them!"
While often compared to CEOs, the reality is that most head coaches are involved with- and worry about- every single detail of their programs. They have to. They dare not leave a single stone unturned, lest they be criticized. Guilt also haunts them. They become obsessed with "out-working" their opponent. When asked what time he woke up and started working in the morning, he answered: "10 minutes earlier than whatever time Jon Gruden said he did." [Gruden is a notorious short sleeper and early riser]. Coaches spend much time doing what is known in the coaching profession as "chasing ghosts", i.e. working through every single possible scenario- of which there are too many to predict.
Apparently Meyer was offered a chance to take a sabbatical by Florida AD Jeremy Foley, which he declined.
I have recently begun to think the sabbatical idea is an interesting concept which should be given more consideration- say after every 5 seasons or so. Of course coaches who are fired or resign are often given an involuntary one, but many seem to benefit from a year or two away
It would allow a coach to spend time with his family and look after his health. It would also give him time to research and visit other programs and learn more about the game. Of course, something like that could hardly happen unilaterally. It would probably have to be something imposed by the Coaches Association and the NCAA, and written into their contracts.
Here's an interesting possible development worth considering. Meyer says he will step down as Head Coach, but will attempt to be involved with the Florida Gators in some way. What role? In the US, some administrative duties are delegated to Director of Football Operations, a position that has developed over the last twenty years or so. Perhaps we will see Meyer move into an expanded Director of Football Operations role, or perhaps there will be some new sort of position created for him. Maybe we will see more duties of head coaches become divided, or they'll become more like corporate CEOs, delegating more to their Recruiting Directors and Coordinators. It will be interesting to see how football evolves.
One of the curious things about Japanese football that is sometimes is difficult to explain to foreigners is how football teams generally have both a Kantoku and a Head Coach. Kantoku is a title (and also an honorific) that is used for skipper of a baseball team (the Manager in English); it is also used to indicate the director of a film. But exact division of labor and authority and ranking between the Head Coach and the Kantoku seems to vary from team to team, and so is hard to define.
Sometimes the Kantoku is the ultimate authority. At others the Head Coach runs the show, while the Kantoku is more of a figurehead, or a liaison with the school or sponsor or alumni network. Hosei University is an example where the Kantoku (Aoki-san) is the spokesman and leader and decision-maker, and directs general policy for the team; yet he is rarely involved with the exact X's and O's. For other teams, such as the Kajima Deers, Head Coach Mori handles all game and practice decisions, while the Kantoku is more of a general manager type. It all seems to depend on culture and needs of the specific organization, and the individual personalities involved.
Is it just possible that executive authority positions in the US may evolve in a way that they more closely resemble the Japanese model?
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Monday, December 21, 2009
X-Bowl 2009 (12/21 Big EGG report)
After losing to the Fujitsu Frontiers on a game-ending field goal in the regular season and trailing at the half, the Kajima Deers came back to win the 23rd annual X-Bowl, 21-14. It was another close, hard-fought match-up between two of the top Kanto League perennial powers. The attendance topped 22,000, filling the lower deck and portions of the upper deck as well.
After several drives that stalled in the first half, the Deers came roaring back (can deers roar?), scoring on their first four drives of the second half, capped by a 78 yard touchdown pass from Yuusuke Ozaki to Naoki Maeda. They twice failed on 2-point conversions and sop so only led 18-11 with 4 minutes left, when they added a 22 -yard field goal to make it 21-7, before Fujitsu frantically tried to come back.
The Frontiers scored with 2:25 left on a 6-yard pass from Izuhara to Brad Brennan to make it 21-14. They failed to gain the on-side kick but were able to get the ball back with around 17 seconds left and were able to move the ball to midfield, but ran out of time.
The Frontiers moved well on their opening drive, scoring on a 32 yard run by RB Yuichi Kon, and holding Kajima scoreless in the first half. But mistakes and missed opportunities plagued their efforts. QB Izuhara seemed to lack arm strength on many of the throws that required them, and was intercepted 3 times, and had another easy interception dropped. He was 12/22 and 121 yards passing, and Motoki Yoshida added 19 yards going 2/4.
The Deers threw the ball for 245 yards, with Takuya Yamashiro going 10/13 and Ozaki going 3/5 including that TD pass Maeda, and had one interception. The Deers held the ball for nearly ten minutes longer than the Frontiers, and out-gained them 408-275.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
12/20 Yokohama Stadium report (JPFF)
A report on an exciting day in Kawasaki coming up in a few hours or so, but first, made an early morning visit to Yokohama Stadium for the the 10AM kickoff of the JPFF Kanto All-Star game, which, fittingly, ended in a 14-all tie.
This is probably the loosest of all the football leagues (certainly looser than the other shakai-jin leagues in the Tokyo area), with little of the grim seriousness of the top university or X-League teams. In the All-Star game, it seemed hardly a play went by without officials or players on one side or the other- and often both- chuckling at some tumble or another. While attendance was small, the early morning game was blessed by brilliant sunshine throughout the whole stadium to warm things up.
By contrast, as the cold late afternoon shadows enveloped most of the field and stands at Yokohama Stadium, the JPFF Kanto championship game between the Kawasaki Grizzlies (in blue) and the Kamakura Lazarus (in red) heated up rather late. It was scoreless at halftime. In the second half, both teams seemed to move the ball more efficiently. But several Lazarus turnovers near the Grizzly goal line kept the game a 6-all tie until late in the contest, when the Lazarus were finally able to score and come away with a 12-6 victory, and the Kanto division crown.
The Lazarus will face the Kansai winner in February (!) 7th for the JPFF Championship. The Kansai League champ will be determined on 1/10, matching the winner of the KGL (either the Riverside Jokers or the Kyoto Southpaws) and the winner of the OFL (Bootlegs or the Nagoya Club Brutus). Those four teams will meet in semi-final action in a double-header in Kansai on Wednesday 12/23.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
12/13 Outreach Bowl and Urban Bowl report
While perhaps not quite as exciting as the Koshien bowl, the games at the Edogawa Track and Field Stadium were still quite close to the end.
In the Outreach Bowl, the Over 39ers scored with just over a minute left, and defeated the Under 59ers 13-0. The 39ers team consisted of older players from several teams in the UF.
The game was played with special rules that essentially forbade contact below the waist or tackling below the ground, and did away with kickoffs. But it was still a good, exciting match.
After a prolonged ceremony my various Edogawa officials (and singing of the rousing Edogawa anthem), the 18th annual Urban Bowl kicked off at 13:30.
The game featured a rematch of the top two teams in A-Block, who won their semi-final games on November 29th. In their regular season game in October, the Beattle Hawks scored the only touchdown in first quarter in a 10-6 victory.
This game would turn out to be even closer. While perhaps not quite as exciting as the Koshien bowl, the Thunderbirds repeated as champions of the UFL by defeating the Battle Hawks by the lowest score possible in a football game actually played: 2-0. (A forfeit is recorded as a 1-0 score). It came on a safety early in the 2nd Quarter.
After intercepting a pass on the Thunderbird's first play from scrimmage, the battle Hawks drove down to the Thunderbird 3-yard line, where they fumbled the ball. After that, the Thunderbirds generally had the better field position throughout the day, twice downing punts in front of the Battle Hawk goal line early on.
Early in the 2nd Quarter, after two straight dives into the middle of the line, the Battle Hawks an a zone play to the right. But the running back Kohei Akahori was tackled behind the line of scrimmage by Sunada resulting in two points for the Thunderbirds.
The Thunderbirds used play action passing quite effectively to complement their run game.
After the halftime show- featuring four cheerleading teams associated with the Edogawa League, the teams continued in the second half much as they had in the first.- mostly a field position game. While both teams moved the ball between the thirties, they were unable to score. A late drive by the Thunderbirds, throwing(!) most of the way, brought them to 4th and goal from the 5 yard line. They tried another play action roll-out pass, which fell incomplete in the end zone.
Taking over with 1:46 remaining, the Battle Hawk used their own Wild Hawk formation to run the ball for a few plays, and then began throwing the ball to around midfield. Remarkably, they still huddled.
They were able to get the ball to the Thunderbird 45 yard line. But on their last play, a sort of tunnel screen, the receiver was tackled after a few yards to end the game.
It was the Thunderbird's fourth Urban League title, as they also won in 2001 and 2004, as well as in 2008. The Battle Hawks won 8 of the first 9 Urban Bowls, and won again in 2006.
2009 Koshien Bowl report
The amazing success of the Kansai University Kaisers this season continued on Sunday, as they defeated the Hosei Tomahawks 50-38 to capture their first Koshien Bowl win in 61 years.
While many were probably expecting a low scoring game, it was 17-16 at halftime, and 33-31 after three quarters. But three scores for Kansai in the 4th quarter put the game away for Kansai. It was primarily the running ability of Yutaka Fujimori and Daichi Haraguchi that made the difference. Haraguchi was awarded as the Best Player, while senior LB Kenjiro Odate received the NFL Special Award. Takuto Hara finished his fine career forHosei, receiving the Fighting Spirit award.
Junior Fujimoiri had said he had always dreamed of playing at Koshien- though he had thought that would come as a high school baseball player in the national tournament.
But on the ground in football, he not only got his wish, he returns home with the Chuck Mills trophy. More importantly he and his teammate bring home the the national collegiate championship trophy.
They will face the X-League champion (to be determined at Tokyo Dome on December 21st) in the nationally televised Rice Bowl on January 3rd.
While many were probably expecting a low scoring game, it was 17-16 at halftime, and 33-31 after three quarters. But three scores for Kansai in the 4th quarter put the game away for Kansai. It was primarily the running ability of Yutaka Fujimori and Daichi Haraguchi that made the difference. Haraguchi was awarded as the Best Player, while senior LB Kenjiro Odate received the NFL Special Award. Takuto Hara finished his fine career forHosei, receiving the Fighting Spirit award.
Junior Fujimoiri had said he had always dreamed of playing at Koshien- though he had thought that would come as a high school baseball player in the national tournament.
But on the ground in football, he not only got his wish, he returns home with the Chuck Mills trophy. More importantly he and his teammate bring home the the national collegiate championship trophy.
They will face the X-League champion (to be determined at Tokyo Dome on December 21st) in the nationally televised Rice Bowl on January 3rd.
12/13: All Ages
The game down in Koshien Bowl is not all that is happening this Sunday.
In the Tokyo area, at Edogawa Rikujo-kyogi-jo track and field stadium in Nishi Kasai, the Urban League Championship game will kick off at 13:30. Vying for the crown will be the Battle Hawks and the Thunderbirds. Each won a hardfought semifinal game to reach the championship game: the Battle Hawks scored a lone touchdown in the 3rd Quarter, but that was enough to defeat the (Edogawa River) E.R. Cougars 7-0. In second semi-final game, the Thunderbirds took even longer to defeat the Roebucks: in a game that went scoreless in regulation, the Thunderbirds scored a TD in overtime to win 6-0.
But perhaps the most interesting game on Sunday- from a human perspective that is- will be at the same stadium before that. The 2nd Annual Outreach Bowl will feature two teams of guys who just can't hang up their cleats. The Over 39ers will face the Under 59ers-and apparently not all of them really are under 59(!)- but essentially guys in their forties and fifties, strappin'em up, and bringin' it on. Apparently there a re a few special rules to protect the knees and limiting tackling, but still football for those whose passion for the game just will not fade away.
In the Tokyo area, at Edogawa Rikujo-kyogi-jo track and field stadium in Nishi Kasai, the Urban League Championship game will kick off at 13:30. Vying for the crown will be the Battle Hawks and the Thunderbirds. Each won a hardfought semifinal game to reach the championship game: the Battle Hawks scored a lone touchdown in the 3rd Quarter, but that was enough to defeat the (Edogawa River) E.R. Cougars 7-0. In second semi-final game, the Thunderbirds took even longer to defeat the Roebucks: in a game that went scoreless in regulation, the Thunderbirds scored a TD in overtime to win 6-0.
But perhaps the most interesting game on Sunday- from a human perspective that is- will be at the same stadium before that. The 2nd Annual Outreach Bowl will feature two teams of guys who just can't hang up their cleats. The Over 39ers will face the Under 59ers-and apparently not all of them really are under 59(!)- but essentially guys in their forties and fifties, strappin'em up, and bringin' it on. Apparently there a re a few special rules to protect the knees and limiting tackling, but still football for those whose passion for the game just will not fade away.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Koshien Bowl 2009
The 64th Annual Koshien Bowl- the contest for supremacy of Japanese collegiate football, will take place Sunday on Japan's most hallowed sports ground, Koshien Stadium in Osaka. This year, Kansai U. will make its first appearance in 61 years, facing perennial contender Hosei University. The Tomahawks lost to Ritsumeikan in last year's Koshien Bowl.Koshien is in its 86th year of existence, and it hosts the National High School Baseball Championship tournament every summer, and the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament every march, as well as being home of the Hanshin Tigers baseball team. It seats approximately 50,000.
Kickoff is at 1:00 PM.
Up-Down
Several of the "Replacement" games were held this weekend. I attended the ones at Komazawa Dai 2 Stadium. Neither of the Area League teams was able to unseat the last placed Division III teams, but the Shibaura Fighting Engineers gave the Fighting Seagulss of Yokohama City University all they could handle, finally succumbing by a 17-10 score.
In the earlier game, Bunkyo University defeated Takasaki City University of Economics 35-7.
Monday, December 7, 2009
12/6 Kawaski: X semi-final
The Fujitsu Frontiers dominated the Asahi Silver Stars in their contest on Sunday at Kawasaki Stadium, setting up a rematch with the Kajima Deers in X-Bowl 2009 at Tokyo Dome on December 21st.
The Frontiers led 17-6 at halftime, and scored another TD 17 seconds into the 3rd quarter, before Asahi was able to score a pair of TDs n the second half. The Silver Stars outgained the Frontiers in total offense, accumulating 333 yards through the air on 51 attempts. But the Frontiers held the Silver Stars to 26 yards on 26 carries on the ground, and were stopped several times in the second half, including a goal line stand on 4th and goal, to ensure the victory.
Had some great shots of the action, the fans, and of the cheerleaders for both teams as well as the all-league cheerleading squad which performed at halftime...but they mysteriously disappeared on the ride back to Tokyo. Hope to redo some of those at the X-Bowl.
Fujitsu defeated Kajima on a last second FG in their showdown on October 25th to win the X-League Central Division.
The X-Bowl is scheduled to kick off Monday, December 21st at 7 PM.
The Frontiers led 17-6 at halftime, and scored another TD 17 seconds into the 3rd quarter, before Asahi was able to score a pair of TDs n the second half. The Silver Stars outgained the Frontiers in total offense, accumulating 333 yards through the air on 51 attempts. But the Frontiers held the Silver Stars to 26 yards on 26 carries on the ground, and were stopped several times in the second half, including a goal line stand on 4th and goal, to ensure the victory.
Had some great shots of the action, the fans, and of the cheerleaders for both teams as well as the all-league cheerleading squad which performed at halftime...but they mysteriously disappeared on the ride back to Tokyo. Hope to redo some of those at the X-Bowl.
Fujitsu defeated Kajima on a last second FG in their showdown on October 25th to win the X-League Central Division.
The X-Bowl is scheduled to kick off Monday, December 21st at 7 PM.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
12/5: More X-Men
For the first time in memory (in my memory, anyway), the initial Saturday in December was not warm and sunny afternoon in the Tokyo. But it was still quite a fine day- if you happen to be a creature from the woods.
In X2 action at Kawasaki, Club Oaks held the Wranglers to 99 yards rushing and only 5 of 22 passing, as they came away 27-13 victors, their first victory of the season.
In the afternoon game, The Dentsu Caterpillars proved mightier than the Warriors 30-7. That makes them 5-0, while the Warriors are 3-2.
The big news of the day in X-League came from Nagai Stadium in Osaka. Despite giving up 348 yards passing and 520 yards of total offense, the Kajima Deers defeated defending X-League champions Panasonic Impulse 34-26. The Deers trailed 17-0 midway through the 2nd quarter before an 89 yard kickoff return by Maeda got them on the board. They followed that with a FG and three TDs in the 3rd quarter. In spite of Panasonic going 23 for 29 passing, it was 3 interceptions- including one returned for a TD- which proved their undoing.
The Deers has earned a right to go to the X-Bowl in Tokyo Dome on December 21st where they'll meet the winner of the other semi-final game played at Yokohama Stadium on Sunday between Fujitsu Frontiers and Asahi Silver Stars.
In X2 action at Kawasaki, Club Oaks held the Wranglers to 99 yards rushing and only 5 of 22 passing, as they came away 27-13 victors, their first victory of the season.
In the afternoon game, The Dentsu Caterpillars proved mightier than the Warriors 30-7. That makes them 5-0, while the Warriors are 3-2.
The big news of the day in X-League came from Nagai Stadium in Osaka. Despite giving up 348 yards passing and 520 yards of total offense, the Kajima Deers defeated defending X-League champions Panasonic Impulse 34-26. The Deers trailed 17-0 midway through the 2nd quarter before an 89 yard kickoff return by Maeda got them on the board. They followed that with a FG and three TDs in the 3rd quarter. In spite of Panasonic going 23 for 29 passing, it was 3 interceptions- including one returned for a TD- which proved their undoing.
The Deers has earned a right to go to the X-Bowl in Tokyo Dome on December 21st where they'll meet the winner of the other semi-final game played at Yokohama Stadium on Sunday between Fujitsu Frontiers and Asahi Silver Stars.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
X-Men
In 2009, to celebrate the 75th anniversary of American football in Japan, (and after all, we have, according to the KCFA yearbook "A CHALLENGE STARTS TO THE 100th ANNIVERSARY"!) the post-season schedule formats for the top university and shakai-jin leagues were altered to try to improve things. In the case of the shakai-jin X-League Division I that meant changing the format, dividing the season into two "stages". The First Stage concluded at the end of October.
The top 3 teams of the East, Central, and West divisions then were put into a pool to play each other in a Second Stage. The bottom 3 teams in each division did likewise. The goal was to was to create more balanced games later in the year. This makes more sense to me for several reasons. Perhaps greatest of all was that formerly, the (regular) season was over for most teams early in November. In most parts of Japan September suffers from the oppressive heat of summer giving way to taiphoon season. In Tokyo, some of the best football weather of the year comes in November and December. This gave us more games (and hopefully more evenly-matched games) that could be played and viewed in comfort.
There may have been some question as to whether those 3rd place teams actually belonged this year- they were mostly trounced by the higher placed teams- but this is obviously a work in progress. Each team played two games against their 2nd Stage pool. Then 4 teams were chosen to represent the divisions, along with a wild-card team (this year the Kajima Deers) based on their combined record in the two stages.
Nevertheless, the semi-finals will be played on December 5th (at Nagai)- a rematch of last year's X-Bowl (Kajima versus Panasonic), and December 6th (at Yokohama Stadium), where the Fujitsu Fronteirs will take in the Asahi Beer Silver Stars. Kickoff for both games will be at 14:30.
The winners of those games will meet on Monday evening, December 21st at Tokyo Dome, for the 23rd X-Bowl.
The top 3 teams of the East, Central, and West divisions then were put into a pool to play each other in a Second Stage. The bottom 3 teams in each division did likewise. The goal was to was to create more balanced games later in the year. This makes more sense to me for several reasons. Perhaps greatest of all was that formerly, the (regular) season was over for most teams early in November. In most parts of Japan September suffers from the oppressive heat of summer giving way to taiphoon season. In Tokyo, some of the best football weather of the year comes in November and December. This gave us more games (and hopefully more evenly-matched games) that could be played and viewed in comfort.
There may have been some question as to whether those 3rd place teams actually belonged this year- they were mostly trounced by the higher placed teams- but this is obviously a work in progress. Each team played two games against their 2nd Stage pool. Then 4 teams were chosen to represent the divisions, along with a wild-card team (this year the Kajima Deers) based on their combined record in the two stages.
Nevertheless, the semi-finals will be played on December 5th (at Nagai)- a rematch of last year's X-Bowl (Kajima versus Panasonic), and December 6th (at Yokohama Stadium), where the Fujitsu Fronteirs will take in the Asahi Beer Silver Stars. Kickoff for both games will be at 14:30.
The winners of those games will meet on Monday evening, December 21st at Tokyo Dome, for the 23rd X-Bowl.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Clash Bowl, Flash Bowl
The 10th annual Clash Bowl to determine Japan's eastern collegiate champions was played on Sunday at Ajinomoto Stadium, and the Hosei Tomahawks dominated the Waseda Big Bears 38-11. Hosei led at halftime 21-0, and went up at one point 38-3, before the Big Bears scored late.
The Tomahawks will face Kansai University, winners of the Flash Bowl- the champions of western Japan. The Kaisers- this year's surprise winners of the Kansai league- defeated Meijou of Nagoya (the winner of the Tokai region and subsequent playoff) 42-6 today to become the Western Champion.
The two teams will meet on December 13th in Osaka at the Koshien Bowl to determine a truly national collegiate champion for Japan. Previous Koshien bowls were in the form of an invitational, with the Kansai league champ playing the winner from the Kanto league. But beginning this year, a playoff system was enacted to involve the other geographical areas of Japan, including Tohoku and Hokkaido in the east; and Kyushu, Hokoriku, Choshikoku, and Tokai in the west.
The winner of the Koshien Bowl will then face the top shakaijin team from the X-League on January 3rd, in the Rice Bowl.
The Tomahawks will face Kansai University, winners of the Flash Bowl- the champions of western Japan. The Kaisers- this year's surprise winners of the Kansai league- defeated Meijou of Nagoya (the winner of the Tokai region and subsequent playoff) 42-6 today to become the Western Champion.
The two teams will meet on December 13th in Osaka at the Koshien Bowl to determine a truly national collegiate champion for Japan. Previous Koshien bowls were in the form of an invitational, with the Kansai league champ playing the winner from the Kanto league. But beginning this year, a playoff system was enacted to involve the other geographical areas of Japan, including Tohoku and Hokkaido in the east; and Kyushu, Hokoriku, Choshikoku, and Tokai in the west.
The winner of the Koshien Bowl will then face the top shakaijin team from the X-League on January 3rd, in the Rice Bowl.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
November 28th @ Aminovital
Late November means the end of the regular season. Normally, it should mean some of the best games of the year, as games are seeded (based on the previous year's standings), meaning that we will see #1 vs #2, #3 vs #4, and so on in the last game.
While none of the games on Saturday turned out to be close, the final games are important, as the top two finishers in each Division II block will play the bottom two teams in their respective Division I blocks with a chance to move up and take their place.
While KCFA Division II B block teams were squaring off in Kawasaki, the top 6 teams of A block met at Aminovital.
In both divisions, the top ranked teams (Komazawa in A, Kanagawa in B) repeated as champions, with the #3 and #5 teams filling in the next spots.
In B block, Kanagawa finshed their regular season by shutting out Tokyo Gakuin 21-0, and will face the Teikyo Assasins on December 20th. 3rd seed Aoyama Gakuin, whose only loss was a forfeit to Kanagawa on November 14th, defeated the Tsukuba Excaliburs 42-17. They will face the Senshu Green Machine on the replacement/relegation/up-down game.
Meanwhile, in A Block the Obirin (count 'em) Three Nails Crown (4-2-1) scored 21 unanswered points in the 2nd half to defeat the Komazawa Blue Tide 21-6, but Komazawa (5-2) had already clinched the division title, and will play Yokohama Kokuritsu to try to reach the first division. In the middle game, the T.I.T. Buffaloes (5-2) dominated the Self Defense Force Academy Cadets (1-5-1) who dropped to 7th place, 31-0. DT/P/K Daisuke Izumihara continued to impress with booming kicks and a long FG for the Buffaloes, and sophomore QB Tatsuya Tokunaga had an effective day passing, and senior QB Mamoru Saitoh doubled as TB. The Buffaloes' final score came as the result of a Saitoh to Tokunaga throwback pass for a touchdown.
Unfortunately for them, Buffaloes will not make it to the playoff games on December 19th, as the surprising 5th seed Tokyo City U. Helios (5-2) defeated winless Utsunomiya by a 35-6 score. The Helios are scheduled to face Ichinohashi U. for their Division I spot.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Kansai Clash
Fabulous football weekend in Kansai. High school, college, and shakaijin games, and a nice trip to practice and the impressive facilities at Ritsumeikan, including their amazing weight room.
Much more intense, passionate vibe around football down there.
Will flesh out more details later!
Much more intense, passionate vibe around football down there.
Will flesh out more details later!
Saturday, November 21, 2009
New Kansai Champion!
The feel-good story for the 2009 football season has to be the triumph of the Kansai Unversity Kaisers. The Kaisers closed out their season on Saturday, defeating Konan 44-7 before a large crowd of their fans at suburban Kobe's Oji Stadium, to go a perfect 7-0 and win the Kansai League for the first time in 61 years.
The star QB of their 1948 team was Heian Hazama, now the honorary Chairman of the American Football Association's Western Conference, who was positively beaming after the game.
Kansai had finished the 2008 season in 5th place. They shocked the Kansai football world earlier in the season by knocking off perennial powers Ritsumeikan and Kansai Gakuin, by 14-7 and 17-13 scores, respectively.
Much of the credit is given to their head coach an alumnus of former power Kyoto University, who has overseen upgrading of the facilities and the program.
The star QB of their 1948 team was Heian Hazama, now the honorary Chairman of the American Football Association's Western Conference, who was positively beaming after the game.
Kansai had finished the 2008 season in 5th place. They shocked the Kansai football world earlier in the season by knocking off perennial powers Ritsumeikan and Kansai Gakuin, by 14-7 and 17-13 scores, respectively.
Much of the credit is given to their head coach an alumnus of former power Kyoto University, who has overseen upgrading of the facilities and the program.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Clash Bowl round 1 notes (November 15th)
The new college football playoff format began Sunday, as Hosei Tomahawks and Waseda Big Bears each won their respective first round games, by nearly identical 57-13 and 59-12 scores respectively over the Otaru Tomahawks, and the Sendai Silver Falcons.
The Hokkaido champion Otaru Tomahawks tied KCFA A Block champion Hosei at 7-all on a 45 yard return by Takumi Sekine of a blocked punt midway through the first quarter. But then the Hosei offense went to work, scoring touchdowns on their next five possessions, and led 41-10 at halftime.
On the day they ran the ball 48 times for 419 yards, including 117 yards on 17 carries from Kentaro Katoh (including the first and last TDs of the game), and 98 yards on 11 carries from freshman Tetsuo Ikeda. QB's Yamaguchi and Takajima went 10-12 passing at one point, and combined for 159 yards and 3 TDs. They controlled the ball on a couple of five minute drives in the 4th quarter, and Otaru had little chance.
Otaru's impressive standout was their TE and kicker Tadashi Iwasaki (#81 junior), who boomed kickoffs to the endzone (even after a 5-yard penalty), and kicked a 47-yard field goal at the end of the first half, and then kicked a 52-yarder early in the 3rd. That is unofficially a Clash Bowl record. The junior TE also caught 3 passes for 47 yards.
Not to be outdone, Waseda's Tomokazu Suehiro (RB #30) scored three TD's in the first half, and led 41-6 at half-time as the KCFA B Block surprise champion Big Bears defeated the Tohoku champion Sendai Silver Falcons 59-12. Suehiro finished with 119 yards on 10 carries. Waseda QBs Haga and Hirono only completed 3 passes (on 9 attempts), but finished with 353 yards total offense, double the output of the Silver Falcons offense.
The Big Bears defense was dominant, led by Ryo Takada's 4 tackles and Scott Duffy (#99 jr, from Huntington Beach, CA) at NG, his very conspicuous in his pink tape-wrapped shoes ("they ran out of black", he explained). The second half was fielded mostly by 2nd and 3rd teamers for Waseda.
The standout- literally- for Sendai was their tall (198cm) TE/WR/P/DL (#86) Kohei Okajima. Sendai had some success getting the junior open deep against much shorter defenders, though for some reason, the Silver Falcons kept trying to throw him a lot of Outs. He ended up with 4 catches for 60 yards, in addition to 5 punts for 157 yards (31.4 average). RB Hironobu Marui (#22 sr) impressed the Big Bears, with 66 yards on 10 carries. Junior QB Sasuga Yoshida was 10-20 passing for 96 yards.
The score should have been closer, but the Silver Falcons self-destructed several times in the red zone- giving up penalties and sacks and mistakes after driving to first and goal.
While the teams from the north were obviously not yet prepared for the speed and strength of the Kanto teams, everyone seems agreed that this game and new format is a positive first step to creating more nation-wide interest in football in Japan.
The Hokkaido champion Otaru Tomahawks tied KCFA A Block champion Hosei at 7-all on a 45 yard return by Takumi Sekine of a blocked punt midway through the first quarter. But then the Hosei offense went to work, scoring touchdowns on their next five possessions, and led 41-10 at halftime.
On the day they ran the ball 48 times for 419 yards, including 117 yards on 17 carries from Kentaro Katoh (including the first and last TDs of the game), and 98 yards on 11 carries from freshman Tetsuo Ikeda. QB's Yamaguchi and Takajima went 10-12 passing at one point, and combined for 159 yards and 3 TDs. They controlled the ball on a couple of five minute drives in the 4th quarter, and Otaru had little chance.Otaru's impressive standout was their TE and kicker Tadashi Iwasaki (#81 junior), who boomed kickoffs to the endzone (even after a 5-yard penalty), and kicked a 47-yard field goal at the end of the first half, and then kicked a 52-yarder early in the 3rd. That is unofficially a Clash Bowl record. The junior TE also caught 3 passes for 47 yards.
Not to be outdone, Waseda's Tomokazu Suehiro (RB #30) scored three TD's in the first half, and led 41-6 at half-time as the KCFA B Block surprise champion Big Bears defeated the Tohoku champion Sendai Silver Falcons 59-12. Suehiro finished with 119 yards on 10 carries. Waseda QBs Haga and Hirono only completed 3 passes (on 9 attempts), but finished with 353 yards total offense, double the output of the Silver Falcons offense.
The Big Bears defense was dominant, led by Ryo Takada's 4 tackles and Scott Duffy (#99 jr, from Huntington Beach, CA) at NG, his very conspicuous in his pink tape-wrapped shoes ("they ran out of black", he explained). The second half was fielded mostly by 2nd and 3rd teamers for Waseda.The standout- literally- for Sendai was their tall (198cm) TE/WR/P/DL (#86) Kohei Okajima. Sendai had some success getting the junior open deep against much shorter defenders, though for some reason, the Silver Falcons kept trying to throw him a lot of Outs. He ended up with 4 catches for 60 yards, in addition to 5 punts for 157 yards (31.4 average). RB Hironobu Marui (#22 sr) impressed the Big Bears, with 66 yards on 10 carries. Junior QB Sasuga Yoshida was 10-20 passing for 96 yards.
The score should have been closer, but the Silver Falcons self-destructed several times in the red zone- giving up penalties and sacks and mistakes after driving to first and goal.
While the teams from the north were obviously not yet prepared for the speed and strength of the Kanto teams, everyone seems agreed that this game and new format is a positive first step to creating more nation-wide interest in football in Japan.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Return of the Single Wing?
Something curious I have noticed in recent weeks has been the rebirth of actual Single Wing formations. No, not talking about the shotgun. And not even Wildcat formations that has become the rage all the way up to the NFL in the States this year. We are talking about honest-to- goodness, old-fashioned tight formations in a single wing or Notre Dame box, just like your (great) grand-daddy used to know and love.
On Halloween the T.I.T. Buffaloes waited till the second halfe to break out the ghosts of the old Spinner Series, and even broke one for a long touchdown in their 23-6 victory over the Obirin Three Nails Crown to seal the lid on their, er, coffin.
The Meiji Griffns used a similar 2TE, Single Wing formation yesterday in the second half as a power formation with some success, when they attempted to drive down and tie the score with Hosei, in the exciting game they finally lost 35-28.
On Halloween the T.I.T. Buffaloes waited till the second halfe to break out the ghosts of the old Spinner Series, and even broke one for a long touchdown in their 23-6 victory over the Obirin Three Nails Crown to seal the lid on their, er, coffin.
The Meiji Griffns used a similar 2TE, Single Wing formation yesterday in the second half as a power formation with some success, when they attempted to drive down and tie the score with Hosei, in the exciting game they finally lost 35-28.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
November 7, 8th notes
Ends and beginnings.
The X-League Division I 'Second Stage' got off to a- well, i guess you could call it a start- this weekend, and the KCFA concluded its Division I seasons with a couple of exciting games at the top.
Based on standings through the first 5 games, the top shakaijin division split each conference into top and bottom three teams, and began playing teams in the other conference. This unfortunately still did not necessarily bring about enough in the way of competitiveness, as Fujitsu and Panasonic (among others) now in mid-season form romped to one-sided victories.
Such was not the case in local college football. Hosei scored at the end of the first half to make it 28-14, and the Tomahawks somehow outlasted the power of the Meiji Griffins in Souta Kyoshi's last game, 35-28.
But the real shocker came on Saturday, when the Waseda Big Bears- who in games earlier this season had lost to Division I newcomer Kokushukan Rhinoceros (3-4) and had to go to overtime to beat the Senshu Green Machine (2-5)- knocked off undefeated the Nihon University Phoenix 24-21 to win the KCFA Division I B block with a 6-1 record. It was Nihon's first loss in regular season in several years .
The X-League Division I 'Second Stage' got off to a- well, i guess you could call it a start- this weekend, and the KCFA concluded its Division I seasons with a couple of exciting games at the top.
Based on standings through the first 5 games, the top shakaijin division split each conference into top and bottom three teams, and began playing teams in the other conference. This unfortunately still did not necessarily bring about enough in the way of competitiveness, as Fujitsu and Panasonic (among others) now in mid-season form romped to one-sided victories.
Such was not the case in local college football. Hosei scored at the end of the first half to make it 28-14, and the Tomahawks somehow outlasted the power of the Meiji Griffins in Souta Kyoshi's last game, 35-28.
But the real shocker came on Saturday, when the Waseda Big Bears- who in games earlier this season had lost to Division I newcomer Kokushukan Rhinoceros (3-4) and had to go to overtime to beat the Senshu Green Machine (2-5)- knocked off undefeated the Nihon University Phoenix 24-21 to win the KCFA Division I B block with a 6-1 record. It was Nihon's first loss in regular season in several years .
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Culture Day: 11/3 report
November 3rd is "Culture Day" in Japan. For me that means football!
Not a lot of scoring on Tuesday at AminoVital Field (with Mt. Fuji in the background on the left in the photo, and football in the foreground on the right).
But nonetheless, there was some some exciting, hard-hitting football for the national holiday. In all, four games (count 'em!). Double,-double the fun! Well, not exactly, as at the lower divisions and the medical leagues, they play with 10-minute quarters.
The first three games were amongst medical university teams. In Japan, students apply for and enter medical and dental schools directly after high school, and undergo a six year education. This, of course means that in addition to never worrying about injuries receiving enough attention at their football games, athletes are a whole given 6 years of eligibility, and play in special leagues.
In the morning game (10 AM Kickoff!), the the Nihon U. Monster Squad were stung for the 3rd time this season, this time by the Tokyo U. Sorpions, 14-0. [OK there's one mascot pun; but at least i promise not to make any cheap doctor jokes[.
Next, in a contest between last year's Medical School A Block co-champions the Teikyo U. Rascals and the Showa University Mad Dogs. The two teams tussled their way to a 3-0 upset victory for the Mad Dogs. Both teams are now 1-2, with two more games to play.
Meanwhile the players and staff of the Jikkei Crickets were looking on, quietly cheering the Mad Dogs as they warmed up for their math against the Roadrunners. The Crickets came out on top of their game 15-7, so they lead the now consolidated Division I with a perfect 3-0 record, with their last two games remaining against those Rascals and Mad Dogs.
The 4th game was an "Area League" (below Division III) contest between the Shibaura Fighting Engineers , and Tokyo Keizi University Falcons. Both teams were unbeaten coming into this game (it was only their second game), and this game was for the top of the division, as the top-seeded Dokkyo Green Monsters have already lost twice.
I was very impressed by how well-coached each time seems to be, and they are undoubtedly on the rise.
The Falcons struck first with a field goal, and the Fighting Engineers tied the game on a FG just before halftime to make it 3-3. The Engineers went ahead late in the 3rd Quarter, 10-3. But the Falcons answered that with a TD of their own early in the 4th Quarter to tie it at 10-10. The Fighting Engineers, dressed in their all white uniforms- just think of Penn State, but rather in green, with a block 'S' on the side of their helmets- then started a sustained drive, and scored with just a few minutes left. Without hesitation, they lined up but faked the extra point conversion, throwing to the flat for two points to make it 18-10. That gamble seemed to put extra pressure on the Falcons, who after moving the ball to midfield, threw an interception, thus sealing the win for Shibaura. The Fighting Engineers are now at the top of their division, which is quite an accomplishment for a team that only started up playing football again last year.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
11/1 report: Edogawa Action
While the KCFA (universities) and X-League (for shakaijin) draw the most attention, in the Kanto area of Japan, let's not forget that there are other teams and leagues in the area as well that offer some excitement and opportunities for players and fan as well. These include the Kanto College Football-Club Federation a at the college level; and the Japan Private Football Federation and the Edogawa-ku sponsored Urban Football League now in its 16th season.
I made it a point to catch several UFL games at Oi Stadium (#2!) on a balmy Sunday afternoon that was perfect weather for football.
I especially enjoyed the hard-fought middle game between the Jets and the Razorbacks. The Jets seem to have a small, but loyal following, and they provide a nice 4- page newsletter for the taking which is updated for each game.
The kicking game was the biggest difference- the Razorbacks converted a long FG; while the Jets missed an extra point and had several problems with snaps and getting kicks away in the punting game. Yet they were still in the ball game, trailing only 10-6 after scoring with a few minutes left.
The ensuing onside kick spun violently like a top (or a dreidel if that helps)...but traveled less than two yards. The Razorbacks took over. Surprisingly, they did not sit on the ball, but rather moved into position to try a FG on the final play (something to do with point differential affecting league standing or tie-breakers perhaps?)...which of course was blocked. The Jets picked it up and ran with it, but the ball was tackled before reaching midfield to end the game.
The late game was blowout, but in the first game, the Roebucks came from behind to defeat the Broncos, 14-9.
I made it a point to catch several UFL games at Oi Stadium (#2!) on a balmy Sunday afternoon that was perfect weather for football.
I especially enjoyed the hard-fought middle game between the Jets and the Razorbacks. The Jets seem to have a small, but loyal following, and they provide a nice 4- page newsletter for the taking which is updated for each game.
The kicking game was the biggest difference- the Razorbacks converted a long FG; while the Jets missed an extra point and had several problems with snaps and getting kicks away in the punting game. Yet they were still in the ball game, trailing only 10-6 after scoring with a few minutes left.
The ensuing onside kick spun violently like a top (or a dreidel if that helps)...but traveled less than two yards. The Razorbacks took over. Surprisingly, they did not sit on the ball, but rather moved into position to try a FG on the final play (something to do with point differential affecting league standing or tie-breakers perhaps?)...which of course was blocked. The Jets picked it up and ran with it, but the ball was tackled before reaching midfield to end the game.
The late game was blowout, but in the first game, the Roebucks came from behind to defeat the Broncos, 14-9.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
10/25 notes Kawasaki
Made it to Kawasaki for a thrilling Fujitsu Frontiers 22-20 victory over the Kajima Deers for the X-League Central division title. The Frontiers won it on a field goal as time expired, the last of several lead changes in the final minutes.
As WR Brad Brennan commented after the game, "we haven't had a good win like this in quite a while. It feels great to have the monkey off our backs".
As WR Brad Brennan commented after the game, "we haven't had a good win like this in quite a while. It feels great to have the monkey off our backs".
Monday, September 28, 2009
9/26,27 notes Kawasaki
Made it to Kawasaki for triple-headers on Saturday and Sunday- mostly KCFA games, but the night game on Sunday was the Unisys Bulls playing the Asahi Silver Stars on their home turf. Unisys started the game with a nice drive or two, but hampered themselves with fumbles, giving the ball away as they neared the goal line. Asahi finally got moving, and took command. Unisys had hoped that its speed could help negate the Silver Stars' superior size, but seemed to wear down.
In the early game on Sunday, Keio was well out in front of Yohohama Kokuritsu before the Mastiffs rallied late for three scores. It didn't change the result, but I was impressed by the Yokohama QB's handling of the hurry-up offense. I think they are the first Japanese team I have seen this year that doesn't spike the ball on first down, a procedure that seems ridiculous to me- most teams trailing run out of downs before they run out of seconds.
Indeed, at the end of the middle game, Tokyo University spiked the ball on 1st and 3rd down with the ball at the Hosei goal line, effectively giving them only two chances to score instead of four. The Warriors gave the Tomahawks some problems with their option. But good pursuit generally contained the damage. Hosei looked alternatively sharp and sloppy, but most of the time I got the feeling they were just toying with their opponent.
I was looking forward to seeing Saturday's games after Kokushukan's upset of Waseda. The Rhiniceros did not fail to impress- they simply are not afraid, and gave Senshu all they could handle before losing 27-21 in overtime. Waseda seems to shaken off their previous loss, and Nichidai looked dominant.
It was really great hearing the student bands out there- it couldn't have been easy especially sitting on the visitors sideline facing the sun directly, but they really added something positive to the atmosphere!
In the early game on Sunday, Keio was well out in front of Yohohama Kokuritsu before the Mastiffs rallied late for three scores. It didn't change the result, but I was impressed by the Yokohama QB's handling of the hurry-up offense. I think they are the first Japanese team I have seen this year that doesn't spike the ball on first down, a procedure that seems ridiculous to me- most teams trailing run out of downs before they run out of seconds.
Indeed, at the end of the middle game, Tokyo University spiked the ball on 1st and 3rd down with the ball at the Hosei goal line, effectively giving them only two chances to score instead of four. The Warriors gave the Tomahawks some problems with their option. But good pursuit generally contained the damage. Hosei looked alternatively sharp and sloppy, but most of the time I got the feeling they were just toying with their opponent.
I was looking forward to seeing Saturday's games after Kokushukan's upset of Waseda. The Rhiniceros did not fail to impress- they simply are not afraid, and gave Senshu all they could handle before losing 27-21 in overtime. Waseda seems to shaken off their previous loss, and Nichidai looked dominant.
It was really great hearing the student bands out there- it couldn't have been easy especially sitting on the visitors sideline facing the sun directly, but they really added something positive to the atmosphere!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
post Silver Week
Was away for part of Silver Week, but made it to several games, and six more this past weekend.
One of the ugliest things I had the misfortune to look at was the Sagamihara Rise pummeling the Itochu Wings, in a a clear mismatch. I am not really sure what bothered me more: the Rise running their no-huddle and calling time outs late in the 4th quarter when ahead by more than a dozen touchdowns; or the some of the Wings who seemed to give up almost as soon as the game began. I don't like calling anyone out here, but on some plays I counted four offensive lineman standing and watching their defensive counterparts in the offensive backfield, tackling the QB or ball carrier for a loss. Above all, football is about never, ever quitting. Ever.
The Rise are, of course, the rebirth of Onward, who suddenly lost their corporate sponsorship late last year. They reformed as a municipal team, and are enjoying great support from (and involvement with) Sagamihara. Unfortunately, technically as a brand new team, they had to begin again in Division 3. They have a 60-man roster of Division 1 talent, playing against mostly teams that are lucky to get 20-25 suited up for a game.
According to Coach Dan Lynds, the hardest thing is keeping the players motivated and focused against the over-matched competition. Seems that their scrimmages are more of a challenge than the regular season games right now. At the end of the season, they are hoping to play a charity bowl game against a team from Kansai in a similar condition. Anyway, unless something changes, the Rise will be wearing white for two more years- which is about when they will be finally back to pickin' on someone their own size.
The nightcap at Oi on Wednesday was somewhat more interesting and competitive, with the Mitusi Seagulls coming from behind with 22 points in the 4th quarter to beat the Steelers.
Both teams are able to suit up around two dozen players, so they are obviously in need of players.
One of the ugliest things I had the misfortune to look at was the Sagamihara Rise pummeling the Itochu Wings, in a a clear mismatch. I am not really sure what bothered me more: the Rise running their no-huddle and calling time outs late in the 4th quarter when ahead by more than a dozen touchdowns; or the some of the Wings who seemed to give up almost as soon as the game began. I don't like calling anyone out here, but on some plays I counted four offensive lineman standing and watching their defensive counterparts in the offensive backfield, tackling the QB or ball carrier for a loss. Above all, football is about never, ever quitting. Ever.
The Rise are, of course, the rebirth of Onward, who suddenly lost their corporate sponsorship late last year. They reformed as a municipal team, and are enjoying great support from (and involvement with) Sagamihara. Unfortunately, technically as a brand new team, they had to begin again in Division 3. They have a 60-man roster of Division 1 talent, playing against mostly teams that are lucky to get 20-25 suited up for a game.
According to Coach Dan Lynds, the hardest thing is keeping the players motivated and focused against the over-matched competition. Seems that their scrimmages are more of a challenge than the regular season games right now. At the end of the season, they are hoping to play a charity bowl game against a team from Kansai in a similar condition. Anyway, unless something changes, the Rise will be wearing white for two more years- which is about when they will be finally back to pickin' on someone their own size.
The nightcap at Oi on Wednesday was somewhat more interesting and competitive, with the Mitusi Seagulls coming from behind with 22 points in the 4th quarter to beat the Steelers.
Both teams are able to suit up around two dozen players, so they are obviously in need of players.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
random 2009 September notes
notes:
The odd summer weather in Japan this year- a bit cooler than normal- has made it great for watching football. While the rain came down on Saturday, there really hasn't been any nasty typhoon weather. Sunday was warm, sunny, and beautiful. Hope we get more of the same for upcoming 'Silver Week' and can see some more fans out at the stadiums.
* Was a bit bleary eyed from (internet) watching NCAA games (Michigan-Notre Dame...wow!), but there was some exciting early season football played in Japan, too.
* Perhaps the most stunning event of the weekend and perhaps the early season so far was Kokushukan's upset of Waseda in college division 1 at Amino Vital. A goal line stand with 10 seconds remaining gave the Rhinos a 7-3 (!) victory over the Big Bears.
Kokushukan is new to Division 1 this year.
* The Rhinos occasionally share their practice field (and scrimmage) with the Unisys Bulls.
The Bulls also enjoyed their first win in (X-League) Division 1 after moving up this year, defeating the All-Mitsubishi Lions 17-14 at Kawasaki on Sunday. The Bulls and Fuji Xerox (3rd year in the top division) are both 1-1.
* While there is nothing like parity yet, but things are improving in the X-League somewhat. While definitely stronger than others lower in their division, the Asahi Silver Stars look vulnerable- they only led the Gas Creators by a mere 14-7 at the start of the 4th quarter.
* Kawasaki Stadium: I have to say, it keeps evolving as a better and better place for football. This year they have extended the stands further towards the end zone which was the former home of, well, home plate. Now the cheerleaders have a bit more room to...[come on] Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, a-Shake It. [Yeah, I know- shame on me]
There is consequently slightly less of it, but there is still a grassy "picnic area" behind home plate, which I would like to see families and fans and teams make more use made of.
* Other improvements at Kawasaki have included raising the scoreboard. Much more prominent and easier to see now. Just one problem: unfortunately the lights are just not powerful enough, so with the sun shining directly upon it it during much of the second half of the second game, it was impossible to see anything from the "Visitor" sideline.
When such times come (of course, exactly when depends on the time of year), perhaps it would help if the referee reminded the PA announcer to call out the time remaining each time the clock stopped, particularly say, in the last 3 minutes or so of each quarter. Fortunately it didn't turn out to be a factor in yesterday's 17-14 Bulls-Lions game- but it easily could have been.
* BTW seems like every time i see him officiate a game, Bill Passwaters is the umpire. Can't help wondering: is that because he likes it there, or do they put the gaijin in the officiating spot most likely to get caught up in the fray, or to get run over? [insert Yakety Sax footage here]
* I also think I have been seeing better officiating than in the past. Still some missed calls and bogus PI calls; and I have yet to witness a call for helmet-to-helmet contact in Japan. But it seems to be better informed, more decisive. There seem to be fewer of those confounded confabulations- all around, the zebras seem more sure of themselves in the midst of all those roaming Lions and Tigers and Bears.
The odd summer weather in Japan this year- a bit cooler than normal- has made it great for watching football. While the rain came down on Saturday, there really hasn't been any nasty typhoon weather. Sunday was warm, sunny, and beautiful. Hope we get more of the same for upcoming 'Silver Week' and can see some more fans out at the stadiums.
* Was a bit bleary eyed from (internet) watching NCAA games (Michigan-Notre Dame...wow!), but there was some exciting early season football played in Japan, too.
* Perhaps the most stunning event of the weekend and perhaps the early season so far was Kokushukan's upset of Waseda in college division 1 at Amino Vital. A goal line stand with 10 seconds remaining gave the Rhinos a 7-3 (!) victory over the Big Bears.
Kokushukan is new to Division 1 this year.
* The Rhinos occasionally share their practice field (and scrimmage) with the Unisys Bulls.
The Bulls also enjoyed their first win in (X-League) Division 1 after moving up this year, defeating the All-Mitsubishi Lions 17-14 at Kawasaki on Sunday. The Bulls and Fuji Xerox (3rd year in the top division) are both 1-1.
* While there is nothing like parity yet, but things are improving in the X-League somewhat. While definitely stronger than others lower in their division, the Asahi Silver Stars look vulnerable- they only led the Gas Creators by a mere 14-7 at the start of the 4th quarter.
* Kawasaki Stadium: I have to say, it keeps evolving as a better and better place for football. This year they have extended the stands further towards the end zone which was the former home of, well, home plate. Now the cheerleaders have a bit more room to...[come on] Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, a-Shake It. [Yeah, I know- shame on me]
There is consequently slightly less of it, but there is still a grassy "picnic area" behind home plate, which I would like to see families and fans and teams make more use made of.
* Other improvements at Kawasaki have included raising the scoreboard. Much more prominent and easier to see now. Just one problem: unfortunately the lights are just not powerful enough, so with the sun shining directly upon it it during much of the second half of the second game, it was impossible to see anything from the "Visitor" sideline.
When such times come (of course, exactly when depends on the time of year), perhaps it would help if the referee reminded the PA announcer to call out the time remaining each time the clock stopped, particularly say, in the last 3 minutes or so of each quarter. Fortunately it didn't turn out to be a factor in yesterday's 17-14 Bulls-Lions game- but it easily could have been.
* BTW seems like every time i see him officiate a game, Bill Passwaters is the umpire. Can't help wondering: is that because he likes it there, or do they put the gaijin in the officiating spot most likely to get caught up in the fray, or to get run over? [insert Yakety Sax footage here]
* I also think I have been seeing better officiating than in the past. Still some missed calls and bogus PI calls; and I have yet to witness a call for helmet-to-helmet contact in Japan. But it seems to be better informed, more decisive. There seem to be fewer of those confounded confabulations- all around, the zebras seem more sure of themselves in the midst of all those roaming Lions and Tigers and Bears.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Pushing throught the Dog Days
In the US, the football season actually begins in earnest in August. Very earnest. With two-a-days and summer practice in the mad race to prepare for the season in the hottest months of the year, it can be very grueling. Saw a letter/posting from a HS football player in America to which I am sure many of us can relate:
"Should I quit my high school football team?"
"This is my first year ever playing football, so I'm not really that good. I mainly joined because my parents wanted me to play a sport or join something. Practices are pretty hard, and it's not fun. I'm always too sore or tired to hang out with my friends, and it takes up a lot of my summer. I really don't wanna quit or be a quitter, but I don't know how much longer I can motivate myself to get through it."
I felt compelled to respond:
Football is not just a game. It is a test of personal courage and toughness and will. That is way more important than any awards or results on the scoreboard.
Over time, you will inevitably bond and make friends with other players on the team- 'war buddies'- in a way that only people who have gone through common hardships can.
It is difficult to get perspective sometimes- football entails a lot of practice and drilling and stress and pain and discomfort that could not be described as fun. And yes, August is the worst. The payoff comes much later.
But be aware that all the drilling and practice really is necessary, so that you won't need to think about all the things that go on in a game situation- you'll be able to just react, so things flow almost instinctively.
You have to look any for ways you can to see improvement- by measurement, or on video. This can help to motivate you. Ask your coach to give you something specific to work on, and ask for periodic evaluations and look to see improvement in that specific aspect.
Keep a journal of your experience- committing thoughts and experiences and resolutions to paper and looking back over it later can also help inspire you.
Pay more attention and be more vocal- when on the sidelines, when watching others in drills. This gets your 'mind in the game', and prepares you better for when you are in there.
Generally in life, the more you invest and commit to something, the more you'll get out of it.
Just take my word for it and know that you have a great opportunity you may not fully appreciate until later- unlike many other things, when you are older you won't have a chance to play and learn from the experience. Later in life, the things we usually regret are the things we had a chance to do, but didn't.
Good luck!
Any other comments or suggestions for players when they are feeling this way?
"Should I quit my high school football team?"
"This is my first year ever playing football, so I'm not really that good. I mainly joined because my parents wanted me to play a sport or join something. Practices are pretty hard, and it's not fun. I'm always too sore or tired to hang out with my friends, and it takes up a lot of my summer. I really don't wanna quit or be a quitter, but I don't know how much longer I can motivate myself to get through it."
I felt compelled to respond:
Football is not just a game. It is a test of personal courage and toughness and will. That is way more important than any awards or results on the scoreboard.
Over time, you will inevitably bond and make friends with other players on the team- 'war buddies'- in a way that only people who have gone through common hardships can.
It is difficult to get perspective sometimes- football entails a lot of practice and drilling and stress and pain and discomfort that could not be described as fun. And yes, August is the worst. The payoff comes much later.
But be aware that all the drilling and practice really is necessary, so that you won't need to think about all the things that go on in a game situation- you'll be able to just react, so things flow almost instinctively.
You have to look any for ways you can to see improvement- by measurement, or on video. This can help to motivate you. Ask your coach to give you something specific to work on, and ask for periodic evaluations and look to see improvement in that specific aspect.
Keep a journal of your experience- committing thoughts and experiences and resolutions to paper and looking back over it later can also help inspire you.
Pay more attention and be more vocal- when on the sidelines, when watching others in drills. This gets your 'mind in the game', and prepares you better for when you are in there.
Generally in life, the more you invest and commit to something, the more you'll get out of it.
Just take my word for it and know that you have a great opportunity you may not fully appreciate until later- unlike many other things, when you are older you won't have a chance to play and learn from the experience. Later in life, the things we usually regret are the things we had a chance to do, but didn't.
Good luck!
Any other comments or suggestions for players when they are feeling this way?
Monday, July 27, 2009
ND Japan Bowl
It was a surprising game in many ways. The great receivers for the Japan team never got loose for a long one. The much feared Noriaki Kinoshita ended up with only 3 catches, the longest for 14 yards on Curl route for a first down- and that was the extent of the damage he did to Notre Dame. The Fighting Irish did their fighting on the ground- they completed a grand total of one (1!) pass in the air that went for 7 yards (and was marked back 10 yards for holding on the play). The second half ofthe game, the Irish took control with their ground game, running the ball 49 times for 271 yards; breaking tackles numerous times. Jay Vickers was the MVP for the game, carrying 'the rock' 16 times for 139 yards and 1 TD, the longest a 77 yard run on an Inside Zone that he cut back and took nearly to the goal line, setting up a Tony Rice TD that made it 10-3.
Besides the problems handling a more physical Irish team, Japan's QB's (Takata and Sugawara) had significant trouble with the Notre Dame pass rush- they were unable to deliver the ball deep; suffered hurried and errant throws, and several dropped balls as well. As Notre Dame DC told me after the game- "that was our game plan; to really our DL loose. we told them they would have a lot of fun this week." Japan was 20-45 and 179 yards, with 3 interceptions and several sacks, including one safety early in the 3rd that seemed to take the wind out of their sails. Frankly speaking, intensity and emotion seemed to be missing from the Japan sideline for most of the game.
The crowd on the other hand, seemed to enjoy the game. The Notre Dame 'tailgate' BBQ party with free-flowing beer out in front of the Dome put many in a good mood, and the marching bands and various camera gimmicks- including the Kiss Cam- created a fun atmosphere; though the animated scoreboard shorts interrupted the replays way too often.
Besides the problems handling a more physical Irish team, Japan's QB's (Takata and Sugawara) had significant trouble with the Notre Dame pass rush- they were unable to deliver the ball deep; suffered hurried and errant throws, and several dropped balls as well. As Notre Dame DC told me after the game- "that was our game plan; to really our DL loose. we told them they would have a lot of fun this week." Japan was 20-45 and 179 yards, with 3 interceptions and several sacks, including one safety early in the 3rd that seemed to take the wind out of their sails. Frankly speaking, intensity and emotion seemed to be missing from the Japan sideline for most of the game.
The crowd on the other hand, seemed to enjoy the game. The Notre Dame 'tailgate' BBQ party with free-flowing beer out in front of the Dome put many in a good mood, and the marching bands and various camera gimmicks- including the Kiss Cam- created a fun atmosphere; though the animated scoreboard shorts interrupted the replays way too often.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Thursday
With two days to go in game week, Thursday combined an ND press practice; a press conference with coaches and players from each team; and a clinic outside for younger Japanese players.
Members of the press received white ND Japan Bowl caps in lieu of badges today- a nice touch. Practice (in helmets and shorts) went more smoothly, with the defense looking pretty good working through calls and assignments. Ambrose Wooden took all the snaps on offense, as Tony Rice had an ice pack on his leg and #2 QB Gary Godsey was still limping. Things have improved, but to me honestly still seemed a bit too slow- going through pass progressions for example- to handle the Japanese defense come Saturday. We shall see...
Team speed was also an issue at the press conference- Holtz, Tim Brown, and Tony Rice mentioning Japan's team speed, and Japan Coach Kiyoyuki Mori mentioning how they went with younger players and (even) more speed than the World Cup team in 2007. The age of the Notre Dame roster worried them- former ND and NFL receiver Tim Brown begged off on playing, saying he is "over forty", although Kris Haines is on the roster as a WR, and celebrated his 52nd birthday(!) on Thursday.
Holtz repeatedly mentioned his concerns about the skill positions- problems about age and condition of the skill players for Notre Dame; and the ability of the Japanese squad. There were eyebrows raised and looks exchanged on the ND side when they heard WR Noriaki Kinoshita speak of his status on the Atlanta Falcons practice squad. Kinoshita reminded me of Ichiro Suzuki speaking of the first World Baseball Classic in 2006, that in spite of playing abroad, identifying himself as Japanese, and the importance of such games in terms of national pride. Many were also surprised to learn that Kinoshita has been playing twenty years now- since the age of five in the Chestnut League in Kansai.
However Holtz- quite notorious for his tendency to play up the strength of the opposition and his fears for his own squad- may have strained credulity just a bit when asked to evaluate the quality of Japan's football. Reasoning that the 2007 US World Cup team was made up of Division IAA players, and that Japan nearly won the World Cup game , losing on a blocked field goal in double overtime, Coach Holtz told the press conference it was the Japanese team was the equivalent of a Division I [mid-major] football team, such as East Carolina (coached by his son Skip). While the quality of Japanese football is is surprisingly good and continues to steadily improve, the reality is the US World Cup team in 2007 was comprised of post-graduate players of a geographical mix from all college divisions, including NAIA and even three or four Division I players, who had used up their eligibility, and were not drafted or signed as free agents with the NFL.
I had a chance to ask the final question at the press conference, which was for Coach Mori of the Japan team: to prepare for this game, what video did you look at? Mori, who is another one who can be wily, but also be effusive, replied that they looked at numerous things, including the various coordinator's most recent coaching jobs; but he made it a point to mention he got somewhat side-tracked watching the classic 1988 matchup between ND and the Miami Hurricanes during that national championship season for the Irish, a a thrilling 31-30 battle. Holtz and Tony Rice both beamed. Tim Brown had graduated a year earlier.
Coach Holtz greeted me at the bottom of the stairs on the way out, saying "thank you"- not really sure if that was for just being there, or asking the question...
Members of the press received white ND Japan Bowl caps in lieu of badges today- a nice touch. Practice (in helmets and shorts) went more smoothly, with the defense looking pretty good working through calls and assignments. Ambrose Wooden took all the snaps on offense, as Tony Rice had an ice pack on his leg and #2 QB Gary Godsey was still limping. Things have improved, but to me honestly still seemed a bit too slow- going through pass progressions for example- to handle the Japanese defense come Saturday. We shall see...
Team speed was also an issue at the press conference- Holtz, Tim Brown, and Tony Rice mentioning Japan's team speed, and Japan Coach Kiyoyuki Mori mentioning how they went with younger players and (even) more speed than the World Cup team in 2007. The age of the Notre Dame roster worried them- former ND and NFL receiver Tim Brown begged off on playing, saying he is "over forty", although Kris Haines is on the roster as a WR, and celebrated his 52nd birthday(!) on Thursday.
Holtz repeatedly mentioned his concerns about the skill positions- problems about age and condition of the skill players for Notre Dame; and the ability of the Japanese squad. There were eyebrows raised and looks exchanged on the ND side when they heard WR Noriaki Kinoshita speak of his status on the Atlanta Falcons practice squad. Kinoshita reminded me of Ichiro Suzuki speaking of the first World Baseball Classic in 2006, that in spite of playing abroad, identifying himself as Japanese, and the importance of such games in terms of national pride. Many were also surprised to learn that Kinoshita has been playing twenty years now- since the age of five in the Chestnut League in Kansai.
However Holtz- quite notorious for his tendency to play up the strength of the opposition and his fears for his own squad- may have strained credulity just a bit when asked to evaluate the quality of Japan's football. Reasoning that the 2007 US World Cup team was made up of Division IAA players, and that Japan nearly won the World Cup game , losing on a blocked field goal in double overtime, Coach Holtz told the press conference it was the Japanese team was the equivalent of a Division I [mid-major] football team, such as East Carolina (coached by his son Skip). While the quality of Japanese football is is surprisingly good and continues to steadily improve, the reality is the US World Cup team in 2007 was comprised of post-graduate players of a geographical mix from all college divisions, including NAIA and even three or four Division I players, who had used up their eligibility, and were not drafted or signed as free agents with the NFL.
I had a chance to ask the final question at the press conference, which was for Coach Mori of the Japan team: to prepare for this game, what video did you look at? Mori, who is another one who can be wily, but also be effusive, replied that they looked at numerous things, including the various coordinator's most recent coaching jobs; but he made it a point to mention he got somewhat side-tracked watching the classic 1988 matchup between ND and the Miami Hurricanes during that national championship season for the Irish, a a thrilling 31-30 battle. Holtz and Tony Rice both beamed. Tim Brown had graduated a year earlier.
Coach Holtz greeted me at the bottom of the stairs on the way out, saying "thank you"- not really sure if that was for just being there, or asking the question...
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Irish Invasion
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish "Legends" alumni team is here, preparing for their Saturday matchup versus the Japanese national team in Tokyo Dome.
A light rain fell on the practice field Tuesday, at Nihon U. The Irish defense appeared to be well ahead of the offense- not surprising early in the week of a game like this. Injuries also affected proceedings quite a bit, and toward the end of practice there were several players going both ways- including Ambrose Wooden (who normally lines up at Safety)- taking many snaps at QB.
At age 72, Coach Lou Holtz may have started slowly, but by the end of practice, he had taken off his sweater and jacket, and was really 'getting after it'. QB Tony Rice was having a bit of trouble throwing the ball, and received a large dose of Holtz's scorn. But it didn't seem to trouble Rice, who in comments to the press afterward was understanding to the point of magnanimity. "It started coming back last week when we started practicing. I am just proud that he's given me the opportunity to come over here...He said some things I haven't heard in a long time...some of this is like de ja vous!"
"I am going to be him on the football field: just know my plays; know what I have to do; make sure I go through my progressions and just enjoy myself"
Practice continues this week (including a clinic for players and coaches on Thursday). Kickoff is at 4 PM on Saturday.
A light rain fell on the practice field Tuesday, at Nihon U. The Irish defense appeared to be well ahead of the offense- not surprising early in the week of a game like this. Injuries also affected proceedings quite a bit, and toward the end of practice there were several players going both ways- including Ambrose Wooden (who normally lines up at Safety)- taking many snaps at QB.
At age 72, Coach Lou Holtz may have started slowly, but by the end of practice, he had taken off his sweater and jacket, and was really 'getting after it'. QB Tony Rice was having a bit of trouble throwing the ball, and received a large dose of Holtz's scorn. But it didn't seem to trouble Rice, who in comments to the press afterward was understanding to the point of magnanimity. "It started coming back last week when we started practicing. I am just proud that he's given me the opportunity to come over here...He said some things I haven't heard in a long time...some of this is like de ja vous!"
"I am going to be him on the football field: just know my plays; know what I have to do; make sure I go through my progressions and just enjoy myself"
Practice continues this week (including a clinic for players and coaches on Thursday). Kickoff is at 4 PM on Saturday.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Warming Up
It was a muggy day in Kawasaki on Sunday, though by later in the day things cooled off a bit and a nice breeze picked up.
After a rather sluggish first half, Team Japan sharpened up after halftime, and dominated a clearly outmatched All-Nihon Phoenix squad in a tune-up game for the Notre Dame Japan Bowl coming up on July 25th.
The Phoenix suffered from a harassed and erratic passing attack- 3 interceptions and 25-52 in the air for 220 yards passing, and gained 57 yen yards rushing. They were only able to manage three drives of more than six plays.
Team Japan had even less on the ground- 45 yards on 25 carries, yet amassed 572 yards in total offense, 527 yards in the air. Panasonic Impulse QB Tetsuo Takata threw for 324 yards including 3 TDs and no interceptions, and was 21-29 on the day. They struck immediately on the first play from scrimmage- a 70 yard TD pass from Takata to Noriaki Kinoshita. Kinoshita had five catches for 118 yards and two TDs, and Takata's Impulse teammate Shouei Hasegawa had four catches for 75 yards and two TDs. Shun Sugawara was 7-9 for 162 yards and a TD. Koushi Moriya (now playing with the Fujitsu Fronteirs) had four catches for 51 yards and 1 TD for the Phoenix.
Kinoshita, the former NFL Europe standout, is currently training at Ritsumeikan, his alma mater. He will be working out with the New York franchise of the incipient UFL come September.
The Phoenix squad included many Nichidai alumni as well as current players. The Japan Team consisted of 84 members, most of them from the usual suspects: Impulse, Fujitsu, Kajima Deers, Obic Seagulls, Asahi Beer Silver Stars, and the Sagamihara Rise (now X-3, but formerly the X-1 Onward Skylarks); with a sprinkling of some other X-League and top university teams. All but a dozen of the players are in their twenties, but Impulse DL Yasuo Wakisaka turned forty in May. Waseda U. RB Tomokazu Sueyoshi is 19. The squad will be cut down to 60 players for the Notre Dame Japan Bowl game on 7/25.
My sympathy for those hardworking Team Japan cheerleaders, who were dressed in black training clothes in the hot sun, though that didn't seem to stop them from putting out their usual fine effort.
I must confess I really enjoyed hearing the sound of live music at a football game, as the Phoenix fortunately brought their school band and cheerleaders.
Also evident was continued construction on Kawasaki Stadium to expand seating (though unfortunately this cuts further into the grass area I would like to see used as a picnic area). This is indicative of Kawasaki's commitment to football.
After a rather sluggish first half, Team Japan sharpened up after halftime, and dominated a clearly outmatched All-Nihon Phoenix squad in a tune-up game for the Notre Dame Japan Bowl coming up on July 25th.
The Phoenix suffered from a harassed and erratic passing attack- 3 interceptions and 25-52 in the air for 220 yards passing, and gained 57 yen yards rushing. They were only able to manage three drives of more than six plays.
Team Japan had even less on the ground- 45 yards on 25 carries, yet amassed 572 yards in total offense, 527 yards in the air. Panasonic Impulse QB Tetsuo Takata threw for 324 yards including 3 TDs and no interceptions, and was 21-29 on the day. They struck immediately on the first play from scrimmage- a 70 yard TD pass from Takata to Noriaki Kinoshita. Kinoshita had five catches for 118 yards and two TDs, and Takata's Impulse teammate Shouei Hasegawa had four catches for 75 yards and two TDs. Shun Sugawara was 7-9 for 162 yards and a TD. Koushi Moriya (now playing with the Fujitsu Fronteirs) had four catches for 51 yards and 1 TD for the Phoenix.
Kinoshita, the former NFL Europe standout, is currently training at Ritsumeikan, his alma mater. He will be working out with the New York franchise of the incipient UFL come September.
The Phoenix squad included many Nichidai alumni as well as current players. The Japan Team consisted of 84 members, most of them from the usual suspects: Impulse, Fujitsu, Kajima Deers, Obic Seagulls, Asahi Beer Silver Stars, and the Sagamihara Rise (now X-3, but formerly the X-1 Onward Skylarks); with a sprinkling of some other X-League and top university teams. All but a dozen of the players are in their twenties, but Impulse DL Yasuo Wakisaka turned forty in May. Waseda U. RB Tomokazu Sueyoshi is 19. The squad will be cut down to 60 players for the Notre Dame Japan Bowl game on 7/25.
My sympathy for those hardworking Team Japan cheerleaders, who were dressed in black training clothes in the hot sun, though that didn't seem to stop them from putting out their usual fine effort.
I must confess I really enjoyed hearing the sound of live music at a football game, as the Phoenix fortunately brought their school band and cheerleaders.
Also evident was continued construction on Kawasaki Stadium to expand seating (though unfortunately this cuts further into the grass area I would like to see used as a picnic area). This is indicative of Kawasaki's commitment to football.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Seeing through the Iris
Yesterday, I attended the Iris Bowl- the championship game of the Urban Football League spring tournament at the 江戸川区陸上競技場. Because of the running track around the field, the stands are rather far from the field, but it is a nice facility, and the lack of rain, and the nice breeze off the water made it a pleasant afternoon.
The game offered some excitement, but the BattleHawks were handily defeated by the Roebucks. Both teams have a rather long history for Japanese teams (the Roebucks were formed in 1974, the Battlehawks in 1981).
While ball handling mistakes no doubt played a part, depth was certainly also a factor in the one-sided nature of the game. This is all too often the case with football games here. Unfortunately game and season results directly proportional to roster size: the team with the larger roster usually wins. Size definitely does matter. Of course quality is also certainly important- particularly as we rise to the highest levels. But without a certain critical mass- quite literally- it becomes difficult to establish much of anything. Many teams are simply in need of warm bodies.
The nature of football- with its requirements of specialization, the possibilities of injury, and the need for numbers to properly prepare and practice, means that accumulating greater numbers is important to the health and survival of most teams, save perhaps a few elite Division 1 teams.
This is essential to help grow the game of football across a broader base. So to help with this issue, I will use some of the resources of this website and help players and teams to find each other. I invite you to submit information to accomplish this.
At the game, I met a fascinating team called the U59ers (technically under 59, but in fact anyone over 40 is welcome). More on them later...
The game offered some excitement, but the BattleHawks were handily defeated by the Roebucks. Both teams have a rather long history for Japanese teams (the Roebucks were formed in 1974, the Battlehawks in 1981).
While ball handling mistakes no doubt played a part, depth was certainly also a factor in the one-sided nature of the game. This is all too often the case with football games here. Unfortunately game and season results directly proportional to roster size: the team with the larger roster usually wins. Size definitely does matter. Of course quality is also certainly important- particularly as we rise to the highest levels. But without a certain critical mass- quite literally- it becomes difficult to establish much of anything. Many teams are simply in need of warm bodies.
The nature of football- with its requirements of specialization, the possibilities of injury, and the need for numbers to properly prepare and practice, means that accumulating greater numbers is important to the health and survival of most teams, save perhaps a few elite Division 1 teams.
This is essential to help grow the game of football across a broader base. So to help with this issue, I will use some of the resources of this website and help players and teams to find each other. I invite you to submit information to accomplish this.
At the game, I met a fascinating team called the U59ers (technically under 59, but in fact anyone over 40 is welcome). More on them later...
Sunday, June 14, 2009
HS Football Japan style
On a nice day for football, the Kanto High School Tournament Semi-Finals were held at Komazawa Dai-ni Stadium. While the first game was not close, in spite of some nice throws and catches for Waseda late in the game. In the second game St. Paul's Rushers managed a hard fought 16-10 victory over Komaba Fighting Gorillas.
The Rushers scored on their first play from scrimmage on a well-thrown deep crossing route to the TE for a 69 yard TD. The Fighting Gorillas responded a few plays later in their first offensive series with a 63 yard run that made it 7-all.
In the second quarter, the Rushers were turned away at the Gorilla goal line. But on the very next play, the Gorilla RB was tackled in the end zone to make it 9-7. St. Paul's subsequent drive resulted in a TD to make it 16-7. Both teams moved the ball, but interceptions and key mistakes kept the score down. Several Fighting Gorilla "Wish Passes" were thrown into double coverage. Komaba also had problems in the kicking game, including a muffed punt near the goal line.
That said, I was often impressed by the quality of play and overall effort by the high school gridders. I had an opportunity to sped a bit of time in the stands, and I must say I was really impressed by the passion of the fans present- especially the mothers, who were sometimes quite astute in their appraisals of what was taking place on the field, and quite vocal about what they thought about it.
The Rushers scored on their first play from scrimmage on a well-thrown deep crossing route to the TE for a 69 yard TD. The Fighting Gorillas responded a few plays later in their first offensive series with a 63 yard run that made it 7-all.
In the second quarter, the Rushers were turned away at the Gorilla goal line. But on the very next play, the Gorilla RB was tackled in the end zone to make it 9-7. St. Paul's subsequent drive resulted in a TD to make it 16-7. Both teams moved the ball, but interceptions and key mistakes kept the score down. Several Fighting Gorilla "Wish Passes" were thrown into double coverage. Komaba also had problems in the kicking game, including a muffed punt near the goal line.
That said, I was often impressed by the quality of play and overall effort by the high school gridders. I had an opportunity to sped a bit of time in the stands, and I must say I was really impressed by the passion of the fans present- especially the mothers, who were sometimes quite astute in their appraisals of what was taking place on the field, and quite vocal about what they thought about it.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
promoting american football
I was at Amino Vital over the weekend and saw several spring college games including Ritsumeikan's and Keio's blowouts of Tokai and Tokyo Gakudai, and a game between Teikyo and Hitotsubashi that was much closer, at least until later in the 4th quarter.
Meanwhile, there was a large family event going on at Ajinomoto Stadium, and the "Big Flea Market" going on just outside the gates.
This of course, was a good chance to expose and promote football to families attending. Indeed, inside the gates of Amino Vital, there was a popular attraction with mini footballs for kids to try to throw through a hole and volunteers instructing them- that was fun; and a table with information on American football, and helmets for kids to try on a get Polaroid pictures taking. A nice start. I'd like to see more of this, and perhaps a bit more aggressive promotion (e.g. sending volunteers (perhaps in Teams Japan jerseys and helmets) through the flea market, and outside Tobitakyu Station and Ajinomoto Stadium. Perhaps there are other attractions for the kids and families as well. One of the things that makes football special in the US is the tail gate picnic atmosphere that I think would be fantastic to adopt here. I hope to post more about this subject of promoting football in Japan in the near future, and welcome any comments and suggestions you may have.
More needs to be done to draw families into becoming fans, so let's applaud that effort, and really hope to see more, and more often.
Meanwhile, there was a large family event going on at Ajinomoto Stadium, and the "Big Flea Market" going on just outside the gates.
This of course, was a good chance to expose and promote football to families attending. Indeed, inside the gates of Amino Vital, there was a popular attraction with mini footballs for kids to try to throw through a hole and volunteers instructing them- that was fun; and a table with information on American football, and helmets for kids to try on a get Polaroid pictures taking. A nice start. I'd like to see more of this, and perhaps a bit more aggressive promotion (e.g. sending volunteers (perhaps in Teams Japan jerseys and helmets) through the flea market, and outside Tobitakyu Station and Ajinomoto Stadium. Perhaps there are other attractions for the kids and families as well. One of the things that makes football special in the US is the tail gate picnic atmosphere that I think would be fantastic to adopt here. I hope to post more about this subject of promoting football in Japan in the near future, and welcome any comments and suggestions you may have.
More needs to be done to draw families into becoming fans, so let's applaud that effort, and really hope to see more, and more often.
times are changing
Football in Japan have finally updated the clock procedures to match the NCAA rules- the so called 40/25 clock. Normally 40 seconds to run a play; 25 second when the clock is stopped. When the ball goes out of bounds (in all but the last two minutes of each half), the clock stops only until the ball is set and the official gives the "Ready For Play" signal. This was done to speed up games in the NCAA, which have been exceeding 3 hours.
The actual results of the rule? For one, it will make it easier for a team with a lead to run out the clock, as they have 40 seconds to snap the ball now, rather than 25 seconds plus whatever time it took officials to set the ball. Which points to one of the reasons why it is probably a good rule, as previously the officials were often quite inconsistent in the time it took to setting the ball.
Some may argue that 40 seconds is a bit longer than teams need- while 30 seconds may be too fast, perhaps it should be 35 or 36 seconds. I don't know.
What I would like to see rather than- or in addition to- stopping the clock when the ball goes out of bounds would be stopping the clock temporarily on incomplete passes. As it currently stands, the game clock stops on all incomplete passes. I think this has resulted in a large variation in the length of football games in recent years. Running plays stop the clock far less often, especially now with the out of bounds clock rules. In NCAA games where some teams pass 50 or 60 times each, that can possibly mean stopping the clock fifty to a hundred times for incomplete passes. Some (60 minute) games now approach four hours in length. Making the timing consistent run or pass, would result in games of more uniform time length.
Irregular lengths of games certainly creates problems for television, as it throws off programming and paid advertising schedules. Scheduling for facilities, teams, and fans can be improved when games are of more uniform length. Just as importantly (though I am not aware of any statistics yet), one may surmise that longer games quite probably lead to more health and safety issues. Longer time on the field- particularly in hot or poor weather conditions- increases the exposure to injury or other medical issues.
The actual results of the rule? For one, it will make it easier for a team with a lead to run out the clock, as they have 40 seconds to snap the ball now, rather than 25 seconds plus whatever time it took officials to set the ball. Which points to one of the reasons why it is probably a good rule, as previously the officials were often quite inconsistent in the time it took to setting the ball.
Some may argue that 40 seconds is a bit longer than teams need- while 30 seconds may be too fast, perhaps it should be 35 or 36 seconds. I don't know.
What I would like to see rather than- or in addition to- stopping the clock when the ball goes out of bounds would be stopping the clock temporarily on incomplete passes. As it currently stands, the game clock stops on all incomplete passes. I think this has resulted in a large variation in the length of football games in recent years. Running plays stop the clock far less often, especially now with the out of bounds clock rules. In NCAA games where some teams pass 50 or 60 times each, that can possibly mean stopping the clock fifty to a hundred times for incomplete passes. Some (60 minute) games now approach four hours in length. Making the timing consistent run or pass, would result in games of more uniform time length.
Irregular lengths of games certainly creates problems for television, as it throws off programming and paid advertising schedules. Scheduling for facilities, teams, and fans can be improved when games are of more uniform length. Just as importantly (though I am not aware of any statistics yet), one may surmise that longer games quite probably lead to more health and safety issues. Longer time on the field- particularly in hot or poor weather conditions- increases the exposure to injury or other medical issues.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Spring Fever
Spring always brings new dreams and new hopes. For football it brings new people, new teams, a new season.
While I have been a way from the blog, I have been doing some research and writing on the book. I decided that in order to make the work complete, visit or two to Kansai is in order.
So please, any contacts and suggestions there are welcome.
I also hope to get an opportunity to coach football again on some basis or another...really miss it.
While I have been a way from the blog, I have been doing some research and writing on the book. I decided that in order to make the work complete, visit or two to Kansai is in order.
So please, any contacts and suggestions there are welcome.
I also hope to get an opportunity to coach football again on some basis or another...really miss it.
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