Some Makuhari International School students with the Chiba Lotte Marines. MAKUHARI INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
Makuhari International School (probably the youngest international school in Japan), already works hard to support and establish good connections with the local community in Chiba prefecture, inviting members into the school, as well as organizing a large number of educational field trips during the academic year.
November 23 was a great example of the latter when the school’s own cheerleading team, “The Dolphins,” performed to rapturous applause at the Makuhari Baytown Festival. More recently the school was delighted to be visited by several star players of the victorious Japan Series winners — the Chiba Lotte Marines.
As some of Makuhari’s students have fathers who play for various rugby teams in Chiba, the school has many connections in the area, but the Lotte Marines remains a favourite. The whole school has been invited to evening games on more than one occasion.
During a full day of activities, the children not only performed songs and dances for the Marines, but some of the more enthusiastic children also had the opportunity to participate in some very special baseball coaching sessions.
The school was also proud to host “Msplash,” the official Marines cheerleading group that danced for the children; Msplash also watched a show by the school’s ‘Dolphins,’ and offered advice on how to develop their performances.
Children later gave speeches to congratulate the Lotte Marines’ recent win, and were entertained by mascots. They were then presented with 500 specially designed baseballs, each one customized with the school logo.
School staff and children had a lovely day and were proud to take part in such a fun event. Having the whole day filmed made it even more exciting for the children.
Interested parties can be kept informed about exciting activities such as these by going to http://www.twitter.com/Makuhari_School.
— PAUL ROGERS
