Global
Global
The ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup™ 2024 football clinic at Gelora Bung Karno Football Field C, Jakarta, on November 2 was a special occasion to be remembered by dozens of young Indonesian football talents and their coaches.
Young players and coaches from Tunas Sepakbola Nusantara Football Academy took part in the event that was part of Mitsubishi Electric's CSR activities, alongside the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup™ 2024 Trophy Tour, to catch a glimpse of the Okada Method, a unique training approach developed by Takeshi Okada.
There was a special appearance by the legendary coach himself, who famously guided Japan national team to their first-ever World Cup appearance in 1998 and later leading Samurai Blue to the round of 16 at the 2010 World Cup.
Isao Dobashi, head of youth coaching at J3 League team FC Imabari in Japan, led the clinic which consisted of a series of fun yet challenging drills for the kids.
Okada Method focuses on building a foundation that nurtures players’ abilities to think critically on the field while also mastering fundamental skills. This methodology is rooted in the belief that a well-rounded player is essential for success at all levels of competitive football.
Former Indonesian national team defender Ryuji Utomo who attended the event was impressed by the approach and he underlines the importance for the kids to be able to love the game and enjoy themselves.
“I'm happy to see the kids enjoying football. The Okada Method that I saw earlier combined football intelligence and techniques, and the most important thing is the kids could have fun and enjoy their training,” Ryuji said. He added: “I think that is very important, especially at such a young age, first and foremost is you have to be able to love the game. You have to be passionate about football, dare to dream, and be committed to that dream.”
The football clinic in Jakarta is part of the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup™ 2024 Trophy Tour which will conclude in Manila on November 9. The main tournament starts on December 8, with Indonesia competing in Group B alongside Vietnam, the Philippines, Myanmar, and Laos.
