🏆 Mako Sharks Football Academy Heads to Japan for Kashima Antlers U11 Tournament!
Mako Sharks Football Academy is honored to participate in the Kashima Antlers U11 Tournament this February. This prestigious competition will feature 32 teams, including professional academy teams such as Kashima Antlers, Mito Hollyhock, and Montedio Yamagata, along with top regional teams from across Japan. Notably, Saginuma SC, known for developing players like Shuichi Gonda, Ko Itakura, Kaoru Mitoma, and Ao Tanaka, will be competing as well. Additionally, the 2023 Japan U12 National Champions, Trianello Machida, will be part of the tournament.
Most of our players for this tournament are from last year’s U9 squad, a team that delivered outstanding performances throughout the U9 league and tournaments, finishing as runners-up in Auckland’s largest U9 Cup competition. While we are proud of these achievements, we recognize that there is much to learn and improve on the international stage.
From a youth development perspective, this tournament is more than just a competition—it is a valuable opportunity for learning and growth. Competing against elite teams allows us to observe, adapt, and evolve, ultimately striving to develop our players to reach higher levels.
We are grateful for this incredible experience and approach this challenge with humility and determination. At Mako Sharks Football Academy, we remain committed to nurturing young talents, embracing every challenge as a chance to improve and grow.
We warmly invite parents, fans, and supporters to continue following and supporting our journey. Together, let’s learn from each experience and take steps toward an even brighter future!