J2 soccer team Mito Hollyhock has created a new soccer team made up of people with disabilities, and a ceremony to celebrate its establishment was held on the 11th.
The newly established soccer team is ``Mito Holyhock Knosphere Bide'', which was created by Mito Holyhock taking over the management of the local soccer team for people with disabilities, ``Ibaraki Mito Club.''
On the 11th, a founding ceremony was held at Hollyhock's training base in Shiro-cho, Ibaraki Prefecture, where 22 players received brand-new uniforms with smiles.
Afterwards, they played a commemorative match against the soccer team of Mito High School for Special Needs Education, and showed a lively performance.
Sports for the disabled often face issues in terms of funding and guidance, but by becoming affiliated with a professional team, more stable management is expected.
Captain Shota Nishioka (20) said, ``I'm happy to wear the Holyhock uniform. I want to enjoy playing soccer and aim to become a strong team.''
The team plans to continue recruiting new players, and Mito HolyHock general manager Takuro Nishimura said, ``We're happy to have new members.We want to develop the club together with the community.''