On October 18, 2008, Canon held the “Canon Enjoy the J. League Program,” as one of the company’s social contribution activities, at Ajinomoto Stadium in Chofu City, Tokyo. This time the program received the cooperation of the Tokyo Verdy soccer team. It invited disabled children living in Tokyo to tour the pitch, interact with the players and watch the match.

Touring the pitch enabled the children to experience for themselves the spacious stadium and beautiful grass pitch. Tokyo Verdy mascot “Verdy-kun” was also there to entertain the children.

Tokyo Verdy Ikuro Tanaka, Advertising Manager talked to the children about soccer using equipment such as a player’s uniform, spiked shoes and soccer balls and, by also mixing in quiz questions, familiarized the children with the Tokyo Verdy team.

Thereafter, in the exchange with the players portion of the program, defender Takumi Wada and midfielder Tsuyoshi Yoshitake were joined by surprise guest Ruy Ramos, Tokyo Verdy Executive Director. The three graciously answered the animated questions of the children. There was also a game of rock-paper-scissors between the children and players Wada and Yoshitake, and the time spent was filled with fun and excitement.

Canon employees, who volunteered by responding to an advance recruitment, provided support in the running of the program. They interacted with the children and their attendants by helping to guide them around the stadium and to take photos.