After a short stay for their pre-competition training camp, the Japan National Football Team’s visit with Cessnock City Council has come to an end.
A short ceremony was held before the players’ last training session at the Cessnock Sportsground Thursday morning, including a special send off from the Hunter Valley Zoo.
Cessnock Mayor, Councillor Bob Pynsent, signifying their Asian Cup journey and their time here in Cessnock, presented each player with a limited edition boomerang.
Only 50 limited edition boomerangs were made—hand painted by internationally renowned local artist, Uncle Les Elvin.
“Having the Japanese National Team stay with us here in Cessnock this past week has been an absolute honour and privilege,” said Cr Pynsent.
“On behalf of the Council and myself, we wish you the very best of luck in the 2015 AFC Asian Cup competition, we will be behind Samurai Blue every step of the way.”
Head Coach of the Japan National Team, Javier Aguirre, was thrilled at how smoothly their stay has gone, thanking the Mayor at the event.
“Great city, great people, thank you.”
The Samurai Blue are the current reigning Asian Cup champions.
