Sports x English Day: 30 Munakata Kids Meet English Rangers from 8 Countries

Munakata, Fukuoka – On October 12, the gymnasium of Jōyama Junior High School in Munakata City was filled with running, laughing, and English. The Sports x English Day event gave 30 local elementary school children (grades 3 to 6) the chance to use the English they learn in school, while playing basketball and soccer with university students from eight countries: the United States, Indonesia, the Philippines, Brazil, Russia, Kenya, Lesotho, and Nigeria.

The event was planned and organized by GHJ International, and sponsored by Munakata Kids University, the community-based career education project run by the Munakata City government. Twenty visiting university students training to become English teachers, known locally as the “English Rangers,” coached every activity, teaching real English expressions through passing drills, shooting games, and team sports.

The children needed no textbook. Commands came in English, and within the hour everyone was answering, shouting, and cheering in English. One participant said, “At first I had no idea what they were saying, but after an hour I could understand, and it was fun. Next time I want to try different games too.”

GHJ International President Guy Healy, who helped plan and operate the event, said: “Speaking directly with foreigners builds confidence. Building the children’s confidence and motivation was today’s goal, and I was moved when they told us at the end that they had fun. Everyone worked so hard. My hope is that they felt English is not something you study, but a way for people to connect with people.”

GHJ International thanks Munakata City, Munakata Kids University, the English Rangers, and every family who joined us. We look forward to the next Sports x English Day!