I want to play in the stadium I admire.On a day worth remembering, I want to meet my favorite player.I want to create opportunities for my students to interact with professional players.Aren't there many people who harbor such dreams?At Rakuten Group, they have launched a project called "Dreams Come True," where they collect "Dreams" from Rakuten members and actually make them happen.This time, who was able to make that dream come true...?

Somewhere in Tokyo in early June. In the gymnasium, the lively voices of the children were echoing. The ones who had gathered were the girls’ team of Umegaoka Mini Basketball, who are active mainly in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture.This time, the one who won the “Dreams Come True” was Coach Suzuki, who leads this place. Upon knowing about the “Dreams Come True” project, I thought “I definitely want Rui Machida to watch my student’s basketball game!” and  applied.  Coach Suzuki’s dream came true in the form of a “special clinic” by Machida, who finished the season.

After the children finished their warm-up, Machida appeared while they were having a meeting before practice.The gymnasium is enveloped in a big round of applause.In front of their admired athletes, the children are a bit nervous.When Machida finished his greeting, Coach Suzuki said, “Since our team has many small-sized players, there are many cases where we can’t win even if we initiate one-on-one plays. The opponent’s cover also comes immediately, preventing us from scoring. In order to break through such a situation, I would like you to teach me about the movement of the drive and the play of those who do not have the ball.” she consulted about their concerns. “Let’s get started with a practical 5-on-5 format,” and with that, the clinic promptly began.

While observing the movements of the athletes, Maeda discovered a certain problem.When gathering the children, she adviced, “Not only is playing basketball important, but communication between players is also crucial. If the player who initiated the drive is surrounded, the free player should move to a space where they can easily receive a pass, and call out to make their position known.  Even if you can’t win with speed or technique, you can surpass your opponent if you can communicate.” Then, players who had not been able to follow each other well gradually became able to voice out, and we started to see coordinated plays. Indeed, children absorb information quickly.

Occasionally, Machida explains while holding a ball in one hand and a microphone in the other. The children were watching it, their eyes sparkling with excitement. A special space exclusive to Umegaoka Mini Basketball and Machida, different from usual practice.It must have certainly become an unforgettable memory for the children that will last a lifetime.In the question and answer session after practical training, there were questions from the children to Machida.

——When you fail in a match, how do you switch your mood?

Machida:  “Above all, I strive to make up for mistakes during the match. Basketball is a sport with intense alternation between offense and defense, so for example, even if you make a mistake on offense, you can immediately cover it with the subsequent defense. I believe it’s important to not get discouraged even if you fail, and to quickly switch your mindset.”

——What is the most important thing as a point guard?

Machida: “Since I hold the position of the team’s commander, if I falter, the whole team falls apart.No matter how strong the opponent is, I always aim to challenge with confidence. However, if you let your feelings get the better of you, you won’t be able to play well. So, I try to keep my mind calm, yet continue to possess a passionate heart.”

——Are you still playing after 10 years?

Machida: “10 years later!? 41 years old, huh~ (laughs).I haven’t decided how long I will continue, but I want to strive to keep going at the top level for a long time, while taking care of my condition.”

After the group photo session, the children who received autographs from Machida were brimming with smiles. After interacting with Machida, what kind of dreams might these girls have envisioned? Surely, it will undoubtedly lead to the future of the basketball world.

Machida:  “It was my first time teaching basketball to children like this, so I was nervous.I have consciously avoided discussing technical terms and complex tactics, intending to communicate in a way that is as understandable as possible.I would be glad if you could apply this to your regular practice and matches.However, while we discussed practical matters today, I believe the most important thing is enjoying basketball at heart.I understand there may be tough and challenging times, but I hope you always keep enjoying basketball and continue to give your best.When I was in elementary school, if this project had existed, I probably would have asked to play with a professional player. That’s why I want to increase these kinds of opportunities in the future.”

Coach Suzuki: “I applied for ‘Dreams Come True’ with the hope that Machida would take a look at my students. When I received the notification of winning over the phone, I was like “Whaaaat!”!It felt like that (laughs).Although I was nervous throughout since I had applied on my own, it was nice to see that the kids seemed to enjoy themselves, playing more lively than usual.I feel like my motivation has skyrocketed.We are grateful that despite his busy schedule, Machida took the time to pay attention to each and every child.I am rooting for you and praying for your further success.My dream came true with this project, but I want to support the dreams of children in the future.Even though many children enjoy sports when they are young, as they grow older, many of them tend to drift away from sports.I want to create an environment where those children can return whenever they want.”

Suzuki Coach’s dream of “I want  a professional basketball player to teach  my student’s basketball !” is connected to the future dreams of the children.At Rakuten Group, we are supporting dreams that anyone can have.What kind of dream will come true next ? I would love to hear about your dreams.

Click here for the ‘Dreams Come True’ site

TEXT: Kodai Wada
PHOTO: Teppei Hori
EDIT: Yohsuke Watanabe (IN FOCUS)