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Japanese Canadian Hockey Team
In July 2000, a hockey team made up of players of Japanese descent headed to Japan to play against Japanese teams. The brainchild of Dan Nomura and Ken Takeuchi, Team 2000 was formed with two primary goals in mind – to introduce players to their cultural birthright, and to develop future leaders in the Japanese Canadian community. Team 2000 took part in the Japanese Ice Hockey Federation’s Under 18 National Midget camp in Hokkaido and played several exhibition games in Tokyo. Canadian players had to adjust to a larger Olympic sized ice surface and international rules to a style of hockey based on skill and speed.
By any measure, the trip was a success and it was determined that a group be sent every two years. In 2002, another team made the pilgrimage, this time to Kushiro, where they played against the best under- 19 players from Japan, Russia and Korea.
Team 2004, made up of players across Canada played their games in Tokokomai. The team played four games, and while the on-ice results were disappointing (they returned with 0-4 record), the trip was a success from every other viewpoint – the opportunity to experience the culture and the food and tour around Tokyo.
A number of the players who participate on these teams have expressed interest in possibly pursuing university or pro hockey opportunities in Japan. This exposure of the Japanese life and culture will have a strong influence in their own future personal development.
Team 2000 participated in a hockey
camp in Hokkaido, competed in a
midget hockey tournament and played
an exhibition game in Tokyo.
(photo: Paul Kariya)
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Team 2002 on the ice in Kushiro,
Japan.
(photo: Paul Kariya).
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Team 2004 visit Kamakura.
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Team 2004 farewell.
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