HONOLULU – Chaminade University proudly announces that its women's soccer team has secured a life-changing opportunity to travel to Japan later this month, where they will participate in a series of competitive matches against both university opponents and professional J League teams. This remarkable achievement comes after rigorous fundraising efforts by the team, whose goal is to raise 100% of the necessary funds to support the entire rostered team on this international endeavor.
"Our women's soccer team at Chaminade has earned an invitation through their achievements in the classroom and on the field," said Head Coach Michelle Richardson. "The team held a 3.68 GPA while beating Point Loma, the 2023 Division II national champions. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments both on and off the field, consistently competing at the top of our conference and achieving outstanding academic success. We are honored to be hosted by Mr. Shimohara of Vonds Ichihara and Mr. Koide, the Mayor of Ichihara."
The Silverswords, composed of dedicated athletes balancing demanding STEM majors such as pre-med, nursing, psychology, and biochemistry alongside their athletic commitments, epitomizes resilience and excellence. More than half of the team is from the state of Hawai'i and many team members have part-time jobs to support their education and soccer careers, making this opportunity to travel to Japan particularly significant.
The team will have goodwill matches against university squads from Vonds Ichihara, Nihon University, Teikyo University, Juntendo University and Orca Kamogawa. For most of the team, this will be the first time competing on a high international level.
"This trip is not just about soccer; it's about broadening horizons and opening doors to our student-athletes," Richardson added. "For some, it will be their first time experiencing Japan's rich culture and playing against top-tier international competition. We aim to make this experience unforgettable."
Highlighting the personal milestones within the team, one senior who graduated this past spring is poised to sign her first professional soccer contract during the trip. Additionally, for most of the team, this will mark their first visit to Japan, many of which have Japanese heritage, adding an extra layer of excitement and anticipation.
Team members will also have cultural activities such as sightseeing in Kyoto, engaging with youth, taking naganita (polearm) and aikido classes.
This marks the second straight summer a Chaminade athletics team is making a trip to Japan. Last August, CUH women's volleyball visited Osaka on a cultural trip where they also played against several Japanese universities, the first Silversword program to make a foreign trip. NCAA members are allowed to make overseas foreign trips once every four years and are allowed up to 10 practices prior to departure.
The women's soccer 'Swords expresses deep gratitude to all supporters and sponsors whose generous contributions have made this journey possible. Their support ensures that every team member can afford to participate, regardless of financial constraints.
For further information on how to financially support the Chaminade University Women's Soccer Team's journey to Japan, please contact Michelle Richardson at wsoccer@chaminade.edu.
About Chaminade University of Honolulu: Chaminade is a private Marianist university offering a rich educational experience rooted in Catholic tradition. Located in Honolulu, Hawai'i, Chaminade provides a supportive and nurturing environment where students can thrive academically, athletically and personally.
For media inquiries, please contact: Kevin Hashiro, Sports Information Director Chaminade University Phone: 808.739.8579 Email: kevin.hashiro@chaminade.edu
