Royals FC AZ traveled to Japan this past summer and spent a week training and playing in friendly matches with partner club Matsumoto Yamaga FC.

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Over the course of a week, 12 Royals FC AZ players and coaches played in three friendlies and experienced Japanese culture. Off the pitch, the Roaysl FC AZ ladies participated in a yukata dressing experience, a lightweight Japanese kimono, toured Matsumoto City and Matsumoto Castle alongside students from the Green Forest International School, presented Matsumoto Mayor Gaun with Real Salt Lake and Utah Royals FC jerseys, swam in a river in Matsumoto Coty, and enjoyed a networking event with players from Matsumoto Yamaga FC.

On the field, the Royals FC AZ players were led in a training session with Matsumoto Yamaga FC Head of Coaching, Shiro Kikuhara. In their first friendly, Royals FC AZ faced Tokai University Suwa High School and won 2-1. In the second friendly, Royals FC AZ faced the Matsumoto Yamaga FC ladies and won 4-0. In the final friendly, Royals FC AZ squared off against the Matsumoto Yamaga FC U13 boys and played to a 1-1 draw.

"Royals FC AZ’s journey to Japan this past summer was a powerful blend of athletic and cultural exchange. Over the course of a week, we engaged in three friendly matches but also immersed ourselves in Japanese culture.  Whether swimming in the rivers of Matsumoto or participating in a cross-cultural networking event with Matsumoto Yamaga FC and the kids wearing Yukatas walking the city, every moment was a testament to the deep connections created through the game and the experiences that only travel can offer.  We were grateful for our time in Matsumoto and thankful to Yamaga FC for their hospitality. We are excited to welcome their players here in Arizona the next time around," said Royals FC AZ Director, Tiffany Roberts.