UH Hilo Softball Team Travels to Japan for Cultural Exchange and Competition

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The University of Hawai'i at Hilo softball team is embarking on a week-long trip to Japan, where they will not only compete in exhibition games against Japanese university teams, but also immerse themselves in the local culture by staying at Tenri University, visiting cultural landmarks, and experiencing daily life in the country.

Why it matters

This trip provides a unique opportunity for the UH Hilo softball team to broaden their horizons, forge international connections, and gain valuable experience playing against different styles of play. It also aligns with the university's efforts to internationalize its programs and expose students to diverse cultural experiences.

The details

During their stay, the Vulcans will face off against Josai University and Nippon Sport Science University (Nittaidai) in exhibition contests on Sunday morning (Saturday afternoon Hawai'i time). Prior to the games, the team will spend the first few days staying at Tenri University in Nara, where they will participate in morning exercises, chores, and meet-and-greets with local students. The team will also visit cultural landmarks like Nara Deer Park and the Tsukiji Market, as well as ride the Shinkansen bullet train.

• The Vulcans are currently 14-10 in PacWest Conference play, sitting in fourth place and within the top four teams that would qualify for the PacWest Championships postseason tournament (May 5-7).
• Josai University made the trip down to Hilo two years ago for an exhibition contest in February 2024.
• The Vulcans recently posted a 9-7 record through a tough 16-game road trip in Southern California.

What’s next

The Vulcans will return to Hawai'i and play their remaining 10 conference games against Menlo (April 16-17), Chaminade (April 24), and HPU (April 26 + May 1) as they aim to secure a spot in the PacWest Championships postseason tournament.