[Interview] "Physical training exceeded expectations; culture is top-notch" — Japanese referees share their firsthand experience of the KBL-Korean referee program

*This content was translated by AI.

Japanese professional basketball B.League referees were amazed by the rigorous training of the KBL.

The KBL invited three referees from Japan's B.League for a concentrated off-season referee training program from the 3rd to the 7th.

This program was organized as a follow-up exchange initiative following the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between the KBL and the B.League last May, in response to the B.League's request to experience the KBL's referee training programs and operational systems.

The KBL explained that the purpose is to share umpiring know-how between the two leagues and expand international umpire exchanges.

Japanese referees directly participated in the off-season intensive training and education program alongside the KBL officiating crew. They completed physical training including fitness and circuit training, swimming rehabilitation programs, as well as video instruction and game headquarters operation system training. The Japanese referees were also assigned to KBL club exhibition games to gain practical experience.

Among these, the most striking impression was undoubtedly the physical training.

The intensity of the training was evident just from their facial expressions. As the program progressed, beads of sweat began to form on the faces of the Japanese referees. They were seen breathing heavily and making strained expressions. Whenever this happened, KBL referees would stand by and clap, raising their voices to encourage them.

Umpire Masaya Yanagida recalled in an interview with StarNews on the 7th that "the most memorable thing was the physical training conducted on the first day."

He said, "Although I was informed in advance about the training content and intensity, actually participating revealed that the intensity was so high that I am worried about whether I can complete all schedules to the end."

Still, they did not give up. Referee Yanagida expressed gratitude, saying, "Thanks to the support of KBL referees who never hesitated to offer encouragement and assistance to their B.League colleagues who participated in training with them, we were able to successfully complete all educational schedules."

Norihiro Okawara, the umpire, also cited KBL's intense training as his most impressive experience.

He said, "The interval training I first underwent is the most memorable," adding, "It was my first time experiencing such high-intensity interval training at that stage. It was extremely difficult, and it left a strong impression on me."

He added, "KBL referees generously encouraged and supported us during difficult moments. Thanks to them, we were able to complete all training until the end." He also said, "We once again realized how important physical improvement as well as encouragement and cooperation from teammates are."

Toyota Kohei, the umpire, was no different. What he remembered most vividly was circuit training.

The umpire said, "I have been consistently doing weight training even in my daily life, but this is the first time I have experienced such high-intensity training." He added, "Through this training, I was able to re-examine the content and intensity of my training. It has become a good opportunity to think about what direction I should prepare for in the future."

What surprised the Japanese umpires was not only the intensity of training but also the warm atmosphere and considerate culture of the KBL and Korean umpire organization, which left a deep impression on them.

Umpire Okawara said, "Through this training, I felt a great sense of satisfaction and accomplishment," adding, "Above all, everyone I met at KBL treated me with constant kindness and meticulous consideration."

He also said, "I was impressed by the KBL as having the best officiating organization," and added, "Training together, sweating side by side, and spending precious moments will remain a deeply meaningful experience that I will never forget."

The Toyota referee particularly noted the KBL referees' horizontal organizational culture. He said, "What impressed me most about this KBL referee training program was having colleagues with whom one can speak honestly about anything," adding, "I felt that a culture of mutual trust has been established, and a horizontal relationship among referees is well rooted."

He added, "I deeply realized that the systematic support and environment building by the KBL play a significant role in creating and maintaining this culture."

The Toyota umpire pledged, "I want to make good use of what I learned during this training when I return to Japan. I will contribute to building an organization in the B.League where umpires respect and trust each other and grow together."

The training session also became an important asset for preparing for the new season for umpire Yanagida. He stated, "While the B.League was also a crucial period for preparing for the season, this training allowed me to prepare more thoroughly both physically and mentally," adding that he "enhanced his game management skills and physical fitness through various education and training programs."

He added, "As a result, we were able to start the new season in the best possible condition during the preseason period," and expressed his gratitude, saying, "I thank the KBL officials who warmly welcomed us at this crucial time and provided us with the opportunity to participate in training."

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*This content was translated by AI.