Goyang Sono signs MOU with Japanese B.League Saga Ballooners... 'Korea-Japan Sports Exchange' officially kicks off

*This content was translated by AI.

Professional basketball team Goyang Sono Skygunners has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Saga Ballooners of Japan's B.League Premier to launch multifaceted exchanges.

According to Sono, the signing ceremony for the MOU aimed at improving performance and revitalizing the local community was held on the 4th at Saga Arena in Saga City, Saga Prefecture, Japan. The club announced this on the following day, the 5th.

According to Sono, attendees included team manager Lee Ki-wan and captain Jung Hee-jae from Sono, as well as Dabata Joo Ta-ro (President) and captain Inoue Ryota from Saga. Under the agreement, both clubs will promote exchanges in professional teams and youth programs, personnel exchanges between front offices, activation of fan tours, and expanded collaboration between their home cities.

First, friendly matches will be held alternately at Goyang Sono Arena and Saga Arena during the off-season each August to September. Joint training sessions and tactical information exchanges will also take place before the season begins. Development programs such as mutual visits and joint training by U-15 and U-18 youth clubs, along with basketball clinics, will be gradually implemented.

Regarding club operations, both sides will share practical know-how in marketing, sponsorship, and game management, while continuing to exchange staff through dispatches and inspections. They are also considering official away-game viewing tours utilizing the direct Incheon-Saga flight route, off-season fan tours, and food fairs within home stadiums. These initiatives aim to evolve into intercity exchange projects linked with local governments and economic and tourism organizations in Goyang City and Saga City.

Saga's Dabata Joo Ta-ro (President) said, "I am pleased to have signed an agreement with the powerhouse Korean team Sono." He added, "Through multifaceted exchanges covering both players and front office staff, we aim to strengthen our club capabilities and serve as a bridge connecting the two cities."

Sono captain Jung Hee-jae expressed, "We are grateful to both clubs for creating this meaningful occasion on Seon Su-deul-eul (CEO)'s behalf," and added, "I hope we can build a relationship where we support each other by playing good games without injuries."

Team manager Lee Ki-wan of Sono stated, "Beyond simple basketball exchanges, we hope this agreement becomes an opportunity for both clubs to advance onto the Asian stage culturally." He further said, "In the upcoming season, players, front office staff, and fans will unite as one to move toward even higher goals."

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*This content was translated by AI.