Japan Under-17s Tournament

Nihon University High Schools Cup

Northern NSW Football is pleased to call for expressions of interest from eligible male players who play in NNSWF premier competitions to be considered for selection in an under-17s representative team to tour Japan and participate in the prestigious Nihon University High Schools Cup.

This unique and exclusive opportunity is being offered as part of NNSWF’s developing partnership with the Japan Football Association and Nihon University and forms a key element of our broader Japan Engagement Strategy.

NNSWF has been invited as the first-ever foreign team to participate in this prestigious tournament, a significant milestone that reflects the strength of our developing international relationships and our ambition to create global pathways for players across northern NSW.

Eligibility Criteria

  • EOIs are open to players born in 2007, 2008 or 2009 (i.e. aged 17 or turning 17 in 2025)
  • Currently competing in one of NNSWF’s sanctioned Premier Competitions including NPL Men’s NNSW, HIT106.9 Northern League One, Premier Youth League and the NNSW Regional Super League.

Tour Dates

  • Departure from Sydney: Friday 29 August 2025 (evening)
  • Return to Sydney: Friday 5 September 2025 (morning)

Please note: These dates fall shortly after the conclusion of the regular winter season. Players and families should be aware that this period may coincide with finals series matches in some competitions. Please consider any potential conflicts prior to submitting an EOI.

Why This Opportunity is Unique

This initiative represents a truly special opportunity for players to experience high-level international football while also engaging in a culturally rich and structured developmental program. As the first international team ever invited to the Nihon University High Schools Cup, Northern NSW Football is leading the way in establishing meaningful global connections that will benefit our players, coaches and clubs well into the future.

We encourage all eligible players with an interest in international football and personal growth to consider submitting an EOI. EOIs close 5pm Monday 2 June 2025.

Proposed Tour Itinerary

  • Friday 29 August: Depart Sydney
  • Saturday 30 August: Arrive in Tokyo, orientation, sightseeing, training at Nihon University, attend the J-League Pro Game between Yokohama FC and Tokyo Verdy at Nippatsu Stadium 
  • Sunday 31 August: Travel to Mt Fuji, team activities, training at Toki no Sumika
  • Monday to Wednesday 1-3 September: Tournament matchdays, team building and development
  • Thursday 4 September: Visit Odawara Castle for a Ninja Experience, bullet train to Tokyo and overnight flight to Sydney 
  • Friday 5 September: Arrive in Sydney 

Estimated Cost 

The estimated total cost per player is approximately $5,500, which includes:

  • Return international flights (Sydney–Tokyo–Sydney)
  • Accommodation for five nights in Japan (Tokyo and Mt Fuji region)
  • NNSWF apparel and uniform package
  • Travel insurance and on-pitch injury coverage
  • Most meals, including all breakfasts, group dinners and tournament lunches
  • All on-ground transport within Japan, including:

o Charter coach transfers

o Bullet train travel

o Luggage transfers

  • Laundry services
  • Full-time bilingual tour guide
  • Tournament entry fees
  • Training at Nihon University
  • Sightseeing and cultural experiences including:

o Guided Tokyo city tour

o Attendance at a J.League fixture

Staff Support and Supervision

  • NNSWF will support the playing group with a team of five trained and experienced staff, covering coaching, team management and medical roles.
  • All staff will be accredited and fully briefed to ensure player safety, welfare and development throughout the tour.
  • The staff-to-player ratio will support on-and off-field needs and ensure that all elements of the itinerary are well supervised and professionally delivered.

Next Steps and Selection Process

  1. EOIs will close at 5pm on Monday 2 June 2025.
  2. Once EOIs are received, NNSWF will host an online information session to provide further detail to interested players and families.
  3. A final decision will then be made regarding player selection. This may involve either an open trial process, or selection based on performance insights gathered through existing talent identification systems. First preference will be given to those born in 2007 and 2008 as people born in 2009 will be eligible in 2026. 
  4. Selected players will receive an invoice for the initial component of the tour fee. This payment will confirm participation and is required promptly to secure flights and ground arrangements.