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March 27, 2017
Japanese football star becomes UOW College ambassador
International and current Wollongong Wolves player to promote student pathways.
The UOW College (at the University of Wollongong) has officially unveiled Yuzo Tashiro as ambassador and student in a partnership with Wollongong Wolves Football Club to promote education opportunities.
The Wolves recently signed Tashiro for the 2017 National Premier Leagues NSW competition, and he has so far scored two goals in three games for his new club.
Tashiro joins the club after a decorated career in Japan, where he won three league titles, the Emperor’s Cup and Japanese Super Cup, and recently helped Cerezo Osaka win promotion to the J-League.
The 34-year-old striker also earned three appearances for the Japanese national team.
Tashiro knocked back offers in Japan, the United States and elsewhere to play in Australia.
As part of a sponsorship arrangement between the club and UOW College, Tashiro will take on a role as an ambassador for UOW College as well as becoming a student in a 42-week English langue program.
Tashiro’s role will involve speaking at UOW College events, welcoming new students and helping UOW College extend its international reach, as well as being part of the Wolves’ education programs, which includes assisting players to continue their education and have a career outside sport.
UOW College General Manager Julie Renwick said the partnership was a great boost for the College’s profile and community engagement.
“We offer many alternatives to students through our courses and being able to extend our reach through sport and other sectors of our community simply means more people have more chances to further their education.
"We are extremely happy to have Yuzo help us reach more students looking for greater options forthe future.”
Following the official signing, Tashiro met and signed autographs for students from four Japanese universities who have completed a four-week study tour, which included English language classes, accommodation with local families and activities in the region.
Each year close to 400 students from around 40 institutions in Japan attend the study tours with UOW College.
Through a translator, Yuzo said he was delighted to be in Wollongong with his family and the support of UOW College motivated him to perform highly both in the classroom and on the pitch.
His high profile in Japan will deliver benefits for UOW College, the Wollongong Wolves and the region.
Wolves Chairman Tory Lavalle said the partnership with UOW College was a major achievement for the Wolves.
“We are now in a position where we can fast-track significant education and pathway opportunities for our players and also to many others across our communities.
“Our club has a very strong commitment to education - education for our seniors; education for our juniors; and exposure to educational opportunities for as many people across our communities as possible.
“Having this partnership now with UOW College really enhances the positive contributions we can make.
“Whether it’s on the field or off the field, this is going to deliver great benefits, in the short term and particularly in the long term.”