Hiroshi Kato - "Mayor of
Kobe High School"
Following the terrible earthquake in
Japan in January 1995, which devasta
ted the city of Kobe in particular, the
city's High School was converted into
provisional accommodation for 500
people. Hiroshi Kato, who at the time
was training to become a football
coach, succeeded in lifting the sinking
spirits of the earthquake victims by
organizing football matches for the
children, in an attempt to divert their
attention away from the difficult situ
ation.
High School". In addition to sporting
activities, Hiroshi Kato assumed
leadership duties for the organization of
aid transport, water provisions and the
distribution of food supplies. Other stu
dents followed his example by giving
him support on a voluntary basis.
The International Fair Play Committee
has awarded an honorary diploma to
Hiroshi Kato for his commitment in uni
ting the ideals of sport and social
action.
The homeless people gave him the
honorary status of "Mayor of Kobe
Hiroshi Kato at the Kobe High School where he
organized football matches for children who
suffered from the earthquake.
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