Last month, the Riekes Center had the honor of hosting QB Dojo, an esteemed organization hailing from Japan. With a history dating back to 2011, QB Dojo has been instrumental in professionally teaching the skills of a quarterback, the pivotal position in American Football, to Japanese athletes. Through their visit to the Riekes Center, a longstanding relationship between the two organizations was further strengthened.
QB Dojo and the Riekes Center have shared a deep connection since 2017. This recent visit marked QB Dojo's return after a pause due to the pandemic. Our connection with QB Dojo began when coach Masaki Asakura, who is no stranger to the Riekes Center, having worked as a strength and conditioning coach in the Athletic Fitness department from 1999 to 2005 during his postgraduate years. Today, Masaki continues to inspire athletes in Japan as a strength and conditioning coach, perpetuating the values he embraced during his time at the Riekes Center.
At the core of QB Dojo's philosophy lies a dedication to the holistic development of athletes. Masaki's long-term goal has always been to help athletes not only excel in their sport but also grow as individuals: “My longtime goal is to help athletes be better as a person as you do here at the Riekes Center for Human Enhancement. I’m treating my athletes equally–every athlete has different goals, so I respect them. Most coaches think that winning is the most important thing, but as a strength coach for a team, I believe that the athlete’s human enhancement is the most important thing–that comes from the Riekes Center.”
Established in 2011, QB Dojo has played a pioneering role in Japan by becoming the first school dedicated to teaching the specific skills of a quarterback. However, their mission transcends sports training alone. QB Dojo aims to instill qualities like critical thinking, effective communication, leadership skills, and personal growth in athletes, transforming them into valuable human resources capable of contributing to society beyond the field.
During their recent visit to the Riekes Center, QB Dojo engaged in various enriching Riekes activities. They collaborated with fitness coaches, utilizing the state-of-the-art Proteus machine, which measures strength and power for every movement, ensuring top-notch athletic training. Additionally, the athletes had the opportunity to explore their musical talents under the guidance of Creative Arts Director Bennett Roth Newell, culminating in the formation of a band.
The memorable visit concluded with a joyous barbeque party, celebrating the spirit of collaboration and friendship. Athletes from QB Dojo showcased their culinary prowess by preparing some of their favorite Japanese dishes, while the Riekes Center reciprocated the gesture by offering American classics such as chicken wings, watermelon, and apple pie. The exchange of flavors and experiences was a testament to the power of shared interests in bridging cultures.
The recent visit by QB Dojo to the Riekes Center served as a heartwarming reminder of the enduring bond between these two organizations. United by their dedication to athletic development and human enhancement, QB Dojo's journey continues to inspire and transform the lives of athletes in Japan and beyond. As both entities look forward to future collaborations, the shared vision of nurturing athletes not just as players but as well-rounded individuals remains central to their mission. The Riekes Center is deeply grateful for QB Dojo's visit, eagerly awaiting the next opportunity to come together and enrich each other's journeys once more.
