Cal Dearth (SHA '17), a former Boston University men's lacrosse standout and current member of the Boston Cannons, traveled to Japan this past fall to take part in World Crosse 2018.
 
The goal of the event was to grow the game in Japan through clinics as well as an All-Star game between Major League Lacrosse veterans and Japanese players. Dearth recapped his journey halfway across the globe below.
 

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It was a great honor to have the opportunity to travel to Japan for this event. Our team had a good mix of guys, though most of the players are part of the MLL.
 
The lacrosse portion of our trip began on our second day in Japan. We went to an elementary/middle school for a presentation about what lacrosse is and how to play. Thanks to a translator, we held a Q&A with the kids and then did a demo for them, showing them how to pass and shoot among other skills. The kids were enthusiastic about learning how to play and we had a blast hanging out with them and teaching them about lacrosse.
 
Our team then faced a developmental national team from Japan the next night in what was a competitive contest. We only won by three against a quick and skilled Japanese side. I was impressed with the level of play they showed. They used their speed to their advantage, always moving and cutting on offense. Defensively, the team was very disciplined and their lacrosse IQ is definitely coming along. It's not surprising that their national team finished sixth at this summer's World Championship.
 
While the lacrosse was fun, the most rewarding part of this trip was being able to experience Japan away from the field and learn about the country's culture. Japan is a beautiful country and definitely much cleaner than here in America. The food was delicious and the people were super friendly. Even though we arrived in early November, it was 60 degrees out and it didn't feel like the middle of fall.
 
Journeys like this one remind me how grateful I am for where lacrosse has taken me. I'm lucky to have been able to take part in this trip and want to thank the World Crosse organizers for putting on an amazing experience.