Saki Kumagai, a defender for Nadeshiko Japan, is working to encourage more girls to play soccer while continuing her own career as an active player in England.

Through the general incorporated association Nadeshiko Care, or Nadecare, where she serves as representative director, Kumagai, 35, ran a program from March to April that sent elementary school girls on an overseas soccer trip.

“I want children to experience the world as early as possible,“ said Kumagai, who plays for the London City Lionesses in the Women’s Super League. “I want them to expand their own possibilities and options.”