Japanese striker Yuzo Tashiro was brought to Wollongong to make an impact and he plans to achieve that on and off the pitch.
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The three-time international has already started to make his mark at his new club with two goals in the Wolves’ opening three NSW NPL matches.
But the 34-year-old isn’t limiting his activity to matters on the field.
Tashiro is also studying full-time at the University of Wollongong (UoW) College as part of a new partnership with the Wolves.
Sport is one thing but education is more important because sport can’t last forever.
- Jacob Timpano
“I felt the need to be able to communicate with the team so I decided to study English,” the Japanese star explains.
“It will be able to help me understand what the coaches and my teammates are saying in detail which will help him play as a better player.
“The people around here are so kind, they have given me the motivation to study hard. I would like to liven up this city with my good performances as a footballer.”
Tashiro is the first player to be introduced to the UoW College pathway and will be an ambassador while he completes full time study.
UOW College General Manager Julie Renwick was pleased to have Tashiro on-board.
“Yuzo is a superstar. We have had a never had a superstar or a rock star as we call it studying at the College,” she said.
Tashiro’s arrivlas come as the College and the Wolves announced a new agreement which will see the two organisations unveil a number of educational initiatives across the region.
Wolves coach Jacob Timpano felt it was positive step for the club.
“For players, for children, sport is one thing but education is more important because sport can’t last forever,” he said.
“For the club it is a huge step and is something we will only get stronger going forward. It will give more credibility to the club, as well as more community engagement. It is important that the club are out there involving themselves with as many organisations in the community. The University of Wollongong College is one of those organisations.”
Tashiro is expected to suit-up again when the Wolves meet Blacktown City next Saturday night.