A diving training program for second-year Sports Course students was conducted over two separate schedules: July 7-8 (first group) and July 10-11 (second group) at the Hirasawa Marine Center in Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture.

The first group enjoyed favorable weather throughout both days. Students were divided into groups of five to six and participated in the training. Under the careful guidance of local instructors, they reviewed what they had learned in preparatory classes while practically mastering the fundamental techniques required for diving: equipment setup, breathing techniques, underwater swimming methods, diving and buoyancy control, and emergency response procedures.

Having a full understanding that diving is a life-threatening sport, the students impressed us with their meticulous approach to safety checks, calling out to their buddies and carefully confirming each step. Before entering the water, all students maintained an appropriate level of tension and prioritized safety throughout the training.

The second group experienced some periods with slightly lower underwater visibility on the day, but the ocean displayed beautiful scenery. It became a precious opportunity for students to observe numerous marine organisms up close, including colorful fish and seaweed.

While some hesitation was visible on the first day as students adjusted to the unfamiliar underwater environment, they gradually grasped the techniques through repeated practice. By the second day, they had progressed to the point where they could freely move underwater while independently adjusting their buoyancy in a well-balanced manner. Experiencing the sensation of weightlessness, they fully savored the unique appeal of diving, making for a fulfilling two-day training program.

The Sports Course students plan to utilize the diving licenses they obtained this time by attempting scuba diving in overseas waters during the school trip scheduled for their third year. We hope that, inspired by this experience, they will continue to enjoy diving as a lifelong sport and appreciate its charm for years to come.