Consul General Takahashi Joins Sea Dogs’ First-Ever “Japan Night” (July 29, 2025)
August 4, 2025
On July 29, Consul General Takahashi delivered remarks at the Portland Sea Dogs' inaugural Japan Night, a celebration hosted by the Portland, Maine, AA baseball team.
In his speech, Consul General Takahashi expressed hope for a new chapter in Japan-Maine relations, emphasizing baseball's role as a bridge of friendship between Japan and the United States. He highlighted the historical contributions of Horace Wilson, a Gorham, Maine, native who introduced baseball to Japan over 150 years ago, and noted that a February commemorative event honoring Wilson led to the formation of a committee to build a monument in his memory.
Consul General Takahashi also presented the Consul General's Commendation to Mr. Ryan Shaffer, President of the Japan-America Society of Washington, D.C., recognizing his long-standing contributions to cultural exchange between Japan and Maine.
The event was attended by Maine State Representative Ellie Sato, Portland Mayor Mark Dion, and Portland Hearts of Pine soccer player Masashi Wada and coach Yuta Nomura. Traditional Japanese performances, including taiko drumming, added to the memorable evening.
In his speech, Consul General Takahashi expressed hope for a new chapter in Japan-Maine relations, emphasizing baseball's role as a bridge of friendship between Japan and the United States. He highlighted the historical contributions of Horace Wilson, a Gorham, Maine, native who introduced baseball to Japan over 150 years ago, and noted that a February commemorative event honoring Wilson led to the formation of a committee to build a monument in his memory.
Consul General Takahashi also presented the Consul General's Commendation to Mr. Ryan Shaffer, President of the Japan-America Society of Washington, D.C., recognizing his long-standing contributions to cultural exchange between Japan and Maine.
The event was attended by Maine State Representative Ellie Sato, Portland Mayor Mark Dion, and Portland Hearts of Pine soccer player Masashi Wada and coach Yuta Nomura. Traditional Japanese performances, including taiko drumming, added to the memorable evening.