BFC Tokyo 2025 – Bonenkai Year-End Report
BFC Tokyo 2025 – Bonenkai Year-End Report
As we gather to raise a glass and bid farewell to 2025, let’s look back at a year that started quietly but ended with plenty of stories worth sharing over a pint (or three).
A Slow Start, Then Samurai Spirit
The year began with a whisper, but March brought the roar of the Samurai 7s. Day one? Let’s just say the sun was shining brighter than our performance. Day two? Redemption! The Masters fought back and claimed the Plate Final against Union Pacifico. A reminder that resilience—and sunscreen—are key.
Masters of May
May was monumental. The Masters clinched the inaugural KIML Masters title in dramatic fashion. A rollercoaster final match day when BFC sealed the title with a match day to spare. The stats speak for themselves.
First Team: A Tale of Ups and Downs
The Firsts wrapped up an inconsistent 24/25 season, finishing second from bottom. But there were sparks of glory—none brighter than the sweet revenge against previously unbeaten Teranga FC, just a week after they knocked us out of the Plate semi-final. Football, eh? Always keeps you guessing.
Summer AGM & Celebrations
July brought a non-traditional AGM, conveniently paired with the TML end-of-season party. Highlights?
- Pete bagging MVP for his goal-scoring heroics in KIML—21 goals!
- Masters receiving their medals
- James Musgrove (Muzzy) making his first appearance since 2015—welcome back, legend!
- And of course, Mr. Sheard gracing us with his presence, proving that some traditions never fade.
New Seasons, New Challenges
The new campaigns kicked off with mixed fortunes:
- Firsts: A tough start—just 2 wins in 8, albeit finishing strongly with a 6-1 victory vs Albion OB just before Xmas.
- Masters: Sitting pretty at the top of KIML after two rounds, finally get back-2-back clean sheets in match day 2
We also bid a fond farewell to Osamu, off to the UK to study Eigo and experience British culture firsthand. Safe travels, mate!
Pete’s Farewell – A True Master
Before we close the book on 2025, we raise a special toast to Pete, our Masters top scorer and MVP, who leaves for the UK in January 2026. With 21 goals (+ 4 in KIML2) and countless memories, Pete has been the heartbeat of the Masters. The UK/Bournemouth AFC may gain a striker, but we lose a legend. Pete, thank you for the goals, the graft, and the good times—your next chapter awaits, and we’ll keep a pint ready for your return!
Reflection, camaraderie, resilience
2025 threw some curveballs for Richard and Lyndsey on the health front. They spent more time in hospitals than any of us would wish, and if BFC were entering a Toranomon Hills Samurai Sevens squad next year, they’d be first picks for sheer fighting spirit.
On a serious note, what truly stood out was their unwavering positivity throughout their recoveries—a timely reminder of perspective, resilience, and the value of mates around you.
As the photo shows, Ged made it to the celebrations and even staged a surprise comeback at the Osaki arena, rolling back the years in a nail-biter where the Masters fell by a single goal to the First XI.
Autumn & Beyond
October saw Andy Hoodith back for a few jars at Osaki Footnik. November brought Evans, sharing his very own Koru Rum, distilled near Lake Victoria, Kenya. Cheers to global connections and good spirits!
Community & Cause
Beyond the pitch, BFC stood strong for mental health:
- Supporting TELL Japan, hosting regular Pub Quizzes in collaboration with Osaki Footnik
- Championing Movember
- Shining a light on Andy’s Men’s Club (via Welcome to Wrexham)
Kanpai to 2025!
From quiet beginnings to plate victories, league titles, and rum-fuelled reunions, 2025 had it all. Here’s to the friendships, the football, and the fun that make BFC Tokyo more than just a club. Bring on 2026—because the best stories are still ahead.
BFC
Football. Community. Results. 乾杯