The Pennsylvania Regional Training Center (PRTC) recently returned from an international training trip to Japan, where its athletes immersed themselves in both elite-level wrestling and Japanese culture. Over the course of a week, the team trained under the guidance of Olympic Champion Mitsuru Sato at two of Japan’s most prestigious wrestling institutions: Senshu University and Nippon Sports Science University.

The trip brought together top wrestling talent from both the United States and Japan, creating a rare opportunity to exchange techniques, share training philosophies, and build lasting friendships across cultures. For the PRTC athletes, the experience was both demanding and inspiring.

Each day featured three-hour practices that tested both body and mind. Workouts began with international warm-up drills before shifting into highly specific technical instruction, and each session included five to six full live matches per athlete. The intensity mirrored the standard of excellence long associated with Japanese wrestling.

PRTC Senior Athlete Darian Cruz, who is preparing for the 2025 Senior World Championships, reflected on the trip:

“From training with some of the best athletes in the sport of wrestling—in the entire world for that matter—to submerging in a culture of honor, discipline, and respect, I can speak for the group when I say we pushed our limits mentally, physically, and culturally. Not a single student-athlete on this trip had truly left the country. This experience will give the Quakers the kick start to a season that will ultimately result in the collection of our hardware come March! Again, thank you to all those who supported and continue to support the dreams and goals of these incredibly ambitious young men. This is just the beginning of what your support can provide.”

Beyond the mats, the athletes explored Japanese culture. They wandered through historic temples, tasted authentic ramen in tucked-away restaurants, and marveled at the energy of modern shopping districts. For many, it was their first time abroad, adding an invaluable layer of personal growth to the athletic experience.

Two-time NCAA All-American CJ Composto also shared his perspective:

“When I started wrestling at five years old, I never would've thought eighteen years later I’d go on a training trip to Japan with my best friends. All the opportunities I’ve received through wrestling with the PRTC have been a blessing.”

PRTC Chief Operating Officer Kevin McGuigan emphasized the importance of the trip:

“Training in Japan with Olympic Champion Mitsuru Sato and some of the world’s best athletes provides invaluable experience for our wrestlers. Opportunities like this accelerate their growth on and off the mat, and we’re grateful to our supporters who make them possible.”

The week in Japan was more than just training; it was an experience that blended wrestling, culture, and camaraderie—an international journey that will shape the PRTC athletes both as competitors and as individuals for years to come.