While the majority of players enjoy a well-earned break from pre-season training this week, Essendon duo David Zaharakis and Jake Melksham have been in Japan on an official tour with the club's longest standing commercial partner Yakult.
Representing the club, the pair have mixed business with pleasure, seeing Tokyo's famous sights and visiting the Yakult head office and the Yakult factory at Fuji Susono.
The Bombers’ emerging leaders have relished the opportunity to experience a foreign culture. Zaharakis said he felt honoured to be chosen to be a part of the trip.
""Japan has been a real eye opener and an amazing experience so far,"" Zaharakis said.
The pair have visited Tokyo Tower, the Meji Shrine, the Ginza night lights and a local rugby match involving the Yakult Levins.
Melksham said the entire trip had provided a great opportunity to travel and learn more about another way of life.
""The different language and culture is incredible and I'm extremely grateful to be given the opportunity to be in Japan,"" Melksham said.
""It was also my first ever rugby match and it was pretty hard hitting and fast paced that's for sure.""
Yakult Australia Managing Director Kenji Ono said it was fantastic to have representatives from Essendon in Japan.
""We are delighted to introduce Jake and David to Yakult to gain a better understanding of our corporate philosophy,"" Ono said.
""We look forward to introducing more players to Yakult as our partnership endures into the future.""
After meeting Yakult Deputy President and Executive Officer Mr Yoshimiro Kawabata, the players were shocked to receive a standing ovation from the International Business Department on the ninth floor of the Yakult head office as they toured the building.
""That's the amazing part about the Japanese culture, they are very warm and welcoming people and although it was a little embarrassing, it was a great thrill to be welcomed like that,"" Zaharakis said.
