Several members of the Seiwa Academy soccer team have recently been caught engaging in drinking and smoking activities. The school's administration discovered these delinquent behaviors and has opened an internal investigation. The details of the incident, including when and where it took place, are still vague. However, the news has sparked a nation-wide conversation on youth conduct and the importance of discipline in sports organizations.
In Japan, underage drinking and smoking are socially frowned upon and are legally prohibited. High school sports club members are generally expected to set good examples as they represent their schools. The schools themselves exert influence over their students' personal lives to maintain discipline. So, situations like these can lead to serious consequences, even expulsion, and can fuel public debates regarding regulation in sports clubs and education system.
In the US and EU, youth drinking and smoking are also illegal and generally viewed as negative behaviors. However, the consequences may depend on specific circumstances and local regulations. In contrast to Japan, high school sports players in these regions might not always face severe school-based repercussions unless their actions are affecting their academics, athletic performance, or leading to severe disciplinary issues.