Japanese figure skater Sakamoto Kaori recently celebrated with her team, Rikuryura, at a gala send-off. The commemorated event was marked by team unity and cheerful revelry, highlighting the achievements and the endearing bonds formed within the team. It is yet unclear what Sakamoto Kaori's next step will be, but her farewell with Rikuryura concludes a significant chapter in her ice-skating career.

In Japan, sports are not just seen as physical activities but as endeavours that shape character, embody perseverance, and promote unity. Thus, Send-offs like these are often seen as grand celebrations that symbolize the end of an era and the beginning of a new journey. The emphasis given to these events is a testament to Japanese society's values of camaraderie, respect for others' accomplishments, and the belief in lifelong learning.

Similar to Japan, in the US and EU, athletes moving on from their teams or retiring from professional sports receive significant acknowledgment. These celebrations often focus on career highlights, acknowledgments of team and individual efforts, including the impact the athletes had on their sport and community. They demonstrate the shared values of teamwork, individual determination, and respect for sportsmanship across cultures.