Football might be known as America’s game, but given the sport’s international growth, that now might be a bit of a misnomer.

Countries outside of the United States are focusing resources and efforts to develop leagues, knowledgeable coaches and quality athletes.

Evidence of this can be found when looking at National Team events such as the 2016 U-19 IFAF World Championship that took place in Harbin, China and the International Bowl VIII.

Seven countries participated in the IFAF World Championship including Mexico, the United States, China, Austria, Australia, Canada and Japan.

No team opened more eyes than Team Japan, which used a fast paced spread offense to keep games close and competitive.

At the conclusion of the tournament, Team Japan felt that international competition benefited their program so much, that they decided to make the trip to play in International Bowl VIII for the second time ever.

At International Bowl VIII, USA Football provided five coaches from the U.S. to work with the Japan coaching staff and team to develop the Japanese athletes and coaches. Despite a 44-7 loss for his Under-17 squad, Team Japan general manager, Shinzo Yamada, believes the experience is something that will further the growth of football in his country.

“This is totally a game changer program for us being able to learn from U.S. coaches,” Yamada said. “Not only for players, but for coaches in the actual game preparation.”

Through various clinics and team-building exercises, Team Japan gained insight into the different methods of game preparation. Yamada and the other members of Team Japan that made the trip to Arlington, Texas are definitely going to bring the new found knowledge home.

“The overall growth of the team was much bigger (than preparation for a normal game),” Yamada said. “I think our players felt something because right after we got back to the hotel they went to the gym. We understand that we need to be more physical.”

While the competitiveness and passion for football drive Yamada and Team Japan to continue growing their program, Yamada knows the connections made between athletes and coaches from different backgrounds is the bigger picture.

“The greatness of American football is being able to connect people around the world,” Yamada said.

The bonds formed by coaches and athletes from different countries lead to expanded discussions on drills, techniques, formations, concepts and more. For nations with relatively new American football programs, this information is invaluable and something that wouldn’t be possible without international play.

Each year USA Football continues to make football a world game by providing interested nations with coaching clinics, playbook assistance and football knowledge.

And with the success of international tournaments such as the International Bowl and the IFAF World Championship, countries will keep advancing in skill, knowledge and desire to play.