In a unique cultural opportunity, Hood River Valley wrestling hosts members of the Japanese National Wrestling Team for a three days next week as part of the 2014 Oregon Wrestling Cultural Exchange program. The group of 13 wrestlers and three coaches will arrive in Hood River on the night of Jan. 10 and will home stay with members of the Hood River Valley High School wrestling team.

On Jan. 11, the group will spend a day sightseeing in the area and hanging out with host families. On Monday, Jan. 12 the group will attend the first two periods of school at HRVHS before a special dual meet between the Japanese team and a selection of HRV wrestlers and three others from outside schools. Members of the public are invited to attend this dual, which will showcase Japan’s lineup of all-star wrestlers from across the country (school visitors must check in at the front office). An opening ceremony at 1:20 p.m. will kick off the dual meet; wrestling starts at 1:30 p.m. and is expected to finish at about 3:15 p.m.