Ready for Their Close-up: Packers Fans in Japan

In 2017, a Wisconsin entrepreneur found himself in Japan and was checking out cherry blossoms while knocking back a few drinks, as is the custom during the spring bloom. After getting his fill of flora, he and his business associates dipped into a karaoke bar. Little did he know that decision would spark a long-distance friendship, spur multiple trans-Pacific travel junkets and set the wheels in motion for a documentary film about Packers fandom.

Ty Morse was surprised to see a local wearing a Brett Favre jersey in the bar. After giving the man a quiet “Go Pack Go,” he got one in return. Those shouts quickly grew louder when they discovered they were kindred spirits, but the language barrier kept deeper conversation to a minimum. The two mostly just said players’ names to each other and nodded.

Gradually, more people in Packers gear began arriving at the bar. He soon learned that he had happened upon a meeting of the Japanese Packers Cheering Team. The fan group was getting together to watch a game from the previous season on tape, as the logistics of assembling in the massive city, along with the time difference, made it difficult for them to cheer on the Packers live from half a world away.

His new buddy, a man by the name of Cheppo, was one of the founders of the group. He had stumbled across an NFL football game on television during a bout of insomnia in the 1990s and quickly caught the bug. In the process of learning more about the game online, he connected with other Japanese football enthusiasts. One thing led to another, and the faraway fan group was formed.

That fateful day is part of a film about the Cheering Team and their epic journey to Lambeau Field called No Packers, No Life. The documentary was directed by Wisconsin native Craig Benzine and premiered at the Wisconsin Film Festival in April. And, just last night, it started a run in theaters around the state.

It’s showing at Marcus Theatres for the next week or so. You can find locations and showtimes here. Go check it out. And remember to wear your Packers gear whenever you leave the house. You never know what good fortune it will bring or amazing story it will set into motion.