ALC Students Win First Place at the 2026 Japan Cup

We are delighted to share exciting news from the Japan Cup 2026, held on April 18, 2026, at Front Range Community College Westminster. This year, three students from JPNS 2120 competed as a team—and earned 1st place in their category!

The winning team members are:

• Gage Swords
• Brendan Pizzurro
• Lillie Thomasset

This achievement is especially notable as our department has now won this category two years in a row, highlighting the strength and consistency of our Japanese language program.

A total of 10 teams competed in Level 4 (equivalent to JPNS 2120), representing universities, community colleges, and high schools (AP level) across Colorado. After the preliminary rounds in the morning, only three teams advanced to the final round in the afternoon.

Despite the intense competition, our students demonstrated remarkable dedication, teamwork, and outstanding Japanese language proficiency. The final round was made even more meaningful as Gage’s and Lillie’s parents were able to attend and watch their performances, allowing everyone to celebrate the hard‑earned victory together.

In addition to the team’s success, Gage Swords received a special individual prize during the Conversation Round, an individual competition in which his exceptional conversational skills were recognized.

Throughout the semester, the course instructor hosted weekly study sessions to support the students’ preparation for the competition. Reflecting on their accomplishments, the instructor expressed deep pride in their hard work, commitment, and growth, and noted that the students themselves were thrilled with their achievements.

Please join us in congratulating Gage, Brendan, and Lillie on this outstanding accomplishment!