At a time when Japan desperately needs international support to help the victims of the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake, Japan's international sports federations have decided to close their doors. These federations need to follow the example set by Japanese athletes who have continued to play abroad and bring attention to the plight of victims.
By withdrawing from international competitions, especially those months away, Japan risks losing one of the surest ways of keeping the world's attention focused on helping those who need it. Let Japan's athletes be needed ambassadors.
shawn barva