University of North Carolina Athletics
Postcard From Japan: Whitman Checks in From Gunma
August 6, 2019 | Wrestling
Hi Tar Heel Fans,
Â
Brandon Whitman here, a sophomore from Dundee, Michigan. We're a long way from the States here in Japan, but we're having a great time as a team. This is going to go a long way for our team bonding. We're all growing closer and enjoying the camaraderie.
Â
Yesterday, we went on a team hike and reached the summit to see an amazing view of Mount Fuji. A big group of us made it to the top and got some incredible pictures. This country has some amazing views – definitely things that you don't see back in Dundee or Chapel Hill!
Â
We've been eating some traditional Japanese foods and trying different cultural experiences. My favorite food has been the real sushi and ramen. Some of these guys are going to lose a lot of weight, but most of us are being bold! As Bryce would say, you've got to get tough.
Â
We're now in the prefecture of Gunma to stay in a traditional Japanese hotel and train/practice for a few days. It's great to head to a different culture and get training in that's different than what we get back home.
Â
Keep following us on social media for updates as we continue our journey here.
Â
Go Heels!
- Brandon
Â
Brandon Whitman here, a sophomore from Dundee, Michigan. We're a long way from the States here in Japan, but we're having a great time as a team. This is going to go a long way for our team bonding. We're all growing closer and enjoying the camaraderie.
Â
Yesterday, we went on a team hike and reached the summit to see an amazing view of Mount Fuji. A big group of us made it to the top and got some incredible pictures. This country has some amazing views – definitely things that you don't see back in Dundee or Chapel Hill!
Â
We've been eating some traditional Japanese foods and trying different cultural experiences. My favorite food has been the real sushi and ramen. Some of these guys are going to lose a lot of weight, but most of us are being bold! As Bryce would say, you've got to get tough.
Â
We're now in the prefecture of Gunma to stay in a traditional Japanese hotel and train/practice for a few days. It's great to head to a different culture and get training in that's different than what we get back home.
Â
Keep following us on social media for updates as we continue our journey here.
Â
Go Heels!
- Brandon
Players Mentioned
/ Wrestling
UNC Women's Basketball: Tar Heels Pick Up Win at Florida State, 82-55
Monday, January 19
WBB: Post-Florida State Press Conference - Jan. 18, 2026
Sunday, January 18
UNC Wrestling: #12 Carolina Controls Virginia, 25-10
Saturday, January 17
WREST: #12 Carolina Controls Virginia, 25-10
Saturday, January 17