The Japan Football Association decided Wednesday to reward the women's national team with cash bonuses for winning the Women's World Cup, with the 21 squad members to receive ¥6.5 million each.
The JFA had set down ¥1.5 million each but decided to pay an extra ¥5 million as a special bonus for the triumph, an achievement that brought a much-needed dose of good cheer to the country still traumatized by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.
"I think it is a reasonable figure," said JFA vice president Kozo Tashima.
The JFA also decided to increase Japan coach Norio Sasaki's bonus by ¥4 million.
The move comes a day after the government announced the team would receive the People's Honor Award for their historic victory, a 3-1 penalty shootout win over the United States in the final in Germany on July 18.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano said Tuesday that the honor, which will be conferred at a ceremony Aug. 18, was "for inspiring people in Japan with their dedication and attitude not to give up until the very end and for encouraging people to face great difficulties such as the (March 11) catastrophe."