Written option 2:

Ricky Koivu was excited about a trip to Japan for the SHL, and thought it would be a great marketing opportunity for the league. He has always wanted to make a trip there, and being able to do it with his friends and teammates is something like a dream come true for him. Him and his Koivu brothers have already planned an entire itinerary for experiencing the culture on their off-days down in Tokyo. Last time Japan was involved in an official SHL event it went rather poorly and caused controversy, so it was great for the league to plan something that would be more positive. Koivu especially enjoyed visiting the local Honda outlets, and showing off his learning level 3 Japanese, which he acquired through weekly classes, to the employees. Ricky and some of his pals even made a special edition SHL Trading Card collectible for one of the employees there, who was very grateful for the act. (159 words)