#Japan #Koto #Tokyo 2020 #wheelchair tennis #Ariake Tennis

Ariake Tennis Forest Park: New National Training Center

Ariake Tennis Forest Park has proudly received designation from Japan's Sports Agency as the National Training Center (NTC) for wheelchair tennis. This significant recognition means that the facility will play a crucial role in training and developing athletes as they prepare for major international competitions, including the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics. The park's impressive infrastructure, which includes showcase and indoor courts, will be utilized for strengthening and nurturing Japan’s wheelchair tennis representatives.

Understanding the NTC Designation

The National Training Center initiative is focused on enhancing the training environments available for athletes. As highlighted by the Sports Agency, some sports face challenges when training at core facilities like the Ajinomoto National Training Center due to seasonal factors or the nature of the sport. As a solution, existing facilities—with essential amenities, sports medicine, and scientific support—are designated as specialized NTCs to aid in the overall training experience.

Designation Duration

The designation for Ariake Tennis Forest Park will span from May 8, 2023, to March 31, 2026. This timeframe allows for comprehensive planning and development of athlete training, specifically catering to wheelchair tennis.

Reasons for Designation

The facility garnered this important recognition mainly due to its international-standard tennis courts and its status as a legacy from the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. Ariake Tennis Forest Park is designed with accessibility in mind, enabling athletes with disabilities to train effectively in a barrier-free environment. Such measures ensure that the athletes can prepare well for their competitions, fostering their growth and success.

About Ariake Tennis Forest Park

Beyond its designation, Ariake Tennis Forest Park is one of the premier tennis establishments in Japan. Opened on May 14, 1983, this facility features the centerpiece of its complex: the Ariake Coliseum, along with multiple outdoor, indoor, and showcase courts. Over the years, it has hosted numerous international events, attracting players and fans alike. Notably, during the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, Japanese athlete Shingo Kunieda triumphed by winning a gold medal at this venue, showcasing the facility's role in promoting tennis in Japan.

Facility Details

• - Opening Date: May 14, 1983
• - Location: 2-22 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo
• - Facility Size: 163,342 square meters
• - Key Facilities: Multiple tennis courts, including state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor options.
• - Management Team: Ariake Tennis Management Team
• - Official Website: Ariake Tennis Park

Commitment to Athlete Development

Kazunari Kawatei, the President of the Japan Wheelchair Tennis Association, expressed enthusiasm regarding this latest development. He emphasized that this training center will honor the legacy of the Tokyo 2020 Games, ensuring a well-equipped environment for the athletes. The facility's recent upgrades, particularly the accessibility features and international quality courts, make it an ideal hub for training.

The Japan Wheelchair Tennis Association is dedicated to leveraging this facility not only for para-athlete enhancement but also for nurturing future generations of talent as they aim for the Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games. The organization also plans to host events like the World Wheelchair Tennis Championships, fostering inclusivity and furthering the diversity efforts within the sports community.

This initiative is part of the broader framework of the “2050 Tokyo Strategy,” particularly focusing on making sports a vibrant and supportive element of society.

Contact Information

For any inquiries regarding this development, please contact:
Sports Promotion Headquarters, Sports Facilities Department, Management Planning Division - Mr. Goto
Phone: 03-5388-2179 (Direct)