#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyo 2025 #Sports Inclusion #Para Sports Forum

Tokyo's Para Sports Forum 2024

The Para Sports Forum, dedicated to supporting leaders and volunteers in the world of para sports, is scheduled for February 11, 2024. This annual event, hosted by Tokyo Metropolitan Government, focuses on expanding the network of coaches and volunteers involved in sports for individuals with disabilities. This year, the theme is "Connecting Through Sports," reflecting the event's mission to enhance collaboration and share knowledge among its participants.

Event Structure

The forum will be divided into two main parts:

Part 1: Symposium (13:00 - 14:20)

This section will feature a symposium highlighting key figures associated with the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics and the Special Olympics for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Attendees will engage in discussions centered on the legacy of these events, including a reflective session on the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics and an exploration of the Special Olympics 2026 scheduled for Tokyo.

Notable Guests:

• - Ikumi Kawamata: Ambassador for the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics, from the Nippon Foundation.
• - Masaki Sato: Judo competitor representing Japan in the men's 66 kg category at the Deaflympics, bronze medalist in the men's team event.
• - Takuaki Hiraoka: Chairperson of Special Olympics Japan and 2012 Olympic silver medalist in judo.
• - Riho Kamezawa: Table tennis competitor representing Japan in the Deaflympics, silver medalist in women's team events.

Facilitator:
Masaaki Fujita: Professor at Nihon Fukushi University, with a focus on sports science and a vice chair of the Technical Committee of the Japan Para Sports Association.

Part 2: Workshops (14:40 - 16:50)

Following the symposium, various workshops aimed at enhancing engagement in para sports will be held. Participants can choose from a variety of content to facilitate networking and collaborative growth.

Workshop Options:

• - A. Lectures

1. Report on the Deaflympics - Celebrating the achievements and experiences of athletes returning from the Deaflympics, presented by individual participants.
2. Deaflympics Volunteering - Insights shared by active volunteers regarding their experiences in supporting athletes.

• - B. Support Activities

1. Utilizing the "TOKYO Para Sports & Support" - Training in how to use this volunteer portal for individuals interested in the para sports community.
2. Understanding Special Olympics - Learning about the Special Olympics Tokyo 2026 and community engagement.

• - C. Networking Sessions

1. Information Exchange with Peers - Encouraging discussions among volunteers and supporters based on their local activity areas.
2. Discussion on Challenges in Activities - Participants will share and discuss challenges faced in their volunteer efforts and strategies to overcome them.

• - D. Experience Sessions

- Engaging in eSports and para sports activities to promote understanding and inclusivity.

Feedback from Previous Attendees

Past participants have expressed their appreciation for the valuable insights gained from discussions with athletes and coaches, highlighting how the forum has motivated them to continue supporting para sports.

Registration Info

Participation is free, and those interested can register through the TOKYO Para Sports & Support portal or via direct application through contact forms. Registration is open from December 4, 2023, to January 25, 2024.

For more information, visit the Tokyo Sports Association website: Tokyo Sports Association or contact the Para Sports Forum office for details. Join us in building a supportive community for para sports leaders and volunteers as we look toward the exciting future surrounding the Tokyo 2025 events!