#Japan #EPO #Sendai #COCOLON #JKA

Changing the Game: Inclusive Baseball Viewing Experience

The Non-Profit Organization EPO, based in Edogawa, Tokyo, will host a unique baseball event focused on children with severe physical disabilities and their families. Scheduled for September 4 and 5, 2026, at Rakuten Mobile Park Miyagi in Sendai, this event aims to revolutionize the way these families experience live sports.

Addressing Accessibility Issues

Traditionally, wheelchair seating at sporting events often limits the number of accompanying family members to one, making it difficult for families to sit together. This event challenges that norm by introducing diverse seating options. Utilizing flat artificial turf seating known as 'Picnic Boxes' and group seats will allow families to enjoy the game together as a unit, breaking down barriers to shared experiences.

A Diverse Range of Viewing Options

The event will feature special improved seating such as:

• - Picnic Boxes: These flat artificial turf areas enable comfortable lounging and viewing, allowing those who can transfer from wheelchairs to relax in a spacious setting with their family nearby.
• - Group Seats: These are designed to facilitate a shared experience among multiple family members, including siblings. Positioned right in front of the wheelchair seats, this setup ensures that all family members can enjoy the game together.

Support for Individual Needs

Inclusivity extends beyond just seating arrangements. The event also provides tailored accommodations for those with other care requirements:

• - Accessibility for Medical Devices: Families with complex needs will be catered to, ensuring that the care and transport of medical devices and wheelchairs are seamless.
• - On-Site Professional Support: Experienced staff and nurses will be available throughout the event, assisting families to maximize their enjoyment of the ballpark experience.

A Holistic Approach to Enjoyment

Beyond physical seating arrangements, various support services will be available to assist families in enjoying their day fully:

• - Food Assistance: To ease the stress of navigating busy concession stands, staff will be available to handle food purchases, allowing caregivers to focus on enjoying the game without worrying about logistics.
• - Sibling Engagement: Special attention will be given to siblings, who often play a less visible role in caregiving scenarios. Staff will accompany them to attractions and ensure that everyone has an opportunity for fun.

Partnerships That Make It Possible

The success of this event is made possible through strong partnerships with various organizations, including special support from the Public Interest Foundation JKA. This grant enables a high-quality event rooted in community engagement.

Additionally, a collaboration with VISH, a company dedicated to enhancing children's experiences, allows us to offer this event free of charge to participants. Their presence adds value and expands the range of support offered.

A New Standard for Inclusive Events

This ground-breaking initiative looks to set a precedent for incorporating severely disabled children and their families into mainstream activities, moving beyond traditional models of disability support. By forming effective partnerships across sectors—government, private companies, and non-profits—this event illustrates a forward-thinking approach to fostering an inclusive community.

Event Details

• - Dates: September 4 and 5, 2026
• - Location: Rakuten Mobile Park Miyagi, Sendai
• - Cost: Free entry for families
• - Capacity: 10 family groups per day, totaling 40 attendees
• - Registration: Participants can sign up via the event's registration portal before spots fill up.

We invite all interested families to take part in a truly inclusive sporting experience. For more information on registration and the event schedule, please visit COCOLON's event page.

Together, let’s create unforgettable memories on the baseball field!