#Japan #wheelchair basketball #Okayama #Okayama University #Paralympic Athlete

Okayama University Elementary School Hosts an Exciting Paralympic Workshop

On October 17, 2025, Okayama University, a national university corporation based in Okayama City, held an inspiring workshop at its affiliated elementary school, aimed at enlightening students about parasports through a hands-on experience with wheelchair basketball. This initiative targeted the sixth graders and utilized a special parasports experience kit, which included competitive wheelchairs donated by the 24-Hour Television Charity Committee.

The workshop aimed to deepen students’ understanding of parasports, enrich their awareness as members of a s ociety that values coexistence, and encourage them to reflect on their own lives. Leading the session was Shinji Negi, a noted Paralympic athlete from Okayama City who has an impressive history in wheelchair basketball, including serving as the captain of Japan's wheelchair basketball team at the Sydney 2000 Paralympics.

Negi, despite facing challenges after injuring his spine during high school, turned his life around through sports. He has built a remarkable career centered on the theme of forming friendships, sharing his experiences mainly in educational settings.

During the workshop, the students were captivated by Negi’s engaging manner as he demonstrated a three-point shot, drawing excited cheers from the audience. Following the demonstration, the students eagerly stepped into their wheelchairs and participated in a 5-on-5 basketball match. Some had difficulty adjusting to the adaptive equipment, but with Negi’s words of encouragement and practical advice - such as “Push the wheelchair strongly with your arms” and “Don't be afraid to collide!” - they gradually learned to maneuver the wheelchairs effectively.

The students encountered unique challenges inherent to parasports, like balancing the ball on their laps while propelling themselves in their wheelchairs, accelerating during turns, and making strong shots. Each new skill elicited awe and cheers, with some students remarking, "Just going straight is hard!" and "Professional athletes are amazing!". The atmosphere in the gym was electric as spectators shouted support, encouraging teamwork and perseverance as students bumped their wheelchairs together in pursuit of the ball.

Through this immersive experience, the children not only grasped the excitement and intensity of wheelchair basketball but also recognized the potential of sports to be inclusive for everyone, irrespective of disabilities. They emphasized the importance of possessing a ‘challenging spirit’ and nurturing a ‘considerate heart for one another.’

The collaboration between Okayama University and its affiliated educational institutions, focused on community engagement and innovative research, promises to continue enriching the lives of the students and fostering a spirit of inclusion and understanding.

Additional Information

• - For more about Okayama University Elementary School, visit Okayama University Elementary School.


Shinji Negi engaging with students


Students immersed in the wheelchair basketball experience