The Tokyo Great Bears, a professional volleyball team based in Shibuya, Tokyo, have announced an exciting charity initiative aimed at supporting local children through sports. Spearheaded by player Issei Ohtake, the team has committed to donate one volleyball to each of the 26 elementary and junior high schools in Shibuya for every service ace scored during the 2024-25 Division I Men's League regular season. This project seeks to inspire young athletes and encourage participation in volleyball within the community.
Initiating the Charity
On September 27, 2025, Issei Ohtake visited Yoyogi Junior High School in Shibuya, followed by a visit to Uehara Junior High School on September 30, where he personally handed out volleyballs to eager students. The initiative aims to promote a positive sports culture among youth, reinforcing the Tokyo Great Bears' commitment to community engagement and development. The donations are not only about providing equipment; they symbolize the team's dedication to nurturing the next generation of athletes.
Ohtake’s Performance Highlights
Issei Ohtake, who plays as a middle blocker for the Tokyo Great Bears, has exhibited exceptional performance throughout the season. With a height of 202 cm and weighing 98 kg, his physical attributes have made him a formidable player on the court. Ohtake played in a total of 44 matches, contributing to the team's success with impressive statistics, including participating in 173 sets and scoring 55 service points, ranking fifth in the league. His dedication and skill on the court have not only fetched accolades for him personally but have also positively impacted the club's overall performance.
Goals and Community Focus
The Tokyo Great Bears, established in May 2022 and led by representative director Kenji Kubota, operate from their headquarters located in the stylish Ebisu Prime Square Tower. The organization is fully committed to fostering regional activities that contribute to the revitalization of their hometown. The donation of volleyballs represents a significant step toward enhancing sports accessibility and promoting physical fitness among schoolchildren in Shibuya.
The team encourages young talents to embrace sports as a part of their daily lives, highlighting that participation in physical activities helps in building teamwork, discipline, and resilience.
The Bigger Picture
By engaging in such charitable acts, the Tokyo Great Bears reinforce their role not only as professional sports players but also as active community members who care about the welfare and development of the youth. The partnership between professional sports and local schools underscores the importance of collaboration in nurturing young athletes who will carry the torch for future generations. This initiative serves as a model for other sports organizations aiming to foster a positive impact within their communities.
In conclusion, the Tokyo Great Bears’ charity project is more than just a donation; it is a commitment to empower children, promote healthy lifestyles, and create a bond between the community and the athletes. As Issei Ohtake continues to strive for excellence on the court, his outreach to the youth will undoubtedly inspire a new wave of volleyball enthusiasts in Shibuya and beyond.