Kokugakuin University's Track and Field Club Inspires Future Athletes
Event Overview
On March 8, 2026, LifeNet Insurance Co. held a special event featuring the Kokugakuin University Track and Field Club. This initiative is aimed at helping young athletes learn from top athletes who are preparing for the prestigious Hakone Ekiden.
Engaging with Young Athletes
At LifeNet, we pride ourselves on our genuine connection with clients, especially since we began as an online company. Having the Kokugakuin athletes join us allowed families to engage directly with these role models, enriching the experience for the participants.
Teaching the Secrets of Success
The event, titled "Special One-Day Membership at Kokugakuin University Track and Field Club: Learn the Ultimate Methods from Hakone Ekiden Runners,” focused on imparting knowledge about the mindset and training regimens adopted by elite athletes. Participants ranged from elementary to high school students involved in sports like baseball, soccer, basketball, softball, and table tennis.
After the opening remarks by LifeNet's President, Junpei Yokosawa, attendees were greeted by a cheering crowd as they welcomed coach Yoshihiro Maeda along with standout athletes who participated in the 102nd Hakone Ekiden.
Part One: Learning from Top Athletes
The first part of this event featured a talk show that delved into three main themes:
Secrets of Strength,
Mind and Mental Control, and
Teamwork and Coaching Guidance. Coach Maeda emphasized the importance of treating competitions as an extension of everyday training rather than as special occasions, which helps mitigate stress. He advised participants to engage with their competitive emotions constructively.
Athlete and new captain Tsukayuki Nonaka shared his experience of embracing challenges during races, highlighting the importance of having a positive mindset through unexpected situations. Fellow athletes conveyed real-life examples of how they adapted to difficulties, like long-term injuries, and emphasized a commitment to training during such setbacks.
Part Two: Practical Training Sessions
The latter half of the event transitioned into practical demonstrations where participants engaged in fundamental sports exercises and stretches that they could perform at home. Under the guidance of Coach Suzuki, kids enthusiastically participated in training routines designed to strengthen their core and improve flexibility.
Participants joyfully practiced their skills with movements that involved body coordination, further demonstrating the application of the techniques they had just learned, all while wearing bright smiles.
Q&A and Interaction with Athletes
The third segment allowed students to ask questions directly to the athletes about topics ranging from weight management to becoming a proficient long-distance runner. The athletes shared insights, encouraging participants to cultivate a consistent running habit, resonating deeply with the eager audience.
To conclude the event on a high note, participants enjoyed a lottery for signed posters and took part in photo sessions with the athletes, marking a celebratory end to an inspiring day.
Conclusion
At LifeNet Insurance, our motto emphasizes listening to our clients and responding to their needs. We commit to supporting individual journeys as they pursue their dreams.
About the Partnership with Kokugakuin University
Our endeavor to innovate within the traditional life insurance sector aligns perfectly with Kokugakuin University's ambition to excel in the Hakone Ekiden. In December 2024, we solidified our partnership by entering into a sponsorship agreement, embodying a shared vision for future success.
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