#Japan #Tokyo #iPS Cells #Masumi Kuwata #Sports Ambassador

Masumi Kuwata Becomes Sports Ambassador for ICE

Baseball legend Masumi Kuwata has joined iPS bio venture company ICE as its new Sports Ambassador. This partnership aims to promote health and well-being, echoing ICE's motto of leading an active life into a 100-year lifespan. The company, headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo, focuses on extending health spans and is making significant strides in the well-being industry.

Kuwata, born in 1968 in Hyogo, has a storied career both in Japan and the U.S. After leading PL Gakuen High School to five consecutive appearances at the prestigious Koshien Tournament, winning the championship twice, he was drafted first overall to the Yomiuri Giants in 1985. His impressive career included awards like the Sawamura Award, multiple Golden Globe Awards, and a successful stint in Major League Baseball with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2007. After his retirement in 2008, with a record of 173 wins, Kuwata continued his commitment to the sport by excelling academically, obtaining a master's degree from Waseda University, and contributing to the field of sports science through his research roles.

Kuwata's appointment as Sports Ambassador aligns naturally with his dedication to health and knowledge in sports science. His experience, notably overcoming the significant challenge of Tommy John surgery, emphasized his resilience and profound understanding of rehabilitation and recovery, which he has translated into academic and coaching insights.

As part of ICE's ongoing efforts, Kuwata will lead initiatives related to well-being through the application of iPS cell research, which is at the forefront of breakthroughs in sports recovery, beauty, and healthcare. Collaborating with Tokyo University of Agriculture on an innovative joint research project, ICE merges local natural resources with cutting-edge biotechnology to offer groundbreaking solutions that are expected to revolutionize multiple sectors, including athletics and beauty medical care.

On February 24, 2026, ICE will celebrate Kuwata's new role with a special talk session at TRUNK(HOTEL) CAT STREET. This session, focusing on “Training, Recovery, and Sports Medicine/Beauty,” will gather experts from both the baseball and soccer fields to discuss evolving coaching methodologies in the modern sports landscape. Notable panelists, including Takayuki Yonehara, who has developed numerous athletes from youth to professional levels, and Rie Kagaya, a leading expert in iPS technology and development in cosmetics, will share their experiences and insights.

The event is free, although seating is limited. Attendees are encouraged to register in advance via the provided QR code. The venue, TRUNK(HOTEL) CAT STREET in Shibuya, Tokyo, provides a unique space for these important discussions, highlighting the synergy between athletics and scientific advancement.

Kuwata’s involvement with ICE as Sports Ambassador not only aims to enhance the wellness of athletes but also seeks to introduce innovative applications of iPS cell technology to the beauty and pet industries. The company looks forward to creating new value alongside Kuwata, marking a fresh chapter in the intersection of sports and biotechnology.

About ICE

Founded in March 2025, ICE is dedicated to pioneering iPS cell applications for well-being, including cosmetics and collaborative regional initiatives within industries like tourism and agriculture. Located at Shinjuku, the company continues to drive meaningful advancements in health and beauty through scientific research.

For more information about ICE and its initiatives, visit their official website at ICE or follow their social media channels.