#Japan #Tokyo #Women's Football #HER TEAM #Adidas JFA

HER TEAM Project: An Initiative to Boost Women's Football in Japan

In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming the landscape of women's football in Japan, Adidas Japan and the Japan Football Association (JFA) are set to begin applications for the HER TEAM project. Scheduled to take off on September 1, 2025, this project endeavors to create an environment where more middle school girls can continue playing football.

Since its inception in 2019, HER TEAM has significantly impacted the participation rates of female athletes in Japan's sporting landscape. By 2020, the program specifically targeted the U-15 age group, supporting the establishment of girls' teams across the nation. As the project enters its sixth year in 2025, the intention is to expand its reach and influence even further.

Recent Surge of Women's Football
Globally, women's football is witnessing unprecedented growth. The UEFA Women’s EURO 2025™ recorded a staggering total attendance of 657,291, shattering the previous record of 574,875 set in the 2022 tournament. This surge highlights the increasing popularity and support for women’s football.

Japan is following suit, especially after the launch of its professional league in 2020. However, despite this progress, it's concerning that only 2.8% of middle school teams are comprised of girls. Alarmingly, one in five female football players quit the sport by the age of 13, underscoring the challenges faced in developing a supportive environment for young female athletes.

Changing the Game with HER TEAM
The HER TEAM initiative aims to reverse these trends. By providing support for new team establishments, HER TEAM can help foster opportunities for middle school girls to engage in football. For the 2025 cycle, newly established teams that pass the application screening will receive various forms of assistance from the project.

Support and Benefits Provided:

• - Promotional tools for team member recruitment
• - Uniform provision (estimated for approximately two members)
• - Hosting of football clinics with coaching support from Coerver Coaching Japan
• - Priority invitations to JFA and Adidas football-related activities
• - Regular online meetings for team support and information exchange

Application and Target Areas
The call for applications is open nationwide, exclusively for new teams. The registration period for applications begins on September 1, 2025, and concludes on October 31, 2025. Following a review of submissions, selected teams will be announced for support.

Eligible teams must cater to middle school girls and be newly founded by the end of March 2026, with ongoing team operation expected. Furthermore, teams must agree to participate in HER TEAM activities as stipulated by Adidas and JFA.

Success Stories from HER TEAM
Participants in the HER TEAM initiative have experienced remarkable personal growth and achievement. Graduates have advanced to various levels, including selection for the National Sports Festival.

For instance, Miho Nakahira, a former player from Toruberino Women’s Junior Youth, reflected, “Joining HER TEAM introduced me to many peers from different prefectures. Although there were few girls playing football in my area, I gained a lot of courage from meeting so many girls. I’m determined to continue my journey in high school football using the experiences I’ve gained from HER TEAM.”

Similarly, Nene Onishi, another graduate, shared, “Participating in HER TEAM enriched my practice experience, fostering friendships and victories. Despite initial confusion about continuing football, I found joy and commitment thanks to HER TEAM, which shaped my present in high school football.”

Impact on Women's Football Community
Since its inception, the HER TEAM project has produced 88 teams across 36 prefectures in Japan, creating fertile ground for both competitive and recreational players. This initiative not only aims to increase participation but also foster community through women's football, paving the way for future generations.

Conclusion

The HER TEAM project is more than just a sports initiative; it represents a powerful movement to inspire a new generation of female footballers in Japan. By continuing to empower young athletes and building supportive communities, Adidas and JFA are laying the groundwork for the future of women’s football in the country.

For more information, visit the official project site at HER TEAM Project.