Supporting Dreams: Gibraltar Life Sponsors Para Football Classroom for Special Needs Schools

Gibraltar Life Supports Inclusive Sports Education

Gibraltar Life Insurance Company, based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has once again committed to supporting the Para Football Classroom tailored for special needs schools. This initiative, which operates under the motto "Magic of the Dream," is part of their larger effort to promote dreams and aspirations among the youth. The goal of the program is to introduce children with disabilities to the joys of sports, providing an environment where they can participate without barriers.

The Para Football Classroom offers tailored lessons led by expert instructors who adapt the content to suit the unique needs of the children. This ensures that every participant can engage and benefit from the experience. Para football, an adapted form of soccer designed to be enjoyed by individuals with disabilities, serves as the core activity in these sessions.

Feedback from Participating Teachers

In a recent session at a selected school, teachers voiced their appreciation for the initiative. They noted how each child's needs were met individually, allowing everyone—including students, faculty, and support staff—to enjoy the experience. Moreover, the effective teaching methods and resourcefulness in adapting materials provided a valuable learning experience that educators looked forward to applying in their future lessons. The positive energy and motivation displayed by the children throughout the activities emphasized the program’s success in engaging them with soccer.

One teacher even remarked that such programs create opportunities that might be difficult for schools to develop independently, thus broadening the horizons for students’ potential.

Meet the Instructors

The Para Football lessons are guided by accomplished professionals in the field:

- Takeshi Nakayama: As the representative of the Japan Para Football Federation, he is an experienced coach who has previously led Japan's national deaf soccer team. He is also a qualified instructor for para sports.
- Masakatsu Setowaki: He is the head of the Shizuoka FID Soccer Federation and has received multiple accolades, including the 2013 Award of Merit from the Japan Para Sports Association.

Program Structure

The length and activities of the sessions are adaptable based on the needs of each school, but a typical schedule may resemble:

- 10 mins: Opening (Introduction and Icebreakers)
- 10 mins: Warm-up (Rhythmic Dance)
- 20 mins: Para Football Experience (Ball Handling and Mini Games)
- 5 mins: Reflection (Sharing Feedback)

Application Details

Interested special needs schools across Japan (both public and private) can apply for participation. The application deadline is May 29, 2026, with selections expected to be finalized by mid-June. Around ten schools will be chosen through a lottery system to host the program between late June and December 2026.

Applications must be submitted via a dedicated application form, which Gibraltar Life's Life Plan Consultants will distribute to eligible schools. Schools will need the principal's endorsement when submitting their application via email. Please note that applications from individuals cannot be accepted.

Promoting Community and Responsibility

Gibraltar Life’s commitment to community assistance reflects the values of its parent company, Prudential Financial, which emphasizes providing economic security and peace of mind while ensuring corporate growth alongside community development. The mission is to support children and local communities actively, and the course on para football is just one way of fulfilling this promise. Through such initiatives, the company aims to create memorable experiences and inspire hope for the future among today's children.

For inquiries regarding the program, please reach out to the Japan Para Football Federation.