The Launch of J-STAR Project Entry for Future Paralympic Stars

J-STAR Project Announces Entry for Future Paralympic Stars

The Japan Sports Council (JSC) has officially opened entries for its Japan Rising Star Project (J-STAR Project), aimed at discovering future athletes for the Paralympic Games. Starting from April 10, 2026, the project invites participants aged 11 and above to assess their potential through foundational measurement events. The initiative is part of a broader mission to bolster Japan's representation in international para-sports, including upcoming events like the 2024 Paris Paralympics and the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics.

Purpose of the J-STAR Project

Initiated in 2017, the J-STAR Project acts as a talent scouting program in partnership with various organizations, including the Japan Parasports Association (JPSA) and the Japan Olympic Committee (JOC). The program aims to identify and nurture future top athletes who can excel on the world stage. With a commitment to providing opportunities in Paralympic sports, the project includes comprehensive support and coaching from elite trainers to participants recognized for their aptitudes.

The foundational measurement events serve as a critical screening process where aspiring athletes demonstrate their skills in front of professional judges. Participants deemed suitable will progress to verification programs led by central sporting bodies, providing a direct pathway to competitive training.

Entry Details and Timeline

Participants can sign up for the foundational measurement events, which will take place across various regions in Japan. The entry period starts on April 10, with deadlines varying per venue. Some key details include:

- Eligibility: Open to students in the sixth grade and older (must turn 11 years old by April 1, 2026).
- Entry Platform: Interested candidates can apply through the official J-STAR Project entry site.

Here's a synopsis of the upcoming events:

Region	Venue	Date	Application Deadline
---	---------	--	------
Shikoku	Anabuki Arena, Kagawa	June 20	May 20
Kanto 1	Nippon Foundation Para Arena, Tokyo	June 28	May 28
Kinki	Amity Maishima, Osaka	July 18	June 18
Kyushu	Nurse Power Arena, Kumamoto	August 1	July 1
Kanto 2	Tokyo Para Sports Training Center	August 15	July 15
Chubu	Gifu Prefectural Friendship Arena	August 29	July 29
Hokuriku	Niigata Prefectural Disability Center	September 22	August 21

Success Stories

The J-STAR Project has already seen remarkable successes. From the athletes discovered under this initiative, eight individuals competed at the Paris 2024 Paralympics and another eight will represent at the Milan-Cortina 2026. This reflects the project's effectiveness in nurturing talent that can compete on a global scale. Since its launch, a total of 47 athletes have been selected for the senior national team, with many achieving podium finishes in international competitions.

In the Milan-Cortina 2026, athletes like Kaneko Mikio, a promising ice hockey player, and Matsutsudō Kotoha, showcasing her skills in Nordic skiing, have emerged through J-STAR. Similarly, the Paris 2024 Paralympics will feature athletes like Torii Haruka in goalball and Kinoshita Aira in swimming, proving that this initiative is paving the way for the next generation of champions in para-sports.

Conclusion

The J-STAR Project exemplifies a commitment to inclusivity and excellence in sports. By encouraging young athletes to pursue their potential in para-sports, the program not only strengthens Japan’s participation in top-tier competitions but also sets the stage for future generations of athletes to shine brightly on the international stage. Aspiring athletes and their guardians are encouraged to visit the official site and seize the opportunity to be a part of this transformative journey in sports.

For ongoing updates, follow the J-STAR Project’s official social media accounts on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.