#Japan #Tokyo #sports jobs #Work Arena #Hashikake

Embracing New Opportunities for Disabled Workers in Sports

On June 1, 2026, Hashikake Inc., headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, has opened a groundbreaking employment support facility known as 'Work Arena Tennozu.' The initiative aims to redefine employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities by integrating them into the sports industry— a creative and empowering approach that stands out nationally.

Vision and Collaboration with Shinagawa Culture Club

Hashikake has a clear vision: "Harnessing the power of sports to illuminate individual potential and create a society where no one is left behind." To bring this vision to fruition, Work Arena Tennozu collaborates with the Shinagawa Culture Club (Shinagawa CC) to introduce unique roles such as equipment management and spike polishing for athletes, commonly known as 'hopeiro' work. This collaboration is not only a job opportunity; it represents a shift in how society perceives the capabilities of disabled individuals.

Prior to the official opening, an exciting ceremony took place on May 28, inviting local officials and key guests, including Shinagawa Ward Mayor Kyoko Morisawa and former J-League player Tsuyoshi Kodama, who currently acts as a technical advisor at Shinagawa CC. Participants celebrated the launch of this innovative community synergy model, emphasizing the significant impact sports can have on welfare.

From Being Supported to Supporting Professionals

At Work Arena Tennozu, individuals with disabilities will take on specialized roles that support local sports teams. Their primary responsibilities include:

1. Hopeiro Duties: Engaging in essential tasks like managing athletes' spikes and gear, along with clothing management, which all play a significant role behind the scenes in athletics.
2. Merchandise Production and Sales: Combining creativity and profitability, workers will plan and create original products, contributing to the club’s official merchandise.
3. Event Operations Support: They will assist in setting up and managing events at game venues and community activities, fostering stronger local connections.

This facility uniquely empowers participants to feel valued not simply as those needing support, but as essential contributors to the athletic ecosystem.

Addressing the Challenges of Low Wages in Disabled Employment

One of the critical issues in nationwide employment support facilities is the prevalent low wage levels. Work Arena Tennozu seeks to address this by tying its roles directly to sports business, aiming for a monthly wage of over 35,000 yen (estimated for 20 working days). This approach emphasizes creating a meaningful work environment that enhances self-esteem and ensures that workers recognize their contributions to the support of others.

Creating a Cycle of Sports, Disability, and Community

The model promoted by Hashikake nurtures a cycle that integrates sports, disability, and community involvement. Work Arena Tennozu aims to fill its 20 spots, encouraging local participation in its activities, blending the worlds of sports and disability welfare intricately.

Future Aspirations from Hashikake's Leadership

Yuki Ogawa, the CEO of Hashikake, passionately states, "We aim for a world where people with disabilities are not relegated to being those who require support, but rather thrive and flourish as essential members who uplift the sports community. We hope to grow this endeavor alongside the local community, starting from Shinagawa."

Overview of Work Arena Tennozu

• - Name: Work Arena Tennozu
• - Location: 302 Niuke Building, 2-2-33 Higashi-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
• - Capacity: 20 members
• - Official Website: hashi-kake.com/workarena
• - Main Activities:

- Hopeiro duties (spike polishing, equipment management)
- Merchandise production and sales
- Event operation support

• - Key Features:

- Unique sports and disability welfare model
- Targeted high wages (aiming over 35,000 yen)
- Community engagement through local events and company relationships

For inquiries regarding this initiative, please contact Hashikake Public Relations through the following:

• - Contact: Yukiko Fujisaki, PR Department (inside Sion Co., Ltd.)
• - Email: [email protected]
• - Phone: 03-6416-0546