Children Experience the Magic of Professional Basketball at Kandu's Special Event

Event Report: Kids Take the Court with Pro Players!

On January 31, 2026, the home game of the professional basketball team SENDAI 89ERS became a memorable occasion for 27 lucky children. As part of the special escort kid event organized by Kandu Shinrifu, these kids were greeted with enthusiasm and excitement, walking hand-in-hand with their favorite players onto the court. This unique initiative is a collaboration between Mercury Co., Ltd., the operator of the children’s career experience theme park Kandu Shinrifu located in new locations in Japan, and the professional basketball team.

Background of the Event

Mercury Co., Ltd., headquartered in the Shinjuku area of Tokyo, seeks to enrich lives through diverse talent development. By hosting an interactive career experience park, Kandu Shinrifu offers children the opportunity to learn about society and various occupations. As part of their commitment to community revitalization and regional development, Mercury sponsors the SENDAI 89ERS, rooted in the local area. The aim of this event is to allow children who have envisioned their dreams during their experiences at Kandu to step onto the special stage of professional sports. By doing so, they nurture the spirit of effort and challenge toward their aspirations.

Overview of the Event

- Event Name: Kandu Shinrifu presents Dream Job Escort
- Date: January 31, 2026
- Venue: Xebio Arena Sendai
- Participants: 27 children, aged 6 to 11, selected by lottery

The Day of the Event

On the event day, the selected children gathered before the match, some feeling nervous as they awaited the moment to meet their admired players. After a briefing by the staff, they came face-to-face with the athletes. Initially anxious, the children lightened up as their idols offered words of encouragement. When the time came, amidst the cheers and dramatic lights, they confidently walked onto the court, hand in hand with the players.

Following the escort experience, the kids watched the game from the audience, relishing the powerful plays of professional athletes and gaining renewed appreciation for the sport.

Voices from Participants

Many children expressed their joy at this unique opportunity. One child said, "I was so happy to walk onto the court with my idol, Kosuke Niinuma. He told me, ‘It’s okay to feel nervous,’ and I admire him even more now!" Another participant commented, "I loved watching Nathan Booth's three-point shots! I hope to walk with him one day." Moreover, one child remarked, with a smile, that their favorite player is Kosuke Niinuma because he’s so cool and deserves to be cheered for. The entire experience undeniably deepened their admiration for the players involved.

Looking Ahead

As a company dedicated to supporting children’s aspirations, Mercury aims to continue bridging education and local sports. Through ongoing collaborations with regional sports teams like SENDAI 89ERS, they plan to expand dreams for children and create opportunities for shared learning and inspiring moments within the community.

About Kandu Shinrifu

Kandu Shinrifu is an experiential theme park where children can try out their dream jobs. They offer 15 different occupational experiences, allowing kids to learn about the enjoyment of work and the fundamentals of money management.

Facility Information

- Location: 3-1-1 Shin-nakamichi, Rifu-cho, Miyagi, Japan, on the 1st floor of Aeon Mall Shinrifu South Building
- Opening Days: Variable
- Operating Hours:

- Part 1: 10:00 AM – 2:05 PM (four job experiences available)
- Part 2: 2:55 PM – 6:05 PM (three job experiences available)
- Part 3: 6:30 PM – 7:40 PM (one job experience available)