#Japan #Honjo #KI Challenge #Nobuyuki Yoshida #2025 Deaflympics

Honjo Welcomes KI Challenge Athletes for the 2025 Deaflympics

On September 24, 2025, athletes from the KI Challenge Athlete Team had an inspiring meeting with Nobuyuki Yoshida, the mayor of Honjo City, Saitama Prefecture. The team, which includes talented athletes such as Masaki Sato, Nana Kawabata, Ai Iwabuchi, Kana Shoji, and their coach Yoshiki Yamamoto, gathered to discuss their training and aspirations for the upcoming Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics.

Aims and Aspirations

The team conveyed their dedication and preparations for the Deaflympics taking place from November 15 to 26, 2025. With the objective of winning medals, they shared insights about their training routines and competitive spirit with the mayor. Yoshida expressed heartfelt support, emphasizing the significance of hosting the 100th anniversary of the Deaflympics in Japan and encouraged the athletes to push for remarkable performances.

Comments from Mayor Nobuyuki Yoshida

Mayor Yoshida remarked on the historical importance of this event, coinciding with its centenary, expressing, “Hosting the Deaflympics is a rare opportunity for us, and I hope each of you strives for excellent results. I look forward to welcoming you back with great news about your achievements.” His supportive words undoubtedly uplifted the spirits of the athletes present.

Remarks by Coach Yoshiki Yamamoto

Coach Yamamoto also shared updates about the team's preparation, highlighting the rarity of such an opportunity in their home country. He stated, “We are fully committed as the KI Challenge Athlete Team to aim for medals. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance, and we will exert our utmost efforts to succeed.” His confidence and determination reflected the team’s mindset as they pursue their goals.

The KI Challenge Athlete Team: A Brief Overview

Founded in April 2019, the KI Challenge Athlete Team embraces a mission of being ‘Japan’s most challenging athlete team’. The group not only aims to overcome physical challenges but also aspires to reach greater heights in sports. Currently, the team comprises nine members participating in various disciplines such as Deaf Futsal, Deaf Soccer, Deaf Judo, Wheelchair Basketball, and Wheelchair Badminton.

The athletes are not only dedicated competitors but also actively engage in initiatives to raise awareness about parasports. They conduct training sessions, product development, and host events to promote inclusivity. To date, they have partnered with businesses and educational institutions across Saitama and beyond, reaching over 4,000 participants in parasport experiences.

Achievements and Competitions

The KI Challenge Athlete Team has made impressive strides in competitions, achieving successes such as:

• - 2019 Women's Deaf Futsal Asian Championship (Thailand): Champion
• - 2019 Women's Deaf Futsal World Championship (Switzerland): 5th Place
• - 2023 Women's Deaf Futsal Asian Championship (Iran): Champion
• - 2023 Women’s Deaf Futsal World Championship (Brazil): First Victory and Best Coach Award for Coach Yamamoto
• - 2024 Winter Deaflympics (Turkey): 5th Place
• - Upcoming Competitions: Team members are poised to compete in significant international events, including the Deaflympics.

Conclusion

The KI Challenge Athlete Team embodies determination and resilience. As they prepare for the Deaflympics, their commitment to excellence, coupled with the support from Mayor Yoshida and the Honjo community, is a testament to their strength. The world will be watching as these athletes strive for medal glory, representing their region and country on the grand stage.

For more information about the KI Challenge Athlete Team and their journey, visit their official website.