#Japan #Itabashi #Sachi Sugiyama #Volleyball Experience

Former Japan National Player Sachi Sugiyama Hosts Volleyball Experience in Itabashi

Itabashi Ward is excited to announce a unique opportunity for local elementary school students. On July 19, 2024, the district will host a volleyball experience session led by Sachi Sugiyama, a noted former player who represented Japan in both the Athens and Beijing Olympics.

This event is part of a legacy initiative derived from the district's collaboration with the Italian Olympic Committee, which began in 2018. Itabashi provided the Azusazawa Gymnasium as a training venue for the Italian men's and women's volleyball teams during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, demonstrating the district's commitment to fostering sports and international exchanges. The volleyball experience event allows for the continuation of this spirit of sportsmanship and community engagement.

This year marks the sixth iteration of the volleyball experience program and the second time Sachi Sugiyama has been invited as an instructor. Previous sessions have featured distinguished figures such as Moto Ko Obayashi and Mari Ochiai, and the involvement of such talented athletes adds significant value to the experience for participants.

Event Details

• - Date: July 19, 2024 (Saturday)
• - Time: 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
• - Location: Azusazawa Gymnasium, Itabashi (3-1-1 Azusazawa, Itabashi Ward)
• - Participants: Local elementary school students (must be accompanied by a guardian)
• - Capacity: 100 participants (registration by lottery if oversubscribed)
• - Fee: 1,000 yen (includes insurance)
• - Application Deadline: June 24, 2024

Applications can be submitted electronically or via a return postcard.

This event not only offers the chance to learn from a volleyball icon but also promotes physical fitness and teamwork skills among the youth of Itabashi. To apply online, follow the provided link on the Itabashi Ward website.

About Sachi Sugiyama

Sachi Sugiyama was born in 1979 and began playing volleyball in the fifth grade. Her exceptional talent was recognized early on when she was selected for the Japanese national junior team during her final year of high school in 1997. Following her graduation, she joined the NEC Red Rockets in 1998, where she made a remarkable debut by winning the Rookie of the Year award.

Sugiyama played a key role in her team’s undefeated league victory the following year. Her career highlights include being selected for the national team in 2000, winning a bronze medal at the 2001 World Grand Champions Cup, and participating in two Olympic Games in 2004 and 2008. From 2013, she made history with an incredible record of 329 consecutive appearances in the V-League, solidifying her status as one of the league’s all-time greats. Throughout her illustrious career, Sugiyama accumulated numerous accolades, including the V-League Honor Award and various individual titles such as Best 6 and Spike Award.

The volleyball experience session with Sachi Sugiyama promises to be a memorable experience for students, instilling a love for the sport and valuable lessons in dedication and teamwork.