Yokohama DeNA BayStars’ Issei Ebi Duo Named Honorary Shrimp Ambassadors

In a unique tribute to the joy of seafood, the Japanese Shrimp Association has appointed Yokohama DeNA BayStars’ beloved players, Daiki Ise and Tatsuya Ebi, as their official Honorary Shrimp Ambassadors. This remarkable initiative, aimed at promoting the qualities of shrimp and engaging in youth education, underscores the importance of sports and nutrition.

A Dream Come True

This historic appointment is not merely a promotional role; it represents a heartfelt story of making children’s dreams come true. The notion arose from a message received during the "Whole Shrimp Dream Cooking Contest 2025," wherein a young participant expressed her delighted aspirations to follow in the footsteps of these star players, highlighting the ability of sport to inspire the young.

This heartfelt sentiment from 14-year-old Ibuki Ebi resonated deeply with the motivations behind the Japanese Shrimp Association’s mission. Her words prompted the organization to extend the honorary title to Ise and Ebi, as a dedication to nurturing the hopes of children, while also reigniting their passion for scrumptious shrimp.

Players’ Remarks

Daiki Ise’s Response

Daiki Ise expressed his happiness in accepting the role: "I am grateful to have been chosen as an Honorary Shrimp Ambassador. The ‘ise ebi’ represents vitality and prosperity, and I am committed to uplifting my team alongside Tatsuya Ebi."

Tatsuya Ebi’s Commitment

Similarly, Tatsuya Ebi expressed astonishment at receiving the title but embraced the opportunity with privilege, saying, "As a member of the Yokohama DeNA BayStars, I aim to perform well in baseball and spread the word about shrimp to more fans and families."

Nutritional Value of Shrimp

Shrimp stands out as a nutrition-packed food, being high in protein while low in calories. Rich in essential nutrients like taurine and arginine, shrimp is recognized for its role in supporting athletic performance and overall bodily strength.

The Japanese Shrimp Association is committed to promoting shrimp not only as a delicious food option but also as a vital component in dietary education aimed at fostering healthy childhood development and physical fitness.

Strengthening Ties with the Sports Community

With this new appointment of professional athletes, the Japanese Shrimp Association aims to deepen collaboration with the sports sector. They plan initiatives focused on promoting dietary education for growing children, tailoring food selections to support athlete conditioning, and highlighting regional sports intertwined with food culture.

Planned Activities for the Honorary Ambassadors

While prioritizing their sporting activities, Ise and Ebi will also engage in several promotional events:

- Introduction on the official website and social platforms of the Japanese Shrimp Association.
- Public relations campaigns to promote shrimp.
- Distribution of shrimp as part of promotional and commemorative events.

About Honorary Shrimp Ambassadors

The Honorary Shrimp Ambassador role is designated to individuals who contribute positively to promoting shrimp culture and culinary awareness. This initiative has welcomed a wide array of personalities, including actors and local government officials. Additionally, Umios Co., Ltd, the official sponsor of Yokohama DeNA BayStars, collaborates with the association, furthering a collective initiative that integrates industry, sports, and education.

Looking Ahead: Whole Shrimp Dream Cooking Contest 2026

The Japanese Shrimp Association plans to host the Whole Shrimp Dream Cooking Contest again in 2026. This contest provides children a platform to express their creativity surrounding shrimp. Entries are welcomed from children across the nation.

Moreover, the association will continue its initiatives, including the appointment of ‘Children’s Shrimp Ambassadors,’ food education events, and information dissemination to instill an appreciation for shrimp in the hearts of young generations. Nurturing children’s aspirations will remain a central pillar of our mission.

About the Japanese Shrimp Association

Organization: Japanese Shrimp Association
Mission: To promote a cheerful dining experience through shrimp consumption, thereby celebrating longevity and family health, while educating future generations about nutritious seafood.
Website: Japanese Shrimp Association

This initiative is an invitation for media inquiries and support as we aim to shed light on the future of shrimp and the significance of healthy eating in children’s lives.