Tuesday, June 9th Faculty of Human Sciences Department of Sport Science and HealthProfessor Naohiko Ueno In the "Sports Finance Exercise" course, Fukuchiyama United (General Incorporated Association) Shota Katano, the representative director of Kyoto Prefecture, appeared as a guest speaker.
The lecture focused on the theme of "Regional Expansion of Club Activities and Community Development by Local Clubs," explaining practical examples of sports business in Fukuchiyama City, the speaker's hometown. He introduced the club's efforts to provide diverse sports opportunities for children across multiple sports, as well as addressing regional issues such as a shortage of coaches and regional disparities. He also discussed how the club currently collaborates with approximately 140 companies in Fukuchiyama City to build a system that connects the community and its people, creating opportunities for children to experience top-level sports and promoting "creating an environment where dreams can be pursued from within the community." He emphasized the importance of a persistent, challenging attitude, stating, "You become strong because you have dreams," and "You challenge yourself precisely because there is no precedent."
Drawing on his experience of the excitement of stadiums in the UK, and drawing on his practical marketing experience in professional baseball and the J.League, Mr. Katano passionately conveyed to the students his belief that "sports can only be sustainable if they are made into a viable business."
During the subsequent Q&A session, the importance of a "business perspective for creating sustainable systems" and "the ability to collaborate with local communities and government" was discussed with students involved in community activities through sports. This provided the participating students with a valuable opportunity to learn about new career possibilities through sports.
[Department of Sport Science and Health]
