【Project Activities】

Invited world-class junior high school level players from 12 countries, including Japan, to conduct an international exchange tournament. Opportunities for exchange were created among players and with citizens through a welcome reception, match viewing, and photo sessions. Local charm was also promoted to overseas players through city sightseeing excursions.

【Project Background】

This event has been held since 2019 in cooperation with the International Badminton U16 Promotion Council, with the aim of improving the badminton skills of junior high school students in the city, creating international exchange opportunities, and promoting sports tourism.

【Project Objective】

Improvement of badminton competitive skills for junior high school students in the city, creation of international exchange opportunities, promotion of sports tourism, etc.

【Project Area】

Education through sport

【Methods】

Athlete Dispatch and Invitation

【Outcomes】

The tournament featured 32 male and female players from 12 countries, including Japan. Exchanges with various countries were fostered at the welcome reception. A total of 20 people, including participants from 6 countries and international referees, participated in the city sightseeing excursion, allowing them to experience the charm of Tsuruoka firsthand.

【Voices from Participants and Partners】

Participating Player: “Competing against high-level players was a great learning experience. I’m also happy to have made friends with players from different countries.”

Overseas Player: “I was able to experience Tsuruoka’s food culture and scenery, and everyone I met was friendly, making it a wonderful experience.”

Spectating Citizen: “I was happy to get autographs from players from various countries.”

【Challenges and Lessons Learned】

It was felt that careful responses to individual player needs, such as halal options, are necessary. Therefore, for future tournaments, efforts will be made to conduct more thorough information gathering in advance to ensure a more satisfying experience for both participating athletes and citizens.

【URL】

https://international-badminton-u16.jp/