The Japan Wheelchair Rugby Federation (JWRF) is set to organize a charity match aimed at assisting in the recovery efforts from the Noto Peninsula Earthquake at the Kaga City Sports Hall in Ishikawa Prefecture on April 27, 2025. This event marks JWRF's first charity endeavor, inspired by a serious natural disaster that occurred on January 1, 2024. In this earthquake, Wajima City and Shika Town experienced maximum seismic intensities of 7, along with unfortunate tsunami damage.
Tomoaki Imai, a dedicated athlete involved with the Athlete School Dispatch Project known as Athreach, visited local schools shortly before the disaster, fostering connections with students that would come to deeply resonate following the tragic event. Imai had traveled to Kazehisesho Elementary School in Wajima City and Midorigaoka Junior High School in Suzu City just two months prior, showcasing his commitment to inspiring the younger generation.
The upcoming charity match will feature engaging demonstration games led by medalist athletes, offering an opportunity for attendees to witness high-level wheelchair rugby in action. There will also be experiential sessions designed for all age groups, allowing spectators to engage firsthand with the sport. Alongside the sports, various food booths contributed by local communities are part of the day's schedule, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere for visitors.
By hosting this charity match, JWRF aims not just to entertain but to create a powerful sense of community among those affected by the earthquake. "We hope to use wheelchair rugby as a means of revitalizing the spirits of those in Ishikawa Prefecture," said JWRF officials. The goal is to not only bring awareness to the impact of the Noto Peninsula Earthquake but also to extend a helping hand to residents working hard to rebuild their lives.
The event, which will run from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM, promises free entry to all attendees, making it accessible for everyone in the area. Located at the Kaga City Sports Hall, the venue is easily reachable via public transport, as visitors can take the IR Ishikawa Railway to the Daishoji station and walk a short 10 minutes to the facility. JWRF has made arrangements for those attending to bring indoor shoes, enhancing the comfort of guests within the hall.
To further engage potential supporters, special merchandise will be available for purchase during the charity match. The sale proceeds, after accounting for necessary expenses, will be entirely donated toward recovery efforts. Even those unable to attend the match can contribute by purchasing these special items at the "Mitsui Fudosan Wheelchair Rugby SHIBUYA CUP 2025" event occurring just days prior at the Yoyogi National Gymnasium from April 18 to 20.
The organized schedule for the charity match features various activities, ensuring a full day of engagement. It kicks off with doors opening at 10:30 am, followed by experience matches involving wheelchair rugby players against participants, scheduled for 11:00 am and again at 2:30 pm. Between these matches, medalist athletes will showcase their skills, providing spectators with a thrilling display of competitive sport.
At 11:30 am and noon, general public experience sessions will be held, giving attendees a chance to participate actively in wheelchair rugby and learn from the best. The final match is set to take place at 2:00 pm, drawing a robust conclusion to a day filled with competitive spirit and camaraderie.
Registration for the experience sessions is mandatory, with limited spots available. Those interested are encouraged to register early, as a lottery system may be employed should the number of requests exceed the available slots.
This charity event represents an important opportunity for JWRF and the local community to come together, demonstrating the strength and resilience of those affected by the earthquake through the powerful and unifying sport of wheelchair rugby. Participants and attendees at this event will not only experience sportsmanship in action but will also be part of a significant step toward community recovery.
For further information regarding registration for the experience sessions and other inquiries, interested parties can contact the Japan Wheelchair Rugby Federation’s Public Relations Department at [email protected].
