Pickleball Ambassador Shima Haruna Leads Instruction at Sakaimachi Sports Class in Ibaraki Prefecture

Pickleball Ambassador Shima Haruna Leads Instruction at Sakaimachi Sports Class in Ibaraki Prefecture

On Saturday, June 13, a pickleball experience class was held at the Sakaimachi Sports Class, featuring professional pickleball player Haruna Shima as the instructor.

Participants of all ages, from children to adults, gathered to learn the basic rules, racket handling, serving, and rallying techniques of pickleball—a sport gaining global attention—through practical, on-court drills. Shima provided clear and patient guidance, offering individual feedback and encouragement to help each participant improve their skills.

Shima shared, "Pickleball is a sport anyone can enjoy regardless of age or athletic experience. I’m delighted if this class inspires more people to discover its appeal." The Sakaimachi Sports Class will continue to offer diverse sports experiences aimed at enhancing community health and promoting sports participation.

Sakaimachi Sports Class Details

- Sports: Pickleball, Beach Ball Volleyball, Badminton - Dates: Saturdays from June to October, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (15 sessions total) - Venue: Sakaimachi Town Gymnasium (540 Kamikohashi, Sakaimachi, Inashiki District, Ibaraki Prefecture) - Instructors: Sakaimachi Sports Promotion Committee

Profile of Shima Haruna, Pickleball Regional Revitalization Team Member

### Education

- Faculty of Sports and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University - Graduate School of Sports and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University

### Major Pickleball Achievements

- Rankings as of October 1, 2025 - PPA Tour: WS 98th / WD 151st / XD 144th - PPA Tour Asia: WS 10th / WD 43rd - ※ WS: Women’s Singles, WD: Women’s Doubles, XD: Mixed Doubles

- 2025 World Cup Japanese Representative - PPA Tour: Australia Pickleball Open 2024 - Women’s Doubles: Main Draw Round 2 - Mixed Doubles: Main Draw Round 2 - Women’s Singles: Main Draw Round 1 - Women’s Doubles (Skill 4.5+): 3rd Place - PPA Tour: Vulcan Orlando Cup 2024 – Women’s Singles (Skill): 3rd Place - Asia Pickleball Games 2024 – Women’s Doubles: Top 8 - OB Open Pickleball Championships 2024 – Mixed Doubles: Top 8 - PJF Pickleball Championships in Japan 2024 – Mixed Doubles: 4th Place

### Future Goals

"I believe pickleball is a sport that fosters human connections. As an athlete competing globally, I aim to spread its charm while leveraging my experience in disaster relief and preventive care to contribute to the physical and mental well-being of Sakaimachi residents and create a vibrant, joyful community.

My major goal is to energize and revitalize both Sakaimachi and Japan as a whole through pickleball, with the support of the community. I will continue to challenge myself with full commitment to achieve this."