On May 16, 2026, at Lemon Gas Stadium Hiratsuka in Kanagawa Prefecture, the community co-creation project 'Shonan Kodomo Mirai Mare' invited four elementary school soccer teams, totaling over 50 children, to a free viewing of the Meiji Yasuda J-League match between Shonan Bellmare and Vegalta Sendai.
Children from local Shonan soccer teams gathered at the stadium, experiencing the excitement of a J-League match from the stands. After the match, a special program was held where children could actually step onto the natural grass pitch where the professional players had just competed.
As evening fell over the stadium, children touched the turf and looked around the vast stadium with sparkling eyes. This was more than just a viewing event; it was a moment for them to feel the 'distance to their dreams' closing.
'Shonan Kodomo Mirai Mare' is a regional project designed to deliver 'authentic experiences' to children by connecting local businesses and sports. By providing exposure to professional sports environments and the passion of the community, the project aims to create an environment where children can take pride in their hometown. During the post-match pitch experience, children were seen running around and feeling the texture of the natural grass.
In recent years, issues such as the 'experience gap' among children and the dilution of local communities have become social concerns. Regional clubs like Shonan Bellmare hold significant power to address these issues. Among the participants, many were watching a J-League game live for the first time, and voices saying 'I want to come back' or 'I want to play on this pitch someday' were heard. The project aims to turn local admiration into dreams and nurture them within the entire community.
'Shonan Kodomo Mirai Mare' plans to continue delivering 'life-changing experiences' to children in the Shonan area through free invitations, sports clinics, and regional educational activities.
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: Event