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University Athletes Shine at UNIVAS Awards 2024-25
| Category | Winner | Award | Institution/Team | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Special Appearance | Wolf Aron, Miyawaki Hanami, Doi Remii Anri | (Guests) | Japanese athletes | Three notable Japanese athletes shared their insights and encouraged the next generation. |
| UNIVAS Chair Message | Norihiko Fukuhara (UNIVAS Chairman) | (Speech) | National Institution | Highlighted the importance of university sports in fostering human skills and resilience, celebrating the legacy of Japanese Olympic success. |
| Man of the Year | Keihata Imazaki | Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award, Grand Prize | Teikyo University, Hardball Baseball Club | Moved crowd with humility, expressing gratitude for the support of coaches and teammates, especially cycling team, pushing through adversities. |
| Woman of the Year | Kamino Yume | Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award, Grand Prize | Chukyo University, Swimming Club | Nominated for her commitment to both academics and athletics, aiming for 2028 Olympics. |
| Para Athlete of the Year | Kaoru Kondou | Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award, Grand Prize | Gifu Kyoriku University Swimming Club | Praised for overcoming challenges in para swimming, inspiring fellow athletes and fans alike. |
| Almunai Award | Miya Yuko, Chairman of the Japan Basketball Association | (Guest Lecture) | (Japan Basketball Association) | Reflections on her career, advice on embracing opportunities and challenges in university and beyond, pushing boundaries. |
| Rookie of the Year | Rin Maeda, Tomoyuki Matsushita | Deputy Representation | Pacific University, Women’s Judo Club, Toyo University, Swimming Club | New faces shaking up the athletic scene, drawing attention and praise for their youthful energy. |
| Supporting Staff of the Year | Danya Kobayashi | (Athletic Association Supporter Brass Orchestra) | Meijo University | Recognized for exemplary dedication and support, bolstering athletic endeavors. |
| Coach of the Year | Mimaro Yanagawa | Substitute Representation | Ikuei University, Wrestling Club | Able strategy and coaching, leading wrestling into new realms of achievement, highlighting athlete-centric approach. |
| Dual Career Development Support Excellence Award | Aichi University | (Grand Prize) | Aichi University | Efforts in harmonizing academic and athletic excellence, providing balanced growth opportunities. |
| Excellence of Safety and Security Environment Construction | Niigata University of Health and Welfare | (Grand Prize) | Niigata University | Standards for safety and security ensuring athletes thrive in a secure setting, example for all. |
| University Sports Promotion Excellence Award | Kwansei Gakuin University | (Grand Prize) | Kwansei Gakuin University | Driving student sports participation to new heights, setting an example in active sports. |
| University Sports Organization Management Award | Juntendo University | (Director-General of Sports Agency Award) | Juntendo University | Masterful organization and execution, ensuring robust university athletics environment. |
Additional Context and Key Insights
- 190 aspiring athletes vying for 2024-25 winners, showcasing the vibrant culture within university athletics, applause for UNIVAS vision.
- Graduates transitioning from student to professional careers, driven by the valuables learned in sports, attacking goals with enthusiasm.
- Celebrating a student-centric approach by UNIVAS, nurturing the athletes’ dreams via comprehensive support.
UNIVAS: A Beacon for University Sports in Japan
The University Sports Association aims to enhance the learning and athletic environments, promoting safe, secure, and high-value university sports. The Association integrates diverse experiences, promotes personal growth, and equips students with critical skills for a successful future.
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