Okayama University was selected to participate in the Japan Sports Agency’s FY 2018 Sports Industry Growth Promotion Project (Stadium and Arena Development Project), which supports progressive initiatives in stadium and arena development.

This project is designed to support the management of public-private councils established to construct new or renovate existing stadiums and arenas—sports infrastructure—and to promote progressive initiatives, such as the creation of an innovative concept for a stadium or arena. Four other organizations were selected to participate in this project.

Under this project, Okayama University will support efforts towards the construction of a next-generation arena that can contribute to the regional economic growth. The new arena is expected to serve as a training facility and home arena for leading sports clubs in Okayama, including the Okayama Seagulls, a women’s volleyball team, which does not have its own training facility. The arena is also expected to serve as a disaster management center and community center where local residents can gather to interact.