Ms. HATANAKA Kimiyo (second from the right in the back row), Mr. SONOHARA Takehiro, Head Coach of the Athletic Club (right in the back row), together with the female athletes and team manager
The women’s team room for the Athletic Club has been newly established by utilizing the “HATANAKA Kimiyo Athlete Fund,” which is financed through a donation from Ms. HATANAKA Kimiyo (graduated from the School of Arts and Letters in 1967), an alumna of the Tennis Club. This initiative marks the first project supported by the fund.
On March 28, 2026, a handover ceremony for the facility was held with Ms. Hatanaka in attendance.
Ms. Hatanaka commented, “During my student days, I practiced on the tennis courts at Hachiman-yama, but at that time, the environment for female athletes was not well developed. I hope that this newly established room will contribute to the further advancement of women’s sports and to your continued success. I also encourage you to devote yourselves not only to sports but to your academic studies as well.”
Ms. Hatanaka delivering a message
Following her remarks, SHIINA Himari (3rd-year, School of Political Science and Economics), speaking on behalf of two current female athletes from the Athletic Club, shared her aspirations: “We are very happy to finally have a dedicated space of our own. I hope to achieve a personal best and qualify for the Kanto Intercollegiate Championships.”
In addition, WAKAUMI Yuka (4th-year, School of Agriculture), the team manager, presented Ms. Hatanaka with a team warm-up jacket for ekiden races as a token of appreciation.
The Sports Promotion Headquarters will continue to make strategic use of this fund to further improve the training environment for female athletes.
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