What Pathways Exist for Tokyo Netball Members?
Despite netball being a minor sport in Japan, there are opportunities for people to participate at different levels. Being registered with a TNA club makes you eligible to participate in events at each level. This applies to players, coaches, umpires and other officials.
Netball in Japan
Local
-
The first level consists of local clubs, which are usually within the jurisdiction of a prefectural association.
-
They are open to everyone and often have regular weekly training sessions.
-
The local clubs will occasionally run their own events (social or competitive netball).
-
In Tokyo, local clubs are currently split into two types; Public (open to anyone) and University.
-
Competitions between local clubs are organised by their prefectural association.
Prefectural
-
The next level consists of competitions between prefectures, like the Tokaido Cup, which are co-organised by the participating prefectures.
-
Representative and development players are selected from local clubs within a prefecture.
-
Prefectural associations help submit teams for the All Japan Championships.
National
-
The Japan Netball Association selects players for the National* Team (Tsubaki Japan) as well as the National Youth and Men's teams.
-
National Teams participate in international competitions.
-
JNA runs national training sessions which are targeted at developing experienced players and umpire development clinics.
-
JNA also organises and hosts the All-Japan Championships.
Extra: Student Association
-
The Japan Student Netball Association is the governing body for University clubs.
-
Organises competitions and events just for current students.
-
Assists in the development of school clubs.
-
Works with prefectural associations and JNA.
*To play for Japan an individual must either have a Japanese passport or have been a resident of Japan for a minimum of two years before the international competition they will participate in.