Rakuten Group, in collaboration with Setagaya Ward where its headquarters is located, has launched the project 'A BETTER FUTURE TOGETHER Dance Project', utilizing the basketball court of the Ikenoue Youth Exchange Center 'Ikesei' that they have jointly developed.This project, which has so far delivered audition scenes and rehearsal landscapes, is finally coming to a climax.What did Director Reiko want to convey through this project about the "value of sports" and what "taking on challenges" means?Captured here is the image of the ABFT Dance Crew, who, along with their companions, realize their dreams as they embrace the actual performance.

The World University Basketball Series 2023, also known as WUBS, was held at the National Yoyogi Stadium Second Gymnasium, a major venue for university Basketball.In the venue of this tournament, which is the focus of people and stakeholders who support the team, as well as elites gathered from both within the country and abroad, there were members dressed in matching outfits.Less than two months since the audition, there must have been many moments when you felt nervous and anxious.However, their expressions are very bright and lively.”Just enjoy yourself.”Suddenly, I remembered the teachings of Reiko during rehearsal.Approximately 3 minutes per halftime.Their culmination of efforts to fulfill their dreams was indeed just as the saying goes, brimming with smiles and confidence.Charmed by such a sight, the venue erupts in applause.Smiles spill over onto the faces of the spectators.The members also caught the eye while showcasing lively dances based on HIPHOP and Jazz, repeatedly waving their hands towards the back of the audience seats.”Performances filled with emotion have the power to uplift others, and even ourselves,” says Reiko.

“Even if you don’t do sports, and even if you don’t watch them, daily life continues.However, sports have the power to move people, bring smiles to their faces, and deliver happiness.I believe that there lies the meaning of sports.In our case, we want to brighten and energize the future through dance.”I would like to carry forward such thoughts into the future,”

A bright future that can be created through sports.Reiko shared her feelings, saying, “Through this project, I was able to convey them to the ABFT Dance crew.”

“I love Dance, but more than that, I am deeply moved by dancing as a team and overcoming difficult times together, which has led me to where I am now.Therefore, I wanted the ABFT Dance Crew to not just dance, but to feel the value in everyone performing together with their hearts.I believe the members properly understood that matter.This time, not only the women who participated in the project, but also those who are heading towards the path they want to pursue, I hope they will move forward without fearing to “take on challenges”.By taking on challenges, you can understand where you currently stand and how much further you need to go to reach your goals.”Even if it doesn’t lead to the result you might expect, there is always a meaning in taking up challenges.”

From auditions to the actual performance, while continuously involved in everything, it seems that Reiko has not only imparted her own Dance experience to the next generation, but has also learned from the ABFT Dance crew, who come from diverse backgrounds.

“Having directly experienced the different environments and motivations of each member was, for me, the greatest stimulation.”And, I feel that it would be great if we could make such activities more open.”We hope that through projects where people can watch and cheer together until the end, we can deliver dreams and energy to even more people.”

As long as there are people who challenge for their dreams, the path to the future of sports will continue to be illuminated.

TEXT: Keisuke Honda PHOTO: Masato Ura