In forming a bright and vigorous society, the realization of a lifelong sports society in which anyone can become familiar with sports at anytime, anywhere and for as long as they wish is a key challenge. Comprehensive community sports clubs are voluntary clubs managed by local residents on an autonomous basis. As well as contributing to the realization of a lifelong sports society as community-based sports centers active on a daily basis at nearby schools and public facilities, potential effects include taking responsibility for children’s sports activities in the local community, family interaction, the sound upbringing of youth through intergenerational exchange, and the maintenance and enhancement of health on the part of local residents.

 MEXT provides support for the development of comprehensive community sports clubs through guidance provided by touring club development managers and the provision of information on examples of sports club establishment. These efforts have resulted in the establishment of 2,905 comprehensive community sports clubs in 1,165 municipalities around Japan (as of July 2009).

(Policy Planning Division, Sports and Youth Bureau)