Love for Basketball and Community/ THE "LBC" PROJECT: Japanese youth share W-O-R-L-D-W-I-D-E dreams
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>View discussions about this entry Country: Japan
Organization: Good Global Games (g3)
Sport: Basketball
Year the initative began (yyyy) 2007
Project URL: http://goodglobalgames.org coming Jan. 2008
Positioning in the Mosaic of solutions
What is your signature innovation, your new idea, in one sentence? The "LBC" Project offers a unique opportunity for the young Japanese community- to interact with its neighbors in E. Asia and beyond, through sport.
Describe your innovation. What makes your idea unique and different than others doing work in the field? Streetball leagues already exist in E. Asia, and have been growing in popularity over the past few years. They serve as an innovative way to teach self-expression, confidence and esteem-building. The sport also gives young players a chance to emulate their idols from the NBA/AND1 game. A stronger sense of identity has gradually been built in the international sports world (in baseball+soccer). Now young Japanese basketball players are showing signs of readiness for THE NEXT STEP... The growing concern for many Japanese citizens today is how will Japan choose to further engage itself on the global level? Through participating in war? Through peaceful action? This is what the LBC Project will offer Japanese youth: a chance to play peacefully, and build friendship with other communities around the world. The LBC will not only provide a bridge for young players, but also involve programs for leadership training and development as well.
What are the existing barriers, the biggest problem, your innovation is hoping to address/change? The biggest problem Japan is faced with is lack of participation= no avenue for a chance to play. That, in combination with historical issues in the region, make sport-for-peace initiatives almost non-existent between Japan,China, or Korea (please correct me if I'm wrong). While Japanese fans are envious of the basketball boom in neighboring China, they could also become more active. An alternative project such as the LBC could be the best way to increase participation and find reconciliation in the process.
Delivery Model: How do you implement your innovation and apply it to the challenge/problem you are addressing? The LBC Project launch is planned to coincide with the Beijing Summer Olympics 2008. A street youth basketball team from Tokyo will be organized through an on-line process. Players must show an interest in learning about other cultures, a basic English (or Chinese) conversational ability, some basketball experience, and be at least 20 years old. Additional background and personal bio's will be collected and evaluated. In preparation for the Olympic events, the participants will be involved in various educational, environmental, and sport programs. This will provide training and leadership building activities for street youth, such as language learning/recycle/volunteer/cross-cultural+community outreach. The LBC will also receive support from local players, community members, Universities, and Olympic Committee representatives in Beijing. With careful planning, our team members will enjoy a busy 10-14 days: living in a small community "hutong", studying Chinese, playing streetball with local youth, participating in cultural events surrounding the Olympic venues, and attending the Games. Full participation is the key.
How do you plan to grow your innovation? Surely 2008 is an opportunity not to be missed, considering this upcoming Olympics will take place in the NEW "basketball capitol of the world"- with an estimated 300,000,000 basketball fans now watching/playing/loving the game. As Japanese street youth are always interested in the current trends of today (which is EXTREMELY important here, for anything to be successful or long-term), the movement toward volunteerism and international community outreach through sport continues to grow. The goal for this innovation is to develop something similar to the Basketball-without-Borders mission, but with more direct interaction between the Northeast Asian region, specifically. The LBC, and my organization GoodGlobalGames are just the beginning of a new platform I would like to grow here in Japan, to enable young athletes from all over NE Asia to find out more about the volunteer and service-oriented positions that are now available through sport. My organization should act as a regional coordinating office for 'peace and sport' initiatives.
Provide one sentence describing your impact/intended impact. The LBC works with young street athletes, building future leaders of tomorrow and bridges of friendship, for the international community.
What impact has your innovation had to date/or what is your intended impact? Exactly who are the beneficiaries? As I stated before, I was the first individual or group from Northeast Asia to post an entry on this competition. I'm happy to see more have joined since then! I recently spent time in China with scholars and sports directors at Tsinghua, Peking, and Beijing Sports Universities, encouraging them to consider new UN agendas, and join in the Sport and Development process locally. Future joint research projects are a strong possibility. In terms of the beneficiaries of my project, the younger generation of Japan, as well as youth in China/Korea (ages 13-30) are likely to be most interested; those who may have lost their hope or direction in life, haven't found a job yet, or are looking to channel their love for sport. China also faces a huge dilemma about what to do for their retiring athletes. My projects and organization could offer those individuals with a service-oriented alternative.
Please list any other measures reflective of the impact of your innovation? Peking University, Tsinghua University, Beijing Sports University, as well as my own university (International Christian Univ. here in Japan) have all been contacted, and leaders/sports department directors are interested in the value of the project. The potential to open up stronger lines of communication between the academic/research community in E. Asia will help bring the Sport for Peace and Development movement to the region. Surprisingly, most all of those contacted had never even heard of the movement before...
What are the main barriers to creating or achieving your impact? Shyness, height disadvantages, and building confidence to go abroad. Postwar E. Asian diplomacy, making for a still somewhat prevalent lack of trust. Cultural/historical fears and ambivalence, slow process of "familiarization" allowed by government. Generational thought gaps- about the best way to move forward into the 21st century, as a war-fighting nation or not. "To the Future" is the current recruitment campaign for the Japanese Self-Defense Forces. Ask the government for help campaigning for Sport and Development?
How is your initiative financed (or how do you expect your initiative will be financed)? Finances for the LBC will come mainly from sponsorship (both in Tokyo and the host city). Local universities and organizations such as BOCOG have shown interest in helping with the project. However, those sponsors and donors are still yet to be officially determined. As of now, I am funding the web-site creation, project development and field research trips, with my personal funds. The project success depends a great deal on this NIKE/Changemakers.net competition, with all proceeds of the $5,000 prize to be directly applied to The LBC. Every penny will help make this project a reality. Regardless, investing money in youth outreach programs is money well spent, so on with The LBC...
If known, provide information on your finances and organization. This field has not been completed
What is the potential demand for your innovation? The LBC project has the potential to become a type of "DreamTeam" foundation for young street basketball players all over the world, not only limited to Japan. Japanese youth, like so many others, whether rich or poor, share this LOVE for BASKETBALL and COMMUNITY. The more we play together, our fears and feelings of hate become diffused. From this point, we can develop stronger relationships and communication between the youth of nations within Northeast Asia, and abroad.
What are the main barriers to financial sustainability? Keeping something trendy or interesting for Japanese young people is one thing, but to do it as a 'foreigner' in Japan is quite another. Convincing the sponsors (corporate or private) that the project will turn out to be a success could be seen as a major challenge to financial sustainability. Some issues of trust can certainly be overcome, however. By speaking the language and respecting business customs, the project should gain more support with each successful event.
What is the origin of this innovation? Tell us your story. I have been playing basketball for 25 years. My name on the court has ranged from several degrading nicknames which I shall not mention here, to others such as "Big Milk" and "Wonder Bread." I understand that at the end of the day, if I can respect you, I can respect your game and everything else that comes with you. And vice versa. I have spent my entire life trying to figure out how sports could lead to bigger, more meaningful changes than just learning to accept people (which is a huge accomplishment, I know). Now we have a new generation of "hoop dreams," and streetball culture. The legends of the court, the "flashiest" individuals, the ballers who make it to the ranks of AND1, and so on- they are fun to watch! On the other hand I would like to see the people "on the under" and who work so hard, get something back. This is to give Respect to the little guy, the big guy, whoever it is. Those who have heart, and are willing to play as a team, in the name of Love for Basketball and Community. This is a chance to have fun, learn about cultural diversity, and build future leaders. Its truly a project I had always wanted to join as a kid, growing up. I guess we didn't have NBA community activities in our neighborhood :) I was always so jealous though.
Please provide a personal bio. Note this may be used in Changemakers marketing material. Born in Portland, OR/USA. Began playing basketball at around 5 years old, in a predominantly black neighborhood. Sports helped break race/cultural barriers very early on in my life; sport also motivated me to develop a healthier life style; encouraged a stronger work-ethic; and more social interaction. I was the only person in my family to go to college. I'm honored to be studying for a Master's degree in Japan, as a Rotary World Peace Fellow.
Contact Information:
Jason Hutson
Rotary World Peace Fellow, Class VI Good Global Games (g3) (NGO) Discussions about this entry |
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Kevin Carroll
Changemakers Featured Commentator
Sport for a Better World Competition
Jason, your initiative has a great deal of potential & opportunity. I’d like to know a bit more about your plans to create a social impact when you go to Beijing and other destinations. The understanding of other cultures will naturally occur wherever you venture with your team but, could you accomplish even more beyond the celebration of the game with these other like-minded and passion-filled ballers from other nations? I think your effort also has a message of personal development and leadership. It seems like there could be an additional focus to your effort around developing emerging leaders – driving home the idea and importance of Leadership and leadership development on and off the court. I think you are onto a good idea creating a hoops squad that journeys around the globe and celebrates the passion for the game. I would couple that with another “lesson” from the game and create opportunities for cross-cultural discussions, exchanges, and teachings/curriculum around the bigger topic of being a leader – a look beyond the game. I hope this make sense? I think you have the makings of a BIG idea and I believe that you would be able to gain more momentum & support with a bit more development around it.
FYI, make sure to connect with Mark from H4H - he's got it goin' on and could be a fantastic resource for you!
Continued success, Jason…
Kevin, I checked your BLOG man. Awesome work. Thanks for your comments here (and there).
http://www.kevincarrollkatalyst.com/index.html
I must say... first of all, you are doing everything I have been trying to get involved with, since I began my research over here in Japan. Great to see you contributing so much to the field. I would like to follow in your footsteps and get a similar community platform or website going, with local sport-for-peace enthusiasts here in Asia. I know many organizations are working hard here, and already doing great work. Global Sports Alliance is one of them I have been in contact with already. Any advice on bringing those organizations closer together? Maybe we can keep in touch by email, if you have the time.
I appreciate what you say about the importance of teaching leadership. And yes- the possibilities for a BIGGER social impact with the LBC are there for sure. I'm looking forward to Spring '08 when we can begin the selection process for the members of our "crew", and start working on the development of our young leaders. Of course it would be fun to just go and play, and then come back with a sense of excitement and build off of that. Definitely more work and effort to be done though. This will involve language learning, volunteer activities, and cross-cultural outreach. These have all been mapped out for my project, in advance. Perhaps I need to work them into my project description to be clear. But very similar to the suggestions you made, so we are on the same page! Thanks for looking out for me and the LBC :)
Finally, a short update, I'm happy to say I have just returned from a successful trip to Beijing. I stayed in a local "hutong" area, met local streetballers (and played too), and presented my project to the BOCOG vice chairman.
Kevin Carroll
Changemakers Featured Commentator
Sport for a Better World Competition
Thanks for your comments here & on my blog, Jason! I'm glad to read that the leadership development component is a part of your plans. Including that aspect will provide even mopre value to your work via hoops. I'm sure your recent visit to Beijing was remarkable & it sounds like it was an empowering moment for your work/efforts too. Please keep me posted on your progress and feel free to email me directly - kc@katalystconsultancy.com
Peace, respect & much success in '08 to you, Jason!
Kevin
Hi Jason,
Your heart is in the right place and we commend you on using the great game of basketball to bring people together in a postive way and bridge gaps in cultures. There is never enough of this and would like to invite you to contact our people working so hard to bring basketball and vital lifeskills to children around southern Africa. I am sure there are many lessons to be shared and learned. We currently have a great Japanese friend who is volunteering in the small city of Gweru, Zimbabwe who has been doing wonders for the game and children there and would be happy to connect you two. All the best in your endeavours.
Best, Mark
Mark Crandall
Hoops 4 Hope
hoops4hope@mac.com
www.hoopsafrica.org
I sent you a private message to your .mac address quite some time ago... Not sure if you ever actually received it. So, I might as well reply again here, just in case.
Reading through your entry I noticed, first of all, that you were also involved with Rotary early on. We are moving on the same path, it seems :) I'm looking forward to collaborating with local Rotary clubs here in Japan, as well as organizations like yours. Perhaps you could tell me more about how (or to what capacity) you were able to work with Rotary along the way.
I believe the days when Japanese young people are working, playing, and volunteering with their neighbors here in E. Asia are not too far off. Its reassuring to hear that some Japanese are already involved in overseas basketball outreach programs. Please do put me in contact with your friend there in Zimbabwe, if possible. I would love to get more involved with Hoops4Hope and learn more about the process of implementation. We have a unique 'set' of problems here in E. Asia, one might say. However, the benefits that can be attained through sport, are the same- I believe. Much to learn from you, Mark! Thanks for being of service to the LBC!! And best of luck in the competition.
Jason Hutson
Rotary World Peace Fellow
Tokyo, Japan
Hi Jason,
wow, changemakers is a place to learn. I had no idea there was a basketball surge in Asia right now. Your project seems a good attention raiser for this sport in Japan. You seem to be concerned about gaps and wall between East Asian countries and problems that you feel have arisen out of post ww2 diplomacy, an lack of intercultural contact that you want to see fought by sport programs. Can you tell me a little more about that, i.e. what you think is behind that and why there are so little programs, as you say, like yours on changemakers and elsewhere? This is not history lesson, of course, but some background here would be much appreciated.
Jasper Nicolaisen
Free University Berlin
University Challenge
As for the boom in the Asian basketball market, there have been quite a few articles about this topic over the past few months, in leading up to the current NBA season. You can google the words "China" and "NBA" and you will probably get a few billion links...:) okay, exaggerating a little bit there, but you know what I mean.
You were asking about diplomacy, and how I will "fight" the lack of intercultural contact. I guess I would rather use a different word. How about "encourage" more than is currently allowed? The idea of CHANGE (Changemakers may want to look into this*) is generally not much of a welcomed topic here. What is the current political stance, you are wondering? Well, some might argue that its not as bad as it was 10 years ago. A little change has actually come about.
For example, a culture ban was partially lifted between Japan and S. Korea in 1998. Then further lifted again in 2003. This provided some flexibility for the citizens of the two countries to interact on a deeper level and learn more about each other. Japan has had the nickname "Korea's geographically close but emotionally distant neighbor" for quite some time, but this might be changing. Hopefully the same improvements in relations between Japan and China are progressing further in the right direction as well. 2007 has been declared the Official Year of Culture and Sports Exchange between China and Japan. So Im hoping there will be more projects like these promoted here in the coming years.
Hope this gives you a better idea, without getting too much into the history side of it.
Thanks for asking, and what do you think about E. Asian diplomacy as a barrier for the project's success? Is that too big of a statement? Maybe I should narrow it down in the wording of my entry.
I appreciate your comments, Steve. My explanations of those two sections may have been a bit misleading. As for the timing of the project launch with the Olympics, I realize the project could begin anytime. This is just a matter of planning, setting up the web-site + competition, assuring necessary funds/sponsorship, etc. which will take approximately 6-8 months= 08/08 Olympics in Beijing. If I could do it sooner, I would consider it. But the logistics make the Olympics a perfect fit, in my opinion. I agree with your suggestion though.
Second, in terms of sponsorship, I believe I said I will try to keep the corporate sponsorship and "selling" of the project to a minimum. This doesn't mean to imply that I will try to build the project without any form at all. Rather I understand that I need to bring this project into partnership with corporations to push it along, so to speak, in its early stages. At the same time, I need to make sure I keep the focus on learning about different cultures (for the kids), and not about getting to wear a certain logo or drink a certain soft drink...all though it certainly helps encourage the kids. No disagreement there either.
As for Japanese companies, I have a few interesting local businesses that will add some new flavor to the sport. The wheels are turning. By the way, what were your experiences involved with here in Japan, if you don't mind my asking? I'm interested to hear about that.
Perhaps I need to go back and tweak those portions of my entry. I will reconsider the wording a little bit.
Thanks again for your suggestions, and I look forward to hearing more from you or anyone else on the board!
Gambarimashou ne (good luck to everyone).
Jason Hutson
Jason, I share your conviction that Japanese athletes will soon have an impact on the NBA, much as Japanese ballplayers have made their presence decisively known in Major League Baseball. And given the Japanese commitment to excellence in all arenas in which they participate, we can count on your being right.
I read your entry with two questions, however: First, I wonder if you really need the platform of the upcoming Beijing Summer Olympic Games to launch your efforts? Of course the Games will rivet world attention on many sports, including basketball, but I suspect that you've discovered an untapped national interest among the Japanese for greater participation in basketball that would exist with or without the Summer Games.
In additiont, you might reconsider your objection to any form of corporate sponsorship for LBC. I think that many Japanese companies would be willing to help underwrite the Project and do so in ways that wouldn't coop or distort the purpose that you intend for it. It's been my experience that Japanese corporations appreciate the value of supporting community activities, and that they do so without the specific intention of reducing these activities to unabashed marketing efforts for theselves. I admire your intent to keep the LBC pure, but I think that you can do so even with corporate sponsorship.
Steve Byars
Marshall School of Business
University of Southern California