Japanese Paralympic Medallist Assumes Role as Head of the Nation's Sports Agency
Japan Sports Agency Welcomes First Paralympic Medalist as Commissioner
The Japan Sports Agency is set for a change in leadership, with Junichi Kawai, a decorated Paralympic athlete, taking over the top position from current commissioner Koji Murofushi on October 1.
Murofushi, who has been commissioner since 2020, will retire on September 30, marking the end of his term. The Japan Sports Agency was launched in 2015 and has, for two consecutive terms, been led by Olympic gold medalists. With Kawai's appointment, the agency will break this tradition, marking a significant step towards broader inclusion of Paralympic achievements in its leadership history.
Kawai, a native of Shizuoka Prefecture in central Japan, is no stranger to the world of sports. He has participated in six consecutive Paralympic Games, starting with the 1992 Barcelona Games. Over the years, he has amassed an impressive collection of medals, including a total of 21, with five golds.
In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Kawai has also held leadership roles within the sports community. He served as the leader of the Japanese delegation at both the Tokyo Summer Paralympics in 2021 and the Beijing Winter Paralympics in 2022. He is also the chairman of the Japanese Paralympic Committee, a role he assumed in 2020.
The outgoing commissioner, Murofushi, was the second commissioner of the Japan Sports Agency. He has played a significant role in shaping the agency's direction during his tenure. Daichi Suzuki, a 58-year-old, was the first commissioner of the Japan Sports Agency.
As Kawai steps into his new role, he brings with him a wealth of experience and a passion for sports that is sure to guide the Japan Sports Agency in its mission to promote and support sports in Japan.
