- Seeking Event Partners Nationwide
Pickup Playground, led by Representative Director Naoyuki Akiba, is broadening the reach of its independently organized event, “PICK UP PLAYGROUND * PUP,” which has previously taken place in Yoyogi Park, Komazawa Park, and other Tokyo locations. The initiative combines basketball games with community clean-up activities, aiming to foster dialog between park administrators and users while nurturing new communities and shared spaces. The association is inviting individuals to host PUP events in their local areas, offering free official approval, event know-how, and branded clean-up kits.The campaign runs from April to August 2022, and interested parties are encouraged to apply.
Application form URL: https://pickupplayground.jp
【Application Guidelines】
◆ Application Period: March 14th (Monday) to March 27th (Sunday), 2022, until 23:59
◆ Venue: Open spaces like parks are preferred, though paid facilities such as gyms are also acceptable.
* Note: The event must be free for participants.
◆ Organizer Eligibility: Open to all ages and genders
* Support for event coordination is essential.
◆ Expected Participant Count: Minimum of 20 attendees
◆ Event Frequency: Multiple times annually
* Organizers should commit to hosting the event regularly at the same location.
◆ Reporting Requirements: Photos (or videos) and a written summary
* Reports must be submitted post-event.
◆ Cost Responsibility: Organizers cover venue expenses.
Clean-up Kit donation: Gloves,tongs,and garbage bags will be provided by the headquarters.
“PICK UP PLAYGROUND” is a forward-thinking initiative designed to ensure the continued presence and growth of basketball courts in parks across Japan. Inspired by the concept of pick-up games, were players spontaneously form teams in public spaces, the event also incorporates trash collection around the courts.Participants of all ages and genders engage in basketball games, followed by a collective clean-up effort. This fosters connections, encourages daily conversations, and strengthens community bonds. The ultimate goal is to cultivate a sense of ownership among court users, leading to self-governance and the establishment of usage guidelines based on shared values.
- Inaugural Pop-Up Store at Daikanyama Tsutaya Books Starting March 16th
“PICK UP PLAYGROUND” will debut its first pop-up store at daikanyama Tsutaya Books from March 16th to March 31st, 2022. The store will showcase the initiative’s mission and background, alongside a curated collection from five brands: [AKTR], [ALL DAY], [ballaholic], [SOMECITY], and [TACHIKARA]. This is a unique opportunity to explore products previously available primarily through each brand’s e-commerce platforms.
【PICK UP PLAYGROUND POP UP STORE at Daikanyama T-SITE】
◆ Dates: March 16th (Wednesday) to March 31st (Thursday), 2022
◆ Location: Daikanyama Tsutaya Books, Building No. 1, 1F
◆ Hours: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM *Aligned with Tsutaya Bookstore’s operating hours
◆ Highlights: Sales of the PICK UP PLAYGROUND collection from five brands
Special exhibition showcasing the PICK UP PLAYGROUND initiative
About Pickup Playground
The “PICK UP PLAYGROUND” project was initiated by five brands deeply rooted in the basketball scene: [AKTR], [ALL DAY], [ballaholic], [TACHIKARA], and [SOMECITY]. It traces its origins to 2005 when Nike Japan donated two basketball courts to Yoyogi Park in Shibuya, Tokyo. Over the past 17 years, the initiative has evolved into a collaborative effort to promote basketball and community engagement. The brands have released a special “PICK UP PLAYGROUND” collection, with a portion of the proceeds donated to a general incorporated association. These funds are used to create clean-up kits, which are then distributed free of charge to basketball courts nationwide, fostering an eco-kind cycle.
Company Overview
Company Name: Pickup Playground
Representative Director: Naoyuki Akiba (ALLDAY Producer / managing Director of NPO Composition)
Director: Wataru Takahashi (Representative Director, Tachikara Holdings Co., Ltd.)
Yoshikazu Tanamachi (ballaholic brand director / out number Co.,Ltd.)
Hiroyuki Nitta (Representative Director, Sennichi Shoten Co., Ltd.)
Website: https://pickupplayground.jp
Moderating the “PICK UP PLAYGROUND” Initiative: A Framework for Success
As a seasoned sports moderator with extensive experience in fostering meaningful dialogue and engaging diverse audiences, I am thrilled to explore the innovative “PICK UP PLAYGROUND” (PUP) initiative.This program, which combines basketball games with community clean-up activities, is a brilliant example of how sports can serve as a catalyst for community building and environmental stewardship. Below, I outline key strategies for moderating and amplifying the impact of such events, drawing insights from the provided information and best practices in event moderation.
Key Elements of Moderation for “PICK UP PLAYGROUND”
- Setting the Tone and Agenda
A moderator’s primary role is to set the tone and pace of the event, ensuring it aligns with the organizer’s vision [[3]]. For PUP events, the tone should be inclusive, energetic, and community-focused. The agenda could include:
– An opening welcome that highlights the dual purpose of the event: fostering community through basketball and promoting environmental responsibility.
– Clear guidelines for the basketball games and clean-up activities.
– Time for participants to share their experiences and reflections.
- Creating a Warm and Encouraging Atmosphere
A prosperous moderator fosters a welcoming habitat where participants feel valued and motivated to engage [[2]]. For PUP events,this could involve:
– Acknowledging the efforts of the organizers and participants.
– Using humor and enthusiasm to keep the energy high while maintaining professionalism [[1]].
– Encouraging participants of all ages and genders to actively participate in both the games and clean-up activities.
- Facilitating Dialogue and Connection
The PUP initiative aims to foster dialogue between park administrators, users, and participants. As a moderator, my role would include:
– Introducing park administrators and encouraging them to share their perspectives on the importance of shared spaces.
– Creating opportunities for participants to voice their ideas on how to improve and maintain basketball courts.
– Summarizing key points and ideas to ensure the conversation remains focused and productive [[2]].
- encouraging Long-Term Commitment
One of PUP’s goals is to cultivate a sense of ownership among court users, leading to self-governance and the establishment of usage guidelines. To support this, a moderator can:
– Highlight the importance of regular participation and community involvement.
– Encourage organizers to host events multiple times annually and build a recurring presence in their local areas.
– Share success stories from other PUP events to inspire participants to take action.
Practical Tips for PUP Event Moderation
- Readiness: Familiarize yourself with the event’s goals, participants, and logistics.Collaborate with organizers to understand their vision and expectations [[3]].
- Engagement: Use interactive techniques such as Q&A sessions, group discussions, and icebreaker activities to keep participants engaged.
- Visual Support: Leverage photos, videos, and branded clean-up kits to reinforce the event’s mission and create a lasting impression.
- Reporting: Ensure that post-event reports, including photos or videos and a written summary, are submitted promptly to document the event’s success and impact.
Conclusion
The “PICK UP PLAYGROUND” initiative is a powerful example of how sports can bring people together to achieve shared goals.As a moderator, my role is to amplify its impact by creating a welcoming atmosphere, facilitating meaningful dialogue, and encouraging long-term community engagement. By adhering to best practices in moderation and leveraging the unique strengths of this program, we can ensure that PUP events continue to thrive and inspire communities nationwide.
For those interested in hosting a PUP event in their local area, I encourage you to apply during the designated period and take advantage of the resources and support provided by the Pickup Playground team. Together, we can create a lasting legacy of community spirit and environmental responsibility.
submission form URL: https://pickupplayground.jp
