Positioning of High-School Athletic Clubs in Depopulated Areas: Case Study of Takachiho High School Kendo Club

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to illustrate the functional connection between high-school athletic clubs and the local community in depopulated areas of Japan and to clarify the position of those clubs in repopulated areas. The research target was the Kendo Club of Takachiho High School located in a mountainous area of Miyazaki prefecture. The club has achieved excellent competition results since the 1950s with the support of parents, alumni, and administrative and economic organizations in the town of Takachiho and the Miyazaki Prefectural Board of Education. The activities of the Kendo Club are a source of pride for Takachiho residents. Many townspeople believe that the club represents Takachiho High School and consider Takachiho to be a “kendo town.” The club has become an important management resource of Takachiho High School and has been regarded as a means of revitalizing Takachiho in recent years. Athletic clubs in depopulated areas can be an effective means of developing attractive schools and revitalizing communities. However, it is necessary to ensure practices of education that meet the expectations of parents for academic achievement as well as various club activities.