Osaka Bluteon Creates an Inclusive Fan Experience Through Sign Language
Participants enjoying a sign language experience in a friendly atmosphere
On December 6, 2025, Osaka Bluteon--a men's volleyball club operated by Panasonic Sports Co., Ltd.--carried out an initiative to promote understanding of sign language, in collaboration with the sports brand hummel. Guided by the club's mission, "ALWAYS TO THE TOP, ALL WAYS TOGETHER," the activity aimed to create an inclusive spectator experience where everyone can share the excitement and energy of the game.
This initiative was the first of its kind for a men's SV League team. It was planned and managed primarily by Panasonic Sports employees with hearing impairments, in cooperation with the Panasonic Group's sign language club.
Before the game, a sign language experience booth was set up, where approximately 170 people learned how to sign players' names and cheers. In the arena, spectators in the cheering section practiced supporting the team using sign language together. During warm-ups, players wore hummel "Sign Language T-shirts" to show their support for people with hearing impairments. These T-shirts will later be auctioned off for charity, with a portion of the proceeds supporting people with hearing impairments in the club's hometown.
Players Yuji Nishida, Hiroto Nishiyama, Tomohiro Yamamoto, and Antoine Brizard (from left) warming up in "Sign Language T-shirts"
The ceremonial first serve was conducted with four gold medalists from the Deaflympics as special guests, energizing the venue.
Children from schools for the deaf in Osaka Prefecture were also invited, and the arena was filled with a warm atmosphere where sign language was used throughout the day.
Ceremonial first serve performed by Ayaka Umemoto
Deaflympics gold medalists Minami Ishihara, Sayaka Umemoto, and Nami Inumaru (from left) wearing their gold medals
Sign language interpretation taking place inside the venue
Osaka Bluteon players applauding in sign language
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