Naoki Hagiwara

Naoki Hagiwara (Inagi City Hometown Athlete)

Certification Date

May 31, 2024 (Friday)

Department

Goalball Player

Profile

Born on October 28, 1996. Graduated from Nagamine Elementary School and Inagi Dai 5 Junior High School.

Career

• Designated Strengthening Athletes of the Japan Goalball Association
• April 2024 - Japan National Team for Goalball at the Paris 2024 Paralympics
• October 2024 - Received the Tokyo Metropolitan Honor Award and the Tokyo Citizens' Sports Award
• December 2024 - Received the Inagi City Citizen Honor Award

Main Achievements

• 2023 MONEY DOCTOR Parasports Special 30th Japan Goalball Championship Men's Qualifying Tournament 2nd Place
• 2024 VANDA Goalball Nations Cup 2024 2nd Place
• 2024 Paris 2024 Paralympics 1st Place
• 2025 Pajulahti Games 1st Place
• 2025 VANDA Goalball Nations Cup 2025 2nd Place

Interview (May, 2024)

What are your memories of Inagi City?

I often went to the Inagi City Festival with family and friends, as well as to Yomiuri Land. When I was in elementary school, I also became the runner-up in the Super Dodgeball Tournament held at the Comprehensive Gymnasium.

What does it feel like to be recognized as a hometown athlete?

I feel a sense of tightening. I received encouragement and a certificate from the mayor, and I realized that I am supported by many people.

What has been difficult about continuing goalball?

I dislocated my shoulder and was worried about whether to have surgery. Looking back now, I think it was a good decision to have the surgery, and I feel that the results have led to good performance. When I first started playing goalball, it was physically tough, and there were times I didn't want to continue, but I learned that there is enjoyment beyond the hardships, and since then, I have never thought it was difficult.

Please tell us your future goals

In preparation for the Paris 2024 Paralympics, we are working hard in practice with the team members to aim for the gold medal. We will do our best to win the gold medal.