In the dynamic world of Japanese football, FC Imabari is steadily making a name for itself, not only through its ambitions on the field but also through its broader impact on community and youth development. At the heart of this growth lies the vision of Mr. Takeshi Okada, a highly respected figure in Japanese football, whose philosophy and leadership have become the foundation of the club’s strategy and daily operations.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Mr. Ikari for opening the doors of FC Imabari to us and sharing his insights into the club’s vision, development strategies, and the transformative role of the Okada Method in shaping its future.
A Vision for 2030
FC Imabari’s long-term vision is structured around four key pillars: People and Organization, Football, Satoyama and Community, and Business. The club’s football ambitions are nothing short of impressive. By 2030, FC Imabari aims to establish the highest quality football pyramid in Japan, known as the ‘Imabari Model,’ driven by the consistent application of the Okada Method. The top team aspires to compete for the J1 title consistently and ultimately win the AFC Champions League (ACL). The club also focuses on nurturing talent, with a goal of producing players for Japan’s national teams at all age levels every year.
The Okada Method: A Blueprint for Success
Mr. Okada, as the Representative Director and Chairman, plays a pivotal role in shaping FC Imabari’s approach. His corporate philosophy emphasizes the richness of the mind over material abundance, guiding the club’s business and community initiatives. The Okada Method itself is a systemized approach to coaching that instills a ‘play model’—the fundamental principles of soccer players need by age 16 to become professionals. This method promotes independence and autonomy in players, ensuring they not only perform well but also think critically about their game.
The club’s youth development strategy embodies this method by prioritizing reflection and self-analysis among young players. Training sessions involve collaborative analysis of matches, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The ‘Growth Program’ complements this by encouraging individual development through outdoor activities and life skills training.
Path to the J1 League
FC Imabari faces significant challenges on its path to the J1 League. Key hurdles include expanding business operations and increasing the first team’s player budget three to four times its current level. Given Imabari’s status as a regional city, rapid business scaling is not an easy task. The club is focusing on crystallizing its football philosophy and enhancing its scouting network to build a cohesive and effective squad. Additionally, it is diversifying its business ventures, particularly through outdoor education and community engagement programs.
Beyond Football: The FC Imabari Community Initiative
FC Imabari’s ambitions go beyond football success. The club is actively working on the ‘FC Imabari Community’ initiative, aimed at building a ‘mutual support community’ that addresses social issues such as global warming, food scarcity, poverty, loneliness, and disaster resilience. Central to this initiative is the ‘Asics Satoyama Stadium,’ a hub for fostering connections through events, health and education programs, and art initiatives.
Youth Development: The Imabari Model Project
The club’s approach to youth development is encapsulated in the ‘Imabari Model Project,’ which involves consistent, long-term guidance across the city and surrounding areas. Despite Imabari’s modest population of 160,000, the club collaborates with local coaches and teams to build Japan’s highest quality youth development system. The focus is on not only nurturing talent within the club but also contributing to broader societal development through football.
Measuring Success
The Okada Method’s success is evident in FC Imabari’s achievements. The U-18 team, established in 2019, has already produced a player for the top team and performed well in international competitions. The club’s collaboration with Zhejiang FC in China showcases the international influence of the Okada Method, contributing to Zhejiang’s status as a leading youth development club in China.
Scouting and Recruitment Strategy
Balancing young talent with experienced players, including international signings, is a key part of FC Imabari’s strategy. The club maintains a keen eye on young talent that aligns with its style, while also bringing in seasoned players to strengthen critical positions.
Conclusion
FC Imabari is more than a football club; it is a catalyst for change, both on and off the pitch. By combining a clear vision, a unique coaching philosophy, and strong community initiatives, FC Imabari is poised to influence the the landscape of Japanese football. Under the guidance of Mr. Okada and through the Okada Method, the club is steadily building a legacy rooted in talent development, community engagement, and sustainable growth.