Hokkaido Athletics Association’s Unpaid Dues and Embezzlement Scandal

FRIDAY Digital’s investigation revealed that the employees of the Hokkaido Track and Field Association were dismissed by the end of December last year, following their report on the unpaid fee issue. While Masanari Watanabe, the executive director of the Hokkaido TFA, stated that “the dismissal of the administrative staff is not necessarily related to the unpaid registration fees” and it was not disciplinary dismissal, according to another source, the said employee has admitted their fault and expressed intention to repay, but the repayment has not been made yet. Facing significant losses and pushed to the brink of survival, the Hokkaido TFA might not hesitate to accuse and sue the said employee, as the situation warrants, but there are also opinions inclined towards settling the matter out of court.

In such a critical situation, the leaders in the field of Hokkaido, who are passionate about nurturing young athletes, do not conceal their frustration, stating, “The executives have lost their sense of responsibility.” They continue, 

“They are still delaying problem-solving, thinking that ‘it will somehow work out.’ There is absolutely no prospect of paying the unpaid registration fees, and they even go as far as saying ‘do not disclose’ when it comes to the possibility of dissolution.

It’s outrageous to settle without accusing the staff suspected of misappropriation privately. How will they explain to middle and high school students and their parents who are striving hard with dreams of participating in the Olympics or World Championships? We should deal with it decisively and promptly, with a sense of urgency, and disclose all information. If we don’t disclose, it’s a cover-up.” 

Criticizes sports writer Toshiki Tsuda, who is pursuing the investigation into the unpaid registration fees and inappropriate accounting practices of the Hokkaido TFA.

“The date on the obtained board report document reads ‘Year 5 of Reiwa,’ but officially it should be ‘Year 6 of Reiwa.’ Furthermore, in a different document than the one mentioned above, even though the disciplinary action against the administrative staff is disciplinary dismissal, it is written as disciplinary dismissal, which is used for public servants. Even in just one document, it’s sloppy, and the Hokkaido TFA lacks organizational integrity.

Some athletics stakeholders in Hokkaido have consulted the police about criminal charges against the administrative staff. If it’s true that executives of the Hokkaido TFA are proposing a settlement, they have no choice but to admit that it’s self-protection to avoid getting burned. Although the Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF) says they will provide ‘maximum advice,’ we want them to take more proactive steps.”

While the JAAF has received a report of Chairman Maru’s resignation from the Hokkaido TFA, they claim they are not aware of the dismissal of administrative staff. Chairman Osagai of the JAAF reveals their stance on these developments.

“In order to ensure that the registered members of the athletics federation in Hokkaido (athletes and officials) can continue to engage in athletics with peace of mind, we will continue to demand prompt and appropriate responses from the Hokkaido TFA. Additionally, our association will strive to understand the situation and provide necessary support and cooperation.”

Among the registered members of the athletics federation in Hokkaido mentioned by Chairman Osagai is Masataro Jōyama, the Japanese record holder in the long jump, who is preparing for the Japanese Championships in June, which serve as the Olympic selection trials. Will he be able to calmly compete in the event? What necessary responses will the JAAF take? This situation is no longer just a concern for athletics stakeholders but is being watched by everyone.