On March 11, at the Shinagawa Intercity Hall (Minato Ward, Tokyo), the "UNIVAS AWARDS 2023-24 Ceremony" took place, with five members from Okayama University's Weight Training Club receiving awards in four categories.

These awards recognize not only athletic achievements but also outstanding academic performance, commitment to safety and security, and contributions to the promotion of university sports, embodying the ideals of the Japan Association for University Athletics and Sport (UNIVAS). This year, a total of 123 individuals and 31 groups were honored across 13 categories.

The Weight Training Club was honored for their outstanding performance, having achieved overall victory in the 50th All Japan Powerlifting Championships, thus marking the first time that Okayama University has produced recipients of the "UNIVAS AWARDS".

KOGA Kenshin (4th year, Faculty of Law), who received the Outstanding Award in the "Supporting Staff of the Year" category for his efforts in enhancing student competitions, expressed his joy at receiving such a prestigious award, saying, "I am truly grateful to the coaching staff, the Student Support Division, and the club members for their support."

TSUBOUCHI Reo (3rd year, School of Economics), who placed in the "Man of the Year" category for embodying the spirit of balanced pursuit in academics and sports, stated, "I feel deeply honored to receive this prestigious award. I owe this achievement to the support of my fellow club members and coaches. I hope this award will inspire others to take an interest in powerlifting as a sport."
Ingyin Phoo (4th year, Discovery Program for Global Learners), who also placed in the "Woman of the Year" category, remarked, "Although I did not reach the Outstanding Award, I am delighted to participate in such an awards ceremony. I had the opportunity to interact with athletes from other universities during the reception, which was very inspiring."

KAWAKAMI　Shunya (1st year, School of Economics), recognized in the "Rookie of the Year" category for exemplary activities as a new member of the sports club, expressed his happiness, saying, "I am very pleased to receive this award with the support of many people. I will continue to strive to meet expectations in the future."

SUGINO　Hiroki (1st year, School of Education), also honored in the same category, said, "I am happy to receive this recognition. I will continue to work hard in both training and academics to maintain this level of achievement."

UNIVAS AWARDS Individual Recipients:
Supporting Staff of the Year, Outstanding Award: KOGA Kenshin (4th year, Faculty of Law)
Man of the Year, Placed: TSUBOUCHI Reo (3rd year, School of Economics)
Woman of the Year, Placed: Ingyin Phoo (4th year, Discovery Program for Global Learners)
Rookie of the Year, Placed: KAWAKAMI　Shunya (1st year, School of Economics), SUGINO　Hiroki (1st year, School of Education)
※Affiliation and academic year are as of the time of receiving the award.

UNIVAS AWARDS