Research
Interdisciplinary Research Areas
The complexity of our society and humanity makes it difficult for a single academic discipline to explore a project like gender in sports, especially focusing on baseball. Therefore, the interdisciplinary method is used to deconstruct it. Below are the three pillars of the research area. Ohio University IIP (Independent Interdisciplinary Program)
History of Modern Sports
We look back through the recent history of baseball and other modern sports to examine how society has approached women and baseball.
Japanese Culture & Baseball
We use cultural anthropology methods to investigate Japanese cultural phenomena surrounding baseball and the deeper meaning of the recent popularity of women's baseball in Japan.
Women's Studies in Sports
Gender discrimination and inequality have been recorded since ancient times. How has our society treated women in sports? Why do more women play softball than baseball in the United States? The Studies could shine a light on female athletes who overcome difficulties.
Leading the way
Research and Action
Alongside our research on women and baseball, we hypothesize that the best way to lead social change is through action. Let's face it, we have very few baseball teams for girls and women in America. Therefore, Akisa Fukuzawa started the Cherry Bombs, a women's baseball club team at Ohio University in 2022. Through this project, we demonstrate the accessible opportunities, practical skill development, and the importance of open thinking to not only transform the potential of female athletes, but also create precedents for the youth of our society. Check out what the Ohio University Women's Baseball Team (Cherry Bombs) is doing and follow them on social media. (ohio_univ_womens_baseball on IG)
Our Team
Meet the Cherry Bombs
Cherry Bombs is a women's hardball baseball club team at Ohio University (OUWBC), named after the cherry trees given by the Chubu University as a symbol of OU's global partnership since 1973.
The team was founded in 2022 by Akisa Fukuzawa , MBA/ Master of Sports Administration , PhD student, a faculty instructor at OU.
It is important for women to be able to experience the joy of playing baseball. Love and passion for the game should be appreciated and accessible by all. Our goal is to foster that dream to come true.
In addition to the playing members, we have administrative members who are helping the team. Students can request practicum/internship opportunities for credits. (see open positions)
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Our Partners
Please contact fukuzawa@ohio.edu for the best way to support us!