Higher-ranking members of sports associations are immersed in a village-like, top-down culture, and have failed to respond to the changing times.

Noriko Mizoguchi, professor of sport sociology at Japan Women's College of Physical Education and a judo silver medalist at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. A series of scandals rocking the sports community has prompted the government to consider tightening controls over sports associations.

© Mainichi Shimbun