By Yuta Matsumura and Daia Koyano
In the Under-25 category, which showcases the next generation of curling talent, one of Japan’s most promising young teams is Team Maeda.
Based in Tokoro, Kitami City, Hokkaido, the team consists of three classmates — Takumi Maeda, Uryu Kamikawa, and Gakuto Tokoro — joined by Takumi’s younger brother, Hiroki Maeda. They have been competing actively on the tour circuit and currently rank 31st in the World Curling Team Ranking (as of Oct. 15), placing them third among Japanese men’s teams behind Team Abe and Team Yamaguchi.
Their consistency has been impressive: third place in the 2023–24 Japan Curling Championships (JCC) and runners-up in the 2024–25 season. They have firmly established themselves among Japan’s top contenders. Their breakthrough came during the 2020–21 JCC, when, as high school students, they finished first in the preliminary round and reached the final. Though they narrowly missed the title, their fearless play left a strong impression.
After moving up from the junior level, Team Maeda joined the same management organization as the renowned Team Fujisawa, becoming their “younger brothers” within the same structure. It’s rare, even globally, for both men’s and women’s teams to operate under one organization. In Japan, where young men’s teams often face challenges in securing support, this stable environment has given Team Maeda a valuable foundation to pursue their world ambitions.
NEW FACES AND NEW ENERGY
One of the biggest stories this summer was the arrival of Tokoro as lead. He joined the team at domestic events in July, replacing a teammate who left earlier in the season, after a long absence from curling. Tokoro had previously competed in speed skating and had not played curling since middle school, so his return to the ice came as a surprise to many.
Getting back into curling after years away was not an easy decision, but Tokoro’s natural athleticism and focus have helped him adjust quickly. His comeback has brought fresh energy and balance to the team.
Team Maeda’s style of play is known for being aggressive and entertaining. Takumi Maeda admires Canadian curler Kevin Koe, and his influence shows in the team’s fearless approach. Whenever they see an opportunity, they go for big shots without hesitation. Their curling is creative, energetic, and full of youthful confidence — the kind of play that draws in fans and keeps them watching.
THE U25 CHALLENGE: A CRUCIAL STEP FORWARD
For Team Maeda, competing in the CO-OP Tour Challenge's Jr. GSOC U25 is a major opportunity. It’s a rare chance to go head-to-head with strong international teams of their generation and a valuable test of their progress. The experience they gain here will serve as a stepping stone toward greater achievements in the seasons ahead.
As they set their sights on earning an invitation to a Grand Slam event, Team Maeda aim to use their aggressiveness and team chemistry as weapons. The U25 stage is not their destination — it’s the next step in their ongoing climb toward the top.
TEAM DATA
| Position | Name | Date of Birth |
| Skip | Takumi Maeda | April 2, 2002 |
| Third | Hiroki Maeda | May 9, 2003 |
| Second | Uryu Kamikawa | Oct. 24, 2002 |
| Lead | Gakuto Tokoro | April 25, 2002 |
2025-26 SEASON RESULTS
Wakkanai Midori Challenge Cup — First
ARGO GRAPHICS Cup — First
Hokkaido Bank Curling Classic — Third
ADVICS Cup — Fifth
AMJ Masters Tier 2 — Missed Playoffs
Hogged Rock KW Fall Classic — Missed Playoffs
Stu Sells Toronto Tankard — Missed Playoffs
