Office for Sports Promotion

Judo is one of the sports expected to win medals at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.We interviewed Yoshimasa Fujino and Masao Watanabe, who are training coaches and trainers for visually impaired judo.

"We win because of the efforts of our players, and we lose because of our staff's incompetence."

``Do not use the words ``that'' and ``that.'' ”

~What did you think when you were approached to become a coach and trainer for visually impaired judo? ～

Watanabe　I received a request from my classmate from university, Director Sato of the Japan Visually Impaired Judo Federation, a non-profit organization, as he was looking for someone who could work as both a judo coach and trainer.I was a little apprehensive as I had never worked with a visually impaired person before, but I decided to take on the job.

Fujino　At a time when the Tokyo 2020 Games might be decided, I was also approached by Director Sato.We have been friends since university, so I accepted after two replies.Mr. Watanabe and Director Sato were classmates at university (lol).

~What kind of work and role do you currently have? ～

～Have you noticed anything since you started supporting people with visual impairments? ～

Watanabe　In conversation, I try not to use the words "over there" or "over there," but rather to let them know in specific terms.However, I end up using things like "The entrance is over there" (lol).Not only do you have to tell them that there are steps, but you also have to tell them whether they are going up or down.Even if I say forward roll in practice, it doesn't convey the sense of distance, so I clap my hands to let them know where they are.I learned what it feels like to provide support for people with visual impairments after working with the staff.

``Because we're friends, we can share our problems without having to deal with them alone. ”

～How do you both balance your day jobs and your activities as staff members? ~

Watanabe　As a sole proprietor, I have to close my clinic when I have training camps or field trips, and I think it would be difficult to lose my income during that time.The staff members are almost like volunteers, so it's difficult to balance that financially.However, being involved in judo and teaching it is a learning experience, and athletes sometimes come to me as patients.

Fujino　It's equally difficult to balance both.The training camp is held once a month, but it would be helpful if it could be tied into a holiday or coincide with a day when the clinic is closed.Other than that, I join the team after I finish my work so that it doesn't affect my main job (lol).

～Have you benefited from your regular job by becoming a staff member? ~

~How do you view each other as coaches and trainers? ~

Fujino　I'm a friend.Sharing problems with your friends can help you solve them faster than dealing with them alone.I feel really lucky to have friends.

Watanabe　We went to the same university and know each other from the times when we both went through hardships, so sometimes we can tell by looking at each other without having to say anything.In that sense, it's easy to do.They sometimes notice things that I don't notice, and vice versa.

Fujino　It's Aun's breath (lol).The other staff members are also the same, so the sense of camaraderie works well.

～Is there anything you keep in mind as a coach and trainer? ～

Fujino　These players are visually impaired, so I think we have to act as their eyes.The sport of judo involves throwing and being thrown, so I try to use my body as a shield so that I don't get hurt by colliding with the players around me.

Watanabe　We always think player-led.For example, when we receive a document from the federation, we check whether it is in Braille, plain print, data, and whether the athlete can read it.If the destination is a training camp or other expedition, I will explain how the building and rooms are set up, and if it is a buffet-style meal, I will explain what is available and serve it to you.You may be more concerned about things other than judo.

～How do you refresh yourself when you are tired from work or supporting competitions? ~

``Judo for the visually impaired is a sport that can be played equally by able-bodied people. ”

～How does it feel to be certified as a “Tokyo Parasports Staff”?Please let us know your enthusiasm for the future. ~

Fujino　Currently, I am coaching athletes related to Tokyo, but I would like to actively support other para-athletes as well.

Watanabe　I displayed my certificate at the orthopedic clinic.Now that we have been certified, the number of patients who have contacted us has increased, which is very encouraging.As the Tokyo 2020 Games are approaching, it has become easier to understand the reason for the closure.

～What kind of existence do you think “staff” is? ~

Watanabe　This is a completely behind-the-scenes job, so I don't really get to be in front of the players.Winning is due to the efforts of the players, and losing is due to the lack of ability of our staff.When I lose a match, I honestly apologize to the players.

Fujino　We put athletes first, and as staff we always try to do things for the athletes.

~ Please give a message to people who want to try judo. ～

Watanabe　I don't want to feel inferior just because I have a disability, and I encourage you to take on the challenge.When it comes to judo for the visually impaired, everyone has a different degree of vision, but I think the difference lies in their individuality.Their "individuality" makes each judo their own style, so it's fun to play against each other.Even though judo is the same, it looks and feels different.In any sport, if you consider disability as a ``personality'' and try it out first, I think you will find a sport that suits you.

~Please share your expectations and support for the athletes aiming to compete in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. ~

Japan Visually Impaired Judo Federation Home Page

Yoshimasa Fujino and Masao Watanabe were my classmates when I was a student.It was impressive to see how they respected each other's attitudes and complemented each other because they were on the same path and understood each other.This bond between friends and the solidarity between staff members may be a major source of support for the players.