With hopes of realising a society where women can shine, JFA has established 8 March as "JFA Women's Football Day." Here we have conducted an interview with KAWASUMI Nahomi (Sky Blue FC), who experienced being the world champions as a member of the Nadeshiko Japan (Japan Women's National Team), and currently plays in the USA.

*This interview was conducted on 29 February.

――Rinkan SC Lemons, Yamato Sylphid, Kanagawa Yaeinishi High School, Nippon Sport Science University. Throughout your career you have always played for a “Women’s team.”

Kawasumi　I think it’s a pretty rare case. Most of the players in the top leagues have played with the boys during their time in primary school.

――You had difficulties finding a team when you entered junior high school.

Kawasumi　There were a few teams within the prefecture, but not in my hometown. However, when I entered junior high school, the coaches and parents of Rinkan SC Lemons got together to found Yamato Sylphid. I probably would have continued regardless, because I really enjoyed playing football. But, because they founded the team in my local area, I was able to continue playing without the long commute.

――I am pretty sure there are many kids facing similar circumstances.

Kawasumi　Girls grow faster during primary school, so it doesn’t bother you much playing with the boys, but that all changes during junior high school. In that sense, finding a proper team in junior high school is essential. Playing for the school team is one option, but if there are more club teams, girls can have more options to choose from.

――Did you experience any hardships playing football because of your gender?

Kawasumi　I personally didn’t have any. I was just focused on doing what I can under the given environment, so I never really felt like I was going through much. In fact, I was always feeling grateful for having my teammates, coaches, and a place to play football. I think many of the players of the Nadeshiko League and the Nadeshiko Japan don’t really consider that as hardship. We simply play football for the love of the game and that passion gave enough motivation to continue playing. However, I do hear stories from many young fans and their parents about their worries, “There are no teams to play in junior high school” and “Should I continue playing for a boys’ team?” In some cases, the players’ passion is not enough to solve these issues.

――JFA has established 8 March as "JFA Women's Football Day." What are your thoughts on it?

Kawasumi　We are seeing more and more women getting featured at the world scene, but Japan has been very slow on adapting gender equality. In that sense, I am very glad to see JFA taking the initiative to pick up and feature the subject of women’s empowerment, but it also reminds me that we are still living in a society where we have to highlight the fact that we are women.

――What do we need to promote and develop women’s football?

Kawasumi　In Japan, women’s football has always been driven and motivated by the results earned by the national team. That is an aspect the players of the national team and the Nadeshiko League must realise. JFA President TASHIMA Kohzo has expressed his aspiration to “Further develop women’s football,” so the players must first acknowledge and accept their roles.

――What are your future plans to get involved in women’s football in Japan?

Kawasumi　For now, I really want to convey the joy of football as an active player. I am always happy to hear people saying, “I started playing football because of you,” “I am still working hard,” “My dream is to become a member of the Nadeshiko Japan,” and those words give me great motivation. I feel that synergy between myself and the supporters, so as a professional footballer, it is my duty to give my utmost efforts to support women’s football in Japan.

▼For more information on the projects and events, please visit the "JFA Women's Football Day" website.