The Japan Football Association has appointed Takakura Asako as the new head coach of Japan Women’s National U-18 team, which eye for the 2016 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

Profile of TAKAKURA Asako

Born on 19 April, 1968 in Fukushima, Japan, as a player she played for FC Jinnan, Yomiuri Soccer Club Beleza, Silicon Volley Red Devils (USA), etc. As a Japan women’s international, she capped 79 matches and scored 30 goals (including ones at 1991/1995 World Cups, 1996 Olympics). In her coaching career, she was awarded two consecutive AFC Coach of the Year (Women’s) since 2012. She possesses Class S coaching licence.

Notable Coaching Career

2007-2008  JFA National Training Centre Coach [Women’s] Nationwide
2008  Japan Women’s U-13 Selection Head Coach
2008  Nadeshiko Challenge Project Head Coach / Coach
2009  JFA National Training Centre Coach [Women’s] Kanto
2009  JFA Elite Program [Women’s] Head Coach
2009  Japan Women’s U-14 Selection Head Coach
2009  Nadeshiko Challenge Project Coach
2009-2012  Japan Women’s National U-16/U-17 Team Coach
2013-2014  Japan Women’s National U-16/U-17 Team Head Coach

Comment from Head Coach Takakura Asako

Japan Women’s National U-20 Team is the last generation that can experience the world stage. They are supposed to make a transition from so-called youth generation to the level where they should create her own identity as a football player. I would like to encourage them to get close to Nadeshiko Japan in terms of their spirit, technique, physical ability and mental approach. I will create a competitive team where all the players always get involved, understand the pace of a match and make right decisions.
To make it happen, I’m willing to support them to become a player who always thinks about what is expected and what to do on and off the pitch, and who can best perform when things are not going well.

Schedule of Japan Women’s U-18 National Team

- Domestic training camp (28 September - 1 October, 2014)
- AFC U-19 Women’s Championship 2015 (19 - 30 August, 2015)
* International trip and domestic camp are scheduled in the first half of 2015.

* Other coaching staff will be announced once determined.