The awardees of the “Distinguished persons in the contribution to sports award” was announced, as the coaches and players of the Universiade Japan Men's National Team, who won the title at the 30th Summer Universiade Napoli 2019, and FIFA referee Ms. YAMASHITA Yoshimi, who was appointed as the referee at the FIFA Women's World Cup France 2019, were recognised from the football community.

The “Distinguished persons in the contribution to sports award” is an award given to players, coaches, supporting bodies, and referees, who have thrived at international competitions held in the previous year. Their success and contribution are recognised and awarded by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.

This year’s commendation ceremony was not held, due to the effect of COVID-19, and the awardees were announced on the official website of the Japan Sports Agency.

Official website of the Japan Sports Agency (Japanese website)
https://www.mext.go.jp/sports/b_menu/houdou/jsa_00054.html

Comments from the Awardees

MATSUMOTO Naoya, Coach (Momoyama Gakuin University)
I am honoured to be awarded with such glorious award. This is an award won by all the people who has supported collegiate football on a daily basis. I am thankful to all the players and staffs who were involved at the Universiade competition. I am also inspired by the fact that many of the players involved in that tournament are now playing at the J.League, and I hope to see them thrive at the Tokyo Olympics as well. Although my contribution may be little, I will continue to give my utmost efforts for the continuing growth of the Japanese football community.

YAMASHITA Yoshimi, FIFA referee
I am extremely honoured to be given this award, and my sincere gratitude goes to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Japan Sports Agency, and everyone involved in creating this award. I am also thankful towards all the people who supports our daily activities as referees. This award gave me the opportunity to rethink about the role and responsibilities of a referee. I will continue to work as a female referee, while embracing the pride and responsibility that comes with this award. Currently, team sports are facing a tough situation, where we cannot cheer out loud and embrace our teammates in celebration. However, I strongly believe that football is still capable of amusing and moving the hearts of the viewers. As a referee, I will continue to give my utmost efforts and contribution towards football, while believing in the power of sports.