On Thursday 25 March, the torch relay for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games started from J-Village in Fukushima, and former members of the Nadeshiko Japan (Japan Women's National Team) who won the FIFA Women's World Cup 2011™ served as the first runner.

15 members from the 2011 team gathered to serve as the “Grand-start” torch relay runners, which included former coach SASAKI Norio, SAMESHIMA Aya, and TAKASE Megumi, who are currently attending Nadeshiko Japan’s training camp in Kagoshima. Players currently belonging to clubs overseas, NAGASATO Yuki, KAWASUMI Nahomi, TANAKA Asuna, KUMAGAI Saki, and IWABUCHI Mana, were not able to attend due to travel restrictions, while SAWA Homare cancelled her participation due to a poor physical condition.

The players were gathered for the first time in nearly 10 years, but they still showcased their signature teamwork and smiles to bring excitement to the opening ceremony. IWASHIMIZU Azusa, who has been actively involved in reconstruction support activities of the Great East Japan Earthquake, held the torch, while MIYAMA Aya and ONO Shinobu led the way for the team. The other members lined in a formation to protect the torch, with former coach Sasaki trailing the pack as he mentioned, “The spotlight should be on the players.” The members started from the all-weather training facility of J-Village, ran about 200 meters, and safely handed over the torch to the second runner.

Reflecting on the facility he and his team used for countless training camps ahead of both the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Beijing Olympics, former coach Sasaki mentioned, “I think it is proof of the reconstruction of Fukushima, and a sacred place for Nadeshiko.” MARUYAMA Karina, who played for TEPCO Mareeze and lived in Fukushima for five years, shared her emotions, “I consider Fukushima as my home away from home, and this prefecture created half of who I am today. I ran to express my gratitude to various people, and the soles of my feet got hot with the wonderful grass and asphalt.”

Reflecting on the torch relay, Miyama Aya commented, “I had a mixed feeling because of the current status of our society, where many things are restricted and there are many things to be careful of. However, I am grateful that I was able to share the experience of unifying the desires of many people to make the Olympics successful with this member.” The torch relay will travel around the country until it reaches the National Stadium.

The torch that was carried by the Nadeshiko Japan will be exhibited at the Japan Football Museum in the future.

Comments

SASAKI Norio, Former Coach of Nadeshiko Japan
We all ran with the thoughts of the members who couldn’t make it today. I think J-Village is a proof of the reconstruction of Fukushima, and a sacred place for Nadeshiko. I hope this torch will be delivered to the National Stadium safely. At the FIFA Women's World Cup 2011™, the players managed to win the title by firmly accepting their feelings towards Japan and the affected areas. I strongly believe that sports can give you power during difficult situations. I think there are lots of excitement that can be conveyed through video footages. Although we are facing difficult times with the ongoing pandemic, through discipline, safety, and security of Japan, I hope we can make the Olympics successful.

SAMESHIMA Aya (Omiya Ardija VENTUS)
I spent five years in Fukushima, while I also spending lots of time here with the Nadeshiko Japan. I have so many memories here. We are honoured to be given the opportunity to be the first torchbearer, which is a symbol of hope. In the absence of bright news, I hope this can spread as a positive news.