Victory-infused sentiments from Haruna Sakamoto: "Every ball, every game, the sum of it all – the delight in triumph." [Chronicles of Athletes]
Haruna Sakamoto: A Veteran Softball Player Sharing Her Wisdom
Haruna Sakamoto, a 31-year-old infielder for the Japanese national women's softball team, has made a significant impact both on and off the field. Known for her vitality and positive outlook, she has been a key player for eight consecutive years, serving as captain in 2016.
Sakamoto's journey began in the fourth year of elementary school when she joined a boys youth baseball team. Her love for sports led her to pursue softball, and she was scouted by Toda Chuo General Hospital in Saitama Prefecture, where she played for three years. Although the team was unable to secure victories, it was a stepping stone for Sakamoto's career.
In 2008, Sakamoto transferred to Toyota, seeking a stronger team to help her reach her goal of making the national team. This move proved fruitful, as she was selected for the national team the following year. Since then, she has been a consistent member, with her experience proving essential in winning the finals.
Nakanishi, the general manager of the team, wants Sakamoto to share her experience with younger team members and cultivate them. Coach Asako Mabuchi describes Sakamoto as a role model, a bar that the younger players must clear.
Sakamoto's career has been marked by dedication and hard work. She has honed her skills under the guidance of top-ranked players like Natasha Watley, who joined Toyota in 2009. Sakamoto met Watley and learned from her, practicing together and improving her batting skills.
Sakamoto's consciousness of being a professional sprouted early, and she focused on preparation for games, including studying video footage of opponents. During the off-seasons, she ventured to the professional league in the United States for training in 2013 and 2015.
Despite her competitive nature, Sakamoto is more shy than she appears and loves company. She is also mischievous, always looking for ways to improve and grow. Sakamoto hates to lose, but she considers the younger players, wanting them to approach her more aggressively.
Sakamoto's philosophy is that losing or failures are not setbacks but are a form of energy for moving on to the next stage. This mindset has served her well in her career, and she continues to inspire her teammates with her resilience and determination.
Sakamoto relinquished her post as captain to No. 10 Haruna Furusawa this year, but her influence remains strong. She represents a good goal, a bar that the younger players must clear, and her legacy will continue to motivate them for years to come.
