Last month, Waseda’s football team won regional championships for the first time in five years and are now in line for the collegiate champions title. I chatted with star members, Itsuki Kato and Atsushi Hojo, for more on their win and football careers.
Amy Yonemoto: First off, congratulations on winning 1st place in the Kanto league! How was that?!
Itsuki Kato: Which game?
Amy: The game against Hosei University, right?
Atsushi Hojo: Our title was set after we won the game against Hosei, so yes, Hosei.
Itsuki: Right! Surreal. It was like.. am I actually going to the play-offs?
Atsushi: I was ecstatic. Even after winning, the feeling that we won didn’t quite hit me. But as the days pass, the feeling is becoming more real.
(Itsuki Kato- Linebacker #7)
Amy: When did you start playing football?
Itsuki: From high school.
Atsushi: Middle school! I was also playing flag and touch football.
Amy: I know that you’re both star players who play large roles in the team’s success. What are some of your accomplishments throughout your football career?
Itsuki: Spring season of my sophomore year I was selected to play in Universiade.
Atsushi: I haven’t been selected for anything..
Amy: You’ve been a starting member since your freshman year!!
(Atsushi Hojo- Running Back #6)
Amy: I know about the USC (University of Southern California) football exchange program, and I heard that the two of you were selected to go to USC to check out and participate in their practices. What was like that for you? What surprised you most?
Atsushi: I was most surprised about how large the team was. The stadium and where they practice too. Their weight room was huge too. Something that we definitely don’t have in Japan. Also the level of the player’s skill and of course the size of their body!
Itsuki: I agree with Atsushi. Japan can’t compare to the level they play at. I was really in awe at how their football environment was structured. I feel as though I left the program more serious about football.
Amy: Were you able to speak to any of the players during your (USC) exchange?
Atsushi: Yes!! I was able to take a photo too!
Amy: Hahah. You look really happy!
Amy: How would you two summarize your season?
Atsushi: I was injured during the fall season, so I wasn’t able to play well or at my best. I’m working hard to get back at the moment.
Itsuki: I also didn’t have the best season, but I’m very confident about my speed and I’m working hard so that I keep it up.
Amy: I grew up watching the San Francisco 49ers. What teams or players are you two a fan of?
Itsuki: USC! And the Ravens.
Atsushi: San Diego Chargers and I’m a huge fan of Ladainian Tomlinson. Within the NFL he’s smaller for his position, but he’s a cut back god. And I heard that he’s just a really good person.
Itsuki: You definitely need a check up on your personality (laughs)
Atsushi: Shut up haha
Amy: In Japan there is no professional league or NFL, but there is a league for business men. Do you two plan on continuing football after college?
Atsushi: I haven’t decided! But I don’t think my parents would be very happy haha
Itsuki: I haven’t decided either!
Amy: Outside of football, how do you like spending your time?
Atsushi: Going to the onsens!
Itsuki: Reading.
Atsushi: I think by reading he means watching movies..
Amy: Guys, I’m going to have to wrap it up! Do you have any advice or anything you would share with those who are interested in joining the football team?
Atsushi: I think that we have a really diverse team, and for those who are interested let’s work together as Waseda students! Is that ok? Hahah
Itsuki: Same.
Atsushi: What. Don’t say the same thing as me!
Amy: And any last words for the students of Waseda?
Atsushi: I’m really thankful that I get to fulfil one of my dreams, and grateful for the support we get from our peers!
Itsuki: Me too! I really appreciate the support.
Good luck at the championships!
Waseda University football fans! You can stay up to date with the football team by following their official Facebook page here!