Balancing Work and Sports: A Parathlete’s Journey at ASICS
We had the opportunity to interview a remarkable ASICS employee who is not only contributing to our HR department but also excelling in discus throwing as a para-athlete. With the support of ASICS’s Athlete Authorization system he has successfully balanced his professional career with his athletic pursuits. We discussed how he manages both, the importance of a supportive work environment for all employees regardless of disability, and his experiences as a para-athlete.
Can you tell us about your department and your role?
I am currently part of the Organization and Talent Management Team in the HR department, where I focus primarily on the development of fresh employees. Since I just joined ASICS as a new graduate, I’m working hard to learn my responsibilities. My goal is to not only succeed in my athletic career but also to develop quickly in my professional role and make meaningful contributions in both areas.
- How did you become a para-athlete, and what are some of your notable achievements?
I started throwing events like discus and shot put in my first year of junior high as a member of the athletics club. Despite having congenital cerebral palsy that affects my left side, I initially competed alongside able-bodied athletes. In high school, I began participating in para-athletic events as well. In my second year of high school, I won gold medals in shot put and discus at the World Para Athletics Junior Championships. I later attended Nippon Sport Science University, where I continued my athletic pursuits. In 2023, my first year as an ASICS employee, I placed 4th in discus at the World Para Athletics Championships and won a silver medal at the Asian Para Games. I am now training hard in preparation for the upcoming Paris Paralympics.
What led you to join ASICS?
During my time at university, I considered different career paths, including studying for public service exams and applying for regular corporate roles. However, when I learned about ASICS’s the Athlete Authorization system —designed for employees who want to pursue both their professional careers and athletic endeavors—I was immediately drawn to it. I had been leaning toward a traditional career, but the opportunity to continue my athletic journey while leveraging my past achievements was too good to pass up.
Can you explain the Athlete Authorization system at ASICS?
The Athlete Authorization system allows employees to integrate their training and competition schedules with their work responsibilities. To be eligible for this program, athletes must meet specific criteria, such as being recognized as an elite athlete by a relevant sports federation or holding a world or national record. The program provides the flexibility to balance work and athletic commitments, covering related costs and offering support for using ASICS products in competitions. It’s a unique program that reflects ASICS’s commitment to diverse workstyles and enables athletes to pursue both their career and sporting goals simultaneously.
How do you balance work and your athletic activities?
I generally split my time equally between work and training. However, when major competitions approach, I dedicate more time to training. With the Paris Paralympics this year, my athletic focus is expected to increase. I train at my alma mater's athletics field, but since my training schedule depends on availability, I coordinate my sessions carefully with fixed work meetings. Initially, I was uncertain about whether I could deliver strong results in both work and competition, but I’m pleased with the progress I’ve made in my first year at ASICS. I’m getting better at managing both and feel much more confident now.
What challenges have you faced in balancing work and athletics?
From the start, I was eager to become a valuable member of the ASICS team. However, my limited working hours due to my athletic commitments sometimes left me frustrated with my work progress. While the company has been supportive in encouraging me to focus on my athletic career, I sometimes wish I could dedicate more time to work. Balancing both will always be a challenge as long as I continue in sports, but it’s a challenge I’m willing to face.
What rewards and sense of fulfillment do you gain from balancing both work and athletics?
I’ve been living a sports-centered life since junior high, but I’m grateful for the environment at ASICS that allows me to balance work and athletics. I feel proud to be growing both as a professional and an athlete. The knowledge and experience I gain from my work are beneficial in my athletic training. While I spent my university years focused solely on training, I’ve seen greater progress in my results now that I’m balancing both work and athletics. The efficiency gained from working full-time has positively impacted my training. Ultimately, I hope to leverage my athletic experience in my professional role, creating a powerful synergy between the two.
What benefits have you gained from the Athlete Authorization system?
The increased media exposure has been one of the most rewarding aspects. As a para-athlete balancing both work and sports, I’ve had more opportunities for media coverage, including television and newspaper interviews. I believe this not only benefits me as an athlete but also helps raise awareness for parasports as a whole. If my visibility can also help promote ASICS as a company, that would be even more fulfilling.
How have you experienced ASICS's commitment to creating a supportive environment for all employees, regardless of disability?
From the beginning, I was impressed with ASICS’s approach to disability employment and accessibility. I attended lectures on disability employment and barrier-free initiatives and was surprised by how proactively the company addresses these issues. I feel comfortable and supported in my work, and it’s clear that ASICS values diversity. While I don’t personally require assistance in daily life, I would gladly offer support to colleagues who do. It’s fulfilling to think that more people with disabilities may be encouraged to work at ASICS, knowing the company fosters such an inclusive environment.
What are your goals as a para-athlete, and how do you see your career at ASICS evolving in the future?
My primary goal as a para-athlete is to win a medal at the Paralympics. Balancing my work and athletic career, I’m excited to see what results I can achieve at the global stage. It would be amazing to say that the Athlete Authorization system helped me win a medal. As for my career at ASICS, I believe it’s important to never be satisfied with the status quo. I often participate in training programs within the Organization and Talent Management Team, and I’m constantly inspired by my colleagues’ drive and ambition. Ultimately, I aim to balance my work and athletic commitments fully—whether that’s 50/50 or even 100/100—so I can excel in both areas.
Note: The profile and interview content reflect the information at the time of the interview.
