The Yamanashi Classroom Behind a Manila Flag Bearer
At the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, judoka Seimi Watanabe competes in the women’s 78-kilogram division representing the Philippines, stepping onto the mat with the backing of her students at Fujigakuen High School in Yamanashi Prefecture. Watanabe, 30, enters the competition following first-round exits at consecutive Olympic Games, balancing her training schedule with teaching duties at her alma mater since last year, according to reports published by Yomiuri Shimbun.
From Childhood Isolation to the Dojo
Born to a Japanese father and a Filipino mother, Watanabe moved to Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture, when she was in the fourth grade. Finding her footing in a new environment proved difficult as she struggled with the Japanese language and faced prejudice from peers who singled out her mixed heritage. Seeking an outlet, she discovered a local judo dojo where children interacted freely regardless of background and supported each other through physical training. The welcoming atmosphere drew her into the sport.
A Defining Choice for International Competition
During her third year at Fujigakuen High School, Watanabe finished second at the Inter-High School Championships, prompting the All Japan Judo Federation to ask whether she intended to represent Japan or the Philippines on the international stage. She chose the Philippines, reasoning that it would provide more frequent opportunities to compete internationally and challenge herself, utilizing her dual heritage to pursue a global career.
Watanabe Starts Teaching After Olympic Setbacks
After serving as the flag bearer for the Philippine delegation at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where she exited in the initial round, Watanabe sought redemption at the 2024 Paris Games but again failed to advance. Contemplating retirement, she received an invitation from her high school mentor, Yutaka Yazaki, 46, to try teaching. She joined the faculty in April of last year to broaden her perspective outside of competitive sports.
Life as Educator and Training Partner
Watanabe currently teaches health and physical education and serves as the vice-homeroom teacher for a second-year class at Fujigakuen High School. After classes finish, she guides roughly 15 judo club members, frequently serving as a training partner for her students. Despite the busy schedule managing both professions, she notes that she wears her judo gi more often now than she did when her training and rest days were strictly divided.
Chasing a Return to the Asian Games Podium
Looking ahead to her matches, Watanabe aims to secure her first podium finish at the Asian Games since winning a silver medal at the 2018 Jakarta Games. She stated her intention to give her absolute best in every single match and demonstrate resilience to her students and supporters.
