With hopes of realising a society where women can shine, JFA has established 8 March as "JFA Women's Football Day." Here we have conducted an interview with OHNO Shinobu, who won the FIFA Women's World Cup Germany 2011™ as a member of the Nadeshiko Japan (Japan Women's National Team). During this interview, we asked about her role in women’s football and plans following her retirement last season.

*This interview was conducted on 27 February.

――Can you tell us about your role in women’s football.

Ohno　I don’t think I did anything special to help the development. The current state of women’s football was built by the older generations and we were just fortunate to win the World Cup to popularise women’s football. I wasn’t always involved in women’s football and I wouldn’t be here without the presence of the older players. In that sense, I feel very honoured to be a part of something this big.

――Did you face any obstacles during your football career?

Ohno　(With a laugh) Many obstacles. First of all, I didn’t even know about the national team until a joined Nippon TV Menina. Before then, I played for a club team at my hometown. I remember getting distressed over the relationship with my teammates. There were times where I was getting ignored on and off the pitch. Although I wanted to play football, I really wanted to quit at that time.

――How did you overcome that situation?

Ohno　I was young and I wasn’t able to initiate the action myself, but my parents recognised my distress and found me a new team. And that team was Menina. My parents believed in my potential and they really supported me.

――I am surprised to hear a story like that coming from you.

Ohno　I’ve never told this story before. Based on my personality, people assume that I’ve never faced a setback. However, now that I am starting to become a coach, I need to tell these kinds of stories and share the experience I’ve gone through, so that kids facing similar circumstance can relate with. If they like playing football, I want them to continue playing, even through the tough times. I was able to win the world title because I never stopped playing. I know there are many kids distressed for many reasons. Many of their worries can be solved if there are adults around them who can support and lead them towards the right direction.

――Following the 2019 season, you have retired as a player.

Ohno　I personally felt like I can do another year, but I think it was the right timing. I talked with SAWA Homare and MIYAMA Aya many times to seek for their advices. Their words made me realise that I can still be involved in football after my retirement. I was especially persuaded when Sawa mentioned, “Your second career is going to longer.” On the other hand, my father really wanted me to continue playing, as he mentioned, “Don’t be picky, just find a team you can play.” His words really made me realise his dedication for me.

――How will you be involved in women’s football from now?

Ohno　I will try to participate in many events to familiarise women’s football. I will also start as a coach for INAC Tokyo (Youth system of INAC Kobe). I want to be involved in the development category first. I want to emphasise on the kids’ growth as a human and instruct them in words that make sense for them. I want more kids to like football and expand the foundation of women’s football.

――You’ll be creating “Ohno Children."

Ohno　(With a laugh) Yes, I want to create many Ohno children. I was a shy kid growing up, so I want to tell them it’s better not to be shy. I want to develop more outgoing kids who can express their emotions.

▼For more information on the projects and events, please visit the "JFA Women's Football Day" website.