When Japan’s field hockey team stood atop the podium at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta, it was a moment that changed the nation’s sporting history. For the first time, the Land of the Rising Sun had claimed gold in men’s hockey at the continental showpiece. At the heart of it all was their captain, Manabu Yamashita.
A defender with a warrior’s resilience, Yamashita was never the man fans looked to for spectacular goals. In fact, across his 199 international appearances, he scored just once — against Sri Lanka at those very Games. But his leadership, calmness under pressure, and unshakable spirit carried Japan through, culminating in the unforgettable moment when the Japanese anthem rang out at Jakarta’s Gelora Bung Karno stadium.
It was never about me scoring goals. In 2018, our team had one clear vision — to be ready for the Tokyo Olympics. We went to Jakarta with the Samurai Spirit. Even though our condition was not ideal before the tournament, the more we played, the stronger we became. Finally, we won the gold. That was our history.
A New Dawn for Asian Hockey
That victory was more than a medal; it was a declaration. In a sport long dominated by the giants of Asia — India, Pakistan and Korea — Japan had emerged as a new champion. For Japanese hockey, it was a golden sunrise.
From Captain to Coach and Back
Yet Yamashita’s story did not end there. He once again carried the captain’s armband at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, guiding his teammates through the immense pressure of competing at home. But soon after, his journey took a new turn. By 2023, he had swapped the stick for a clipboard, serving as an assistant coach at the Hockey World Cup in India.
Being a coach and a player is obviously different. As a coach, I had to prepare strategies, analyse opponents, and think about the game from above, not just on the pitch. That experience gave me new lessons. It helped me grow not just as a coach, but also as a player.
Watching from the sidelines, however, reignited his hunger. “Attending big games as a coach, I felt this pull. I wanted to play again. But at my age, the return was not easy. Getting my body back to professional fitness was a tough process.”
The Comeback and a New Role
His comeback came at the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai, where he once again wore Japanese colours with pride. Now 36, Yamashita prepares for his fourth Asia Cup in Rajgir, Bihar, beginning August 29 — this time as vice-captain.
As captain, my job was to motivate everyone, to carry the team forward. As vice-captain now, my mission is to share my experiences with the younger players. The team must always evolve, and I want to make sure they feel supported.
Balancing Life, Family and Hockey
That spirit of mentorship extends beyond the turf. Off the field, Yamashita leads the life of an ordinary professional, working weekdays at a Japanese company and training by night. The balancing act has become even more meaningful with the arrival of his baby daughter.
Hockey is my passion but my little girl gives me new energy every day. She reminds me why I fight, why I push myself.
Symbol of Japan’s Hockey Dream
Looking back, Yamashita has witnessed Japanese hockey grow from a hopeful competitor into a genuine challenger among Asia’s elite. “Throughout my career, I have felt Japan can compete with the top nations. We can play fast, modern hockey, and we can win.” For Japan, his journey is symbolic. From lifting a historic gold in Jakarta, to analysing tactics as a coach in India, to mentoring the next generation as vice-captain, Yamashita stands as the bridge between past glory and future promise.
The Fire Still Burns
As the Asia Cup approaches, the veteran knows his playing days are nearing twilight. But the fire within remains undimmed. “My dream is to see Japan consistently compete with the world’s best. Whether as a player or a coach, I will give everything to make that dream real." In 2018, he showed Asia what Japan could achieve. In 2025, Manabu Yamashita is ensuring that dream carries forward.
