Saki Watanabe, a Japanese American soccer player, reflects on her childhood in Southern California, where she lacked role models in soccer. With the entrance of Angel City into the NWSL and the rise of Japanese players like Jun Endo, representation in soccer is improving. This change is crucial for young girls who now see relatable figures in the sport, inspiring them to aspire to similar achievements. The increasing visibility of athletes such as Shohei Ohtani also contributes to a brighter future for Japanese soccer players in America, fostering a sense of possibility and hope.
"I did wish there were other players like me," said Watanabe, a former college player... "I didn't have a player that I looked up to."
"That's a really cool thing that's happening... For my daughter that's even more relatable, having the Japanese representation."
"It's a responsibility to be in a position where people, they feel inspired."
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