Mao Asada: “For the next chapter of my life, as always, I will give 130% effort. Results take time, so I want to focus on the long-term and do everything I can to support my students in achieving their goals and dreams.”
“130% Effort Every Day”: Mao Asada Begins New Chapter as a Full-Time Coach
original source: Nikkansports, October 9th, 2025 Matsumoto Wataru / news.yahoo.co.jp
Mao Asada, now focusing on her career as a coach, showcased her training sessions at the new Kinoshita MAO Academy, which opened in August 2023. With 30 years in figure skating, Asada is dedicated to nurturing young skaters and helping them achieve their dreams through detailed, hands-on coaching. Here’s a translation of her comments posted on Nikkansports.
On October 9, Mao Asada, a 2010 Vancouver Olympics silver medalist, held an open training session at MAO RINK TACHIKAWA TACHIHI in Tokyo, offering a glimpse into her new role as head coach at the Kinoshita MAO Academy. This marked the academy’s first official showcase since its opening in August, with Asada actively leading her students on the ice and demonstrating her commitment to coaching.
Approximately 70 hopefuls auditioned for the academy, but only 12 students, aged 5 to third grade in elementary school, were selected. When discussing the challenging selection process, Asada shared: “In the end, I relied on my intuition. I chose students who felt right to me. These kids came to us with complete faith, dedicating everything to their training. I want them to feel that attending the Kinoshita MAO Academy was the right decision, so I intend to coach them thoughtfully and with great care.”
That day, she worked directly with 10 students, combining verbal instructions with physical demonstrations to improve their skills. She fostered an encouraging atmosphere, supporting each child’s individual needs.
After practice, Asada shared her thoughts on her new role: “I find it incredibly rewarding and so much fun every day. Every student is unique, so I make a conscious effort to watch them carefully and guide each of them with focus and patience.”
The academy’s rigorous training schedule includes six days of lessons per week, deepening the bond between Asada and her students. Reflecting on the responsibility of shaping young skaters, she noted: “These children are at such a critical and precious stage in their development. They’ve come from all over Japan to train here, and I feel a great sense of responsibility to ensure they benefit from this experience. My goal is to coach in a way that makes them feel glad they joined the Kinoshita MAO Academy.”
On September 25, Asada celebrated her 35th birthday during practice. Her students organized a heartwarming surprise complete with a cake, flowers, and handwritten letters. Speaking about the surprise, she shared with a radiant smile: “It was the happiest I could possibly feel. Their letters included touching messages like, ‘I want to win a gold medal for you and put it around your neck,’ and, ‘I want to take you to the Olympics.’ I was deeply moved.”
Having started skating at the age of 5, Asada recently marked 30 years in the sport. Her dedication remains unwavering: “For the next chapter of my life, as always, I will give 130% effort. Results take time, so I want to focus on the long-term and do everything I can to support my students in achieving their goals and dreams.”
Asada’s efforts to cultivate trust with her students shine through. For example, she noted how a first grader who previously struggled with hand placement during routines improved significantly after expressing a desire to make her coach happy: “These small moments of growth are what make this journey so special.”
More than a training institution, the Kinoshita MAO Academy serves as a foundation for young athletes aspiring to compete on the world stage. Asada emphasized: “I aim to support my students over the long term, helping them take meaningful steps towards their aspirations. It’s not just about immediate results but nurturing their potential for the future.”
Related topics: Mao Asada
Leave a Reply