Two days after the quarterfinal match against Italy, Yuki Ishikawa, one of the standout athletes of the Japanese volleyball team, had an intriguing conversation with teammate Tomohiro Yamamoto. This dialogue not only revolved around volleyball but also opened up deep thoughts about the future and the desire to conquer new heights in their sports careers.
The Memorable Conversation
When Ishikawa asked Yamamoto, “Tomo-kun, what are you doing?,” Yamamoto replied that he was contemplating his future after the Paris Olympics. He expressed, “I don’t want to retire. I want to compete until I’m 40 years old.” This strong desire from a passionate athlete showcases an unwavering determination in his sports journey.
The Desire to Compete Until the End
Yamamoto not only looks at the present but also focuses on the future. He said, “There were times I thought I should forget about volleyball… But when I saw highlights of volleyball, I thought: ‘I can still do it!‘” This shows that his passion for the sport still burns brightly within him.
Yamamoto continued, “I have decided. If I win a medal this time, maybe the story would be different. But I’m still young (29 years old) and have not faced any injuries, so I think I can still do it.” His confidence is encouraging not just for himself but also for teammates and fans.
The Future of the Japanese National Team
With a clear vision for the future, Yamamoto emphasizes the importance of bringing the team members together: “If Sekita can do it, then I think others can too. If we want to win, we will need these members.” This highlights that team spirit and unity are key to achieving success.
Gathering Team Members
“Even with only a year until the Olympics, I still want to gather the members,” Yamamoto affirmed. This demonstrates the meticulous preparation the team needs to undertake in order to tackle upcoming challenges.
Conclusion
The conversation between Yuki Ishikawa and Tomohiro Yamamoto reflects the thoughts of Japanese athletes after a challenging tournament, while also revealing their burning desires for the future. With determination and aspiration, both are aiming for a promising Paris Olympics ahead. Fans of Japanese volleyball have every reason to hope for further success from the team in the near future.
