#Japan #Tokyo #Deaflympics #Arakawa Ward #Mizue Yamada

Mizue Yamada's Proud Visit to Arakawa Ward Mayor

Mizue Yamada, the remarkable table tennis player representing Japan at the Deaflympics, recently paid a visit to Gaku Takiguchi, the mayor of Arakawa Ward, to share her achievements from the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics. At the event, Yamada brought home a silver medal from the women’s team event and a bronze medal in women’s doubles, showcasing her impressive performance on this international stage.

During her visit, Yamada expressed her feelings about the competition, saying, “I made a decision to approach this tournament with a positive mindset, thinking, ‘It’s okay to make mistakes, let's enjoy and smile through it!’ I believe this attitude helped lift my spirits and allowed me to achieve my goals.” Hearing her speak, it becomes clear that her success is as much about her mindset as it is about her skill on the table.

The meeting was filled with warmth, including moments of conversation between Yamada and Mayor Takiguchi, as well as former Japanese national team member Hiroko Fujii, who is actively mentoring young talent through her table tennis classes in the area. These classes are centered at the “Tortoise Table Tennis” facility located in Higashi-Nippori, where Yamada has been honing her skills while preparing for the upcoming competitions.

Community Involvement and Support

Yamada has been a vital part of the community, not only participating in high-stakes tournaments but also engaging with local youth. In August last year, she took part in the “Athlete Level-Up Program,” held at the Arakawa Comprehensive Sports Center, serving as a special guest and coach to aspiring young players. This initiative aims to inspire the next generation of athletes, and Yamada has played a significant role in encouraging local youth.

Furthermore, on November 23, as part of the excitement leading up to the Deaflympics, a public viewing event was held at the same sports center to rally support for Yamada and her team. Fans gathered to cheer for Yamada, Riho Kamezawa, Ami Kimura, and Moemi Yamada during their thrilling matches. The atmosphere was electric, as the community came together to support these athletes in their quest for glory.

Historical Achievements

Mizue Yamada's journey in the world of Deaflympics is noteworthy, marking her fourth consecutive appearance at the prestigious event. Her record is impressive:

• - 2013 Bulgaria: Team Bronze
• - 2017 Turkey: Team Bronze & Doubles Bronze
• - 2022 Brazil: Team Silver & Doubles Bronze
• - 2025 Tokyo: Team Silver & Doubles Bronze

As she reflects on her journey, it is evident that Yamada embodies perseverance and dedication. Her accomplishments not only highlight her skill as an athlete but also the essential support of her community and mentors. The upcoming Deaflympics in Tokyo holds the promise of more success for Yamada, as she continues to chase her Olympic dreams while inspiring young athletes in Arakawa and beyond. Her story is one of hard work, community spirit, and the pursuit of excellence, making her a true ambassador for the sport.

In summary, Mizue Yamada's achievements at the Deaflympics, coupled with her active engagement with the Arakawa community, showcase a bright future ahead, embodying the essence of sportsmanship and determination. We look forward to her next feats as she prepares for another competition, and we cheer her on as she continues to amaze us all.