#Japan #Tokyo #Taisho University #Hakone Ekiden #Masami Soeta

Taisho University Introduces New Track and Field Team

In a move set to elevate its athletic prestige, Taisho University has announced the establishment of a new track and field team as part of a broader initiative to enhance its sports program. This new team, which is to debut on April 1, 2026, coincides with the university’s 100th anniversary, emphasizing a commitment to improving student athletic performance and strengthening the university's brand.

The appointment of Masami Soeta as the inaugural coach marks a significant step in this endeavor. Soeta brings a wealth of experience from his extensive background in university ekiden (long-distance relay racing) coaching. With a proven track record of leading teams at the prestigious Hakone Ekiden, Soeta is well-regarded for his ability to foster both athletic development and personal growth in his athletes. His leadership is expected to play a crucial role in the formation of this new team and the pursuit of excellence in competition.

In addition to Soeta, the university has also welcomed Nobuharu Sato as the team’s scout and strength coach. Sato, who boasts considerable experience in coaching at both corporate and university levels, will work closely with Soeta to bolster player development and enhance the team’s competitiveness.

The mission of Taisho University’s track and field team extends beyond mere athletic achievements; it aims to cultivate characteristics such as resilience and teamwork among its members, while also fostering connections within the local community. The university envisions this initiative as a zero-to-hero challenge, emphasizing that while competitive results are important, nurturing student growth will take precedence.

Aiming for national recognition, the team set its sights on securing a spot in the Hakone Ekiden, a coveted goal within Japanese university sports. The establishment of this team represents a bold new chapter for Taisho University, known for its unique collaborative spirit among different Buddhist sects, and its foundational ethos of wisdom and compassion.

Background on the Coaches

Coach Profile: Masami Soeta

• - Date of Birth: March 29, 1977 (Age 49)
• - Alma Mater: Kokushikan University
• - Career Highlights:

- Long-distance coach at Tokyo University of Economics (2010-2015)
- Coach for Kokushikan University’s ekiden team (2015-2022), including leading the team to eight consecutive Hakone Ekiden appearances
- Appointed as Taisho University’s head coach starting April 2026

Scout and Strength Coach Profile: Nobuharu Sato

• - Date of Birth: January 11, 1961 (Age 65)
• - Hometown: Fukushima
• - Career Highlights:

- Coached at Fujitsu Track & Field Club (2003) and JAL Ground Services (2005)
- Provided vital support to Kokushikan University’s team in securing top-level national honors after joining the coaching staff in 2018
- Scheduled to begin as a coach at Taisho University in April 2026

About Taisho University

Founded in 1926, Taisho University operates under the collaborative spirit of four Buddhist sects: Tendai, Shingon, Pure Land, and Jodo. The university's core philosophy, rooted in the concept of wisdom and compassion, focuses on holistic education that transcends academic boundaries. As it approaches its centennial, Taisho University is set to embark on a renewed journey of educational and research achievements, embracing the spirit of practicing wisdom and compassion as an integral part of its mission.

For more information, visit Taisho University’s official website.