Yuma Yamazaki

Started: She took up Para badminton seriously in 2014. (fujingaho.jp, 16 Dec 2019; city.hino.lg.jp, 01 Jan 2018) Reason: She began playing non-Para badminton in grade two of primary school after being influenced by her friend, and competed at the national championships while in middle school. She decided to get involved in Para badminton after watching a competition for the first time. "I was surprised that it was possible to play the sport in a wheelchair. Athletes looked very happy, so I also wanted to try it." (parasapo.tokyo, Aug 2019; fujingaho.jp, 16 Dec 2019; city.hino.lg.jp, 01 Jan 2018) Additional Info: FOCUS ON SPORT In 2017 she transferred to NTT Urban Development Corporation from Chofu City Office, because she wanted to focus on training. She goes to work once a week, while working from home for the rest of the week. "I was shocked to be defeated in the first round of the singles event at the 2016 Asian Championships [in Beijing, People's Republic of China]. I realised that I needed to concentrate on the sport. It was a big decision for me to quit the Chofu City Office that guaranteed a permanent position. It was the turning point." (tama-100.or.jp, Feb 2019; Chofu City YouTube channel, 11 Jan 2018)