Mayu, can you tell us about your early days in Japan? How did football become such a big part of your life? (Were you kicking a ball around since kindergarten, or did your love for the game come later?)
My dad used to play football, so I started kicking a ball around when I was just four years old. From a young age, I was always full of energy. Instead of playing indoors or with dolls like many girls my age, I loved running around outside with the boys, chasing the ball. Football felt natural to me—it became a big part of who I am very early on.
What was your journey like from Japan to Malaysia, what made you decide to join Galaxi Girls FC? (Was it a big leap for you or did it feel like the right adventure at the right time?)
One of my former coaches in Japan was also working with a team in Malaysia, and he invited me to come here. At the time, I was curious but nervous about making such a big move. Still, I trusted him and decided to take the opportunity. That’s how I ended up in Malaysia and I’m so grateful I did.
How different is football culture in Malaysia compared to Japan? Are there any surprising differences you've noticed, on or off the pitch?
When I first arrived, I was really impressed by the facilities and the passion of the fans. Seeing big crowds at matches was exciting and motivating. At the same time, I noticed that the overall level of play here is still developing. I think there's a lot of potential, especially in areas like physical training and the foundational skills of the game. But the love for football is strong here, and that’s the most important part.
What has life in Malaysia been like so far? What’s something unexpected that you’ve really grown to love here? (Maybe the food, the people, or even the weather?)
What I truly love about Malaysia is how warm and friendly everyone is. Even when meeting someone for the first time, people are open and kind—it’s easy to feel at home. I’m often greeted with big smiles and positive energy, and that has made a huge difference for me emotionally. It’s something I really appreciate every day.
Do you miss anything from home in Japan? And is there something you wish you could bring from Japan to share with your teammates here?
Honestly, I’m very happy with my life here in Malaysia. I’ve adjusted well, and I don’t find myself missing too much. Of course, I do miss some of the little things from back home—like Shiroi Koibito, which is a very popular sweet from Hokkaido. I used to always bring it as a souvenir when visiting people. But overall, I feel very content here.
Describe your experience playing for Galaxi Girls FC—how would you describe the team’s spirit and style?
Galaxi Girls FC has truly become like a second family to me. From the very beginning, I felt welcomed with open arms. It’s such a warm, supportive, and positive environment, and that means so much— especially when you're living far from home. Even though my English isn’t perfect, my teammates are always patient and kind. They really make the effort to understand me, and we’ve developed our own ways of communicating, both on and off the pitch. There’s a strong sense of teamwork and trust here, and that makes every training session and match something I genuinely look forward to. I feel incredibly lucky and grateful to be part of this team, surrounded by such kind-hearted and passionate people who share the same love for football.
How has your playing style or mindset changed since coming to Malaysia? Has the environment here challenged you in new ways?
My playing style hasn’t changed too much since my time in Japan, but I’ve definitely become more focused on making an impact individuall —breaking through defenses and creatin decisive moments that lead to goals. I feel a strong desire to contribute to the team in meaningful ways. I love this team so much, and I want to help make us stronger and more competitive.
Off the field, what do you enjoy doing during your free time here in Malaysia? Have you picked up any new hobbies or local habits?
Outside of football, I’ve been enjoying so many new experiences. I love prawn fishing and playing in the rivers—things I never really did in Japan. My teammates often invite me to new places and introduce me to different parts of Malaysian life. I’m so thankful for that. These are memories I’lltreasure forever.
Who are your closest friends on the Galaxi Girls team and what do they mean to you both on and off the pitch?
My closest friend on the team is Fife. We have the same hairstyle and hair color, so everyone affectionately calls us “the twins,” which always makes us laugh. She’s the kind of person who lights up any room she walks into, always full of energy, constantly smiling, and bringing so much positivity to those around her. No matter what kind of day I’m having, she knows how to cheer me up or make me laugh. Over time, she’s become more than just a teammate, she’s someone I truly admire and trust, both on and off the pitch. We’ve shared so many great memories together, and I really treasure our bond. She holds a very special place in my heart, and I’m so grateful to have her by my side here in Malaysia.
If you could play a friendly match anywhere in the world with Galaxi Girls FC, where would it be and why? (Dream big—any stadium, any country!)
One of my dreams is to go back to Japan and play a match against my old team. I want to show my Galaxi teammates what football is like in my home country and also share a bit of the culture I come from. It would mean a lot to me to bring those two parts of my life together, even just for one game.
