A mother’s battle against odds in pursuit of Olympic dream

All set to quit when she gave birth to Asuka in 2007,it was her husband’s love for the sport and coaxing that helped Kanematsu break tradition. A year later,her husband was diagnosed with a rare form of Parkinson’s disease,triggering another bout of responsibility to her daughter and family and wanting to quit the sport — but her husband would not let her.

“He keeps telling me to play,because he loves rugby. He would not allow me to quit. When I stay home and miss practice,he takes my kit and throws me out of the house,” she explains in broken English. With many in her family insisting on her sticking to tradition and quit,Kanematsu’s parents and in-laws took over her duties,allowing her to travel abroad for tournaments without worrying. It has paid off,according to coach Keiko Asami.

“She is one of the best players in the team. She has a quick step,she’s tough in body and mind and is the game-maker. She is also a good kicker,” said the coach. Her role is key for a Japanese victory,according to the coach. As a part-time school teacher,she remains an inspiration to her students in her class and her teammates on the pitch.

Like every other sportsperson,Kanematsu dreams of winning an Olympic medal in 2016. And that’s what keeps her — and her family — from giving up. While she remains away either for training or competitions for most of the year,she speaks to her daughter whenever she gets the chance. She kisses the air,indicating what she will do when she sees her daughter. As for her husband,an Olympic medal will go a long way in easing the pain of Parkinson’s.