Kazuto Itadachi, a prominent figure in the world of wrestling and the head coach of Kinjo Gakuin University, has announced his retirement after a remarkable career that produced an astounding 14 Olympic gold medalists among his students. This announcement was made public on March 20, 2025, with Itadachi set to officially retire at the end of March.
At 64 years old, Itadachi has been at the helm of the university's wrestling program since its days as Chukyo Women's University, which was the school's predecessor. Throughout his tenure, he established a distinguished reputation for nurturing exceptional talent in female wrestling, many of whom have gone on to achieve Olympic glory.
Itadachi’s coaching career has left an indelible mark on the sport. His commitment to excellence is reflected in the numerous accolades that his athletes have received over the years. Under his guidance, students showed extraordinary prowess on the international stage, bringing home gold medals that have celebrated the university's legacy in sports.
His retirement marks the end of an era not just for Kinjo Gakuin University, but for Japanese wrestling as well. As a mentor, Itadachi has not only trained athletes but has shaped the very fabric of competitive wrestling culture here. His students often credit him for their success, attributing much of their determination and skills to his teachings.
It is reported that after his retirement from the coaching position, Itadachi will continue to contribute to the university by teaching wrestling from April 2025 onward. This transition allows him to continue nurturing young athletes while stepping back from the rigorous demands of head coaching.
The landscape of wrestling at Kinjo Gakuin University will surely feel different without Itadachi at the forefront. For many, he has been more than just a coach; he has been a guiding figure, an inspiration, and a key driver of success. The announcement of his retirement brings mixed feelings of gratitude for his contributions and sadness for a significant loss in the leadership of the wrestling program.
As he prepares to step down, there is no doubt that Itadachi's influence will resonate for years to come among those he has coached. His legacy, defined by a commitment to excellence and a passion for the sport, will continue inspiring both current and future generations of wrestlers. The late March timeline symbolizes not only the end of his coaching chapter but also the beginning of a new phase in his life dedicated to teaching and empowering young athletes.
In an age where sports dynamics continue to evolve, Itadachi's retirement also brings insight into the importance of mentorship and leadership in athletics. His journey reminds us that successful coaching goes beyond just achieving titles; it is primarily about fostering skills, character, and resilience in the athletes.
While the university will surely miss Itadachi at the helm, his transition to a teaching role signals a hopeful continuation of his legacy. The forthcoming changes will open opportunities for new coaches to step in and carry forward the rich tradition of excellence that has come to be associated with Kinjo Gakuin University’s wrestling program. The future looks bright for the university as it seeks to honor the past while preparing for the challenges that students will face in upcoming competitions.
As Itadachi moves forward, the wrestling community and his students will remember his contribution with great admiration, celebrating a career that has significantly influenced the landscape of women's wrestling in Japan.
