The NMI Men’s National Soccer Team members poses for a photo in Mongolia, the host of the EAFF E-1 Football Championships in which the NMI drew with Macau, 1-1, on Sept. 6, 2018.
Coach Michiteru Mita
ONE of Michiteru Mita’s most memorable achievements as coach of the NMI Men’s National Soccer Team was their drawn game against Macau in the EAFF E-1 Football Championships in Mongolia on Sept. 6, 2018.
Mita served as the team’s coach from Feb. 2017 to Jan. 2024.
Eight of his former players on Tuesday shared with Variety their appreciation and “sendoff” message.
Vice Captain Enrico del Rosario (defender) said his favorite memory was the “Japan training camp — the team went for a walk and stopped by the beach. We had some free time to just hang out by the beach. I sat at the side and was enjoying the view. Coach sat by me, and we had a good conversation about football and just about life in general.”
Del Rosario added, “This talk made me connect with coach and made me understand him as a coach and a person.”
His sendoff message to Mita: “It was an honor playing under you, and I’ll always remember everything that you’ve taught me. Thank you for everything you’ve done for football in the NMI and good luck in your future.”
For Thaiphi Austria (defender), his favorite memory of Coach Mita “would be the after-training talks he would have with you to not only talk about football but what’s going on in your personal life. He wasn’t just a coach, but he was also a great friend and mentor off the pitch. I was one of the youngest players in the men’s team going to Mongolia for the EAFF tournament and he always believed in me and pushed me to be the best player I could be. Even if he wasn’t around, I would always remember him saying ‘Thaiphi, keep going!’ ”
Austria added, “I have improved so much because of Coach Mita, and because of his training I was able to compete at the collegiate level. Coach Mita, I would like to say thank you. Thank you for everything you have done for me and the soccer community on Saipan. Your hard work and dedication to [the NMI Football Association] and the national team will never go unnoticed, and I wish you the best and hope to see you again soon!”
Jonathan Capayas (defender) said he is grateful “for being on the national team and training under Coach Mita because at a young age I learned to be disciplined. That translated over to my military career, and it helped me get recognized for various awards. He is one of the first greatest examples of not just a coach, but a leader. I aspire to lead teams as great as he did with the national team. He made me believe in myself and I wish him well on his next adventure in life.”
Ryu Tanzawa (midfielder and forward) said Coach Mita was the reason he was able to play in Mongolia. “He gave me the opportunity to go to a university in Japan and play soccer all year long. By playing in Japan, I was able to experience football outside of Saipan and how different it was. I definitely wouldn’t have leveled up and be a part of an E1 tournament team. Coach Mita also helped me during the C license coaching course. I would like to thank Coach Mita and everything he has done to level up NMI football. Coach, we wish you the best of luck on your next adventure!”
For Josh “Hark” Galarion (defender) his “most memorable memory would be me telling Coach Mita, ‘I only have 5% body fat and I don’t know where it is.’ Coach Mita pinched the side of my stomach and said, ‘Here it is.’ Coach, I can’t thank you enough for the time and effort you put into NMI soccer. You have brought NMI soccer to a higher level. I will never forget you and will always miss you. I wish nothing but the best in your future endeavors. I hope to see you soon.”
Goalkeeper John Bucayo said “tying 1-1 against Macau was unforgettable; the energy on the field and the collective effort of the team made it a memorable moment for our team and our soccer community. Thank you Coach Mita for seven incredible years of guidance, support and inspiration on the soccer field.”
Joel Fruit (midfielder) said: “Back in the day I had a profound and motivational encounter with Coach Mita that left a lasting impression on me at halftime of a big match. During a private moment, he shared a powerful quote that resonated deeply. Unfortunately, out of respect for Coach Mita’s wishes, I am unable to disclose the exact words he imparted to me. Coach Mita’s guidance has become a source of inspiration, driving me to excel both on and off the field. While I am unable to share the specific quote, the wisdom imparted during our conversation has undoubtedly contributed to my personal growth and development. Coach Mita, as I bid farewell, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the invaluable guidance and motivation you have shared with me. Your wisdom has left an indelible mark on my journey, and I am genuinely appreciative of the impact you’ve had on my growth, both as an athlete and an individual.”
Anthony Fruit (midfielder) said: “Years ago, our national team embarked on an unforgettable training camp in Japan. It wasn’t just a trip; it was a bridge connecting our past with our future. Coach Seki, a familiar face, led us into uncharted territories and victories against strong opposition. Amidst the excitement of Japan, we began a new chapter together. Enter Coach Mita, a serious and disciplined figure at first glance. As the usual laughter echoed during team gatherings, it became clear beneath the stern exterior lay a coach ready to immerse himself in island life. The remaining games in Japan revealed the coaching ability of our new mentor. His advice resonated with us in every kick of the ball. I think at this moment, Coach Mita was also excited. But little did he know he was stepping into the dynamic of Saipan, our island home, where many challenges awaited. The transition was a mutual transformation. We were still a young and unorganized team, but together, we grew into a tight unit with him as a catalyst for our shared growth. In the end, the most memorable moments were the little ones. The laughter, the inside jokes, the challenges, the victories celebrated together. Japan was not just a destination; it was the beginning of friendships and a new era for the NMI. It has been a pleasure watching our team grow together! Thank you Coach Mita, and cheers to the future.”
Enrico Del Rosario, Joel Fruit, Jehn Joyner and Bo Barry are considered pioneers of the NMI men’s team. They started playing soccer at the same time that the NMI Football Association was established.
In the NMI men’s match against Macau in 2018, it was Sunjoon Tenorio who scored in the 33rd minute of the first half to tie the game, 1-1.
The other members of the team were Sebastien Manabat, Jonathan Takano, John Rojas, Christopher Aninzo, Nicolas Swaim and Dai Podziewski.
