I played table tennis until junior high school, but in high school I decided to try something new and jumped into the world of kyudo (Japanese archery). My only impression of kyudo was that a friend's older sister had experience with it, so I knew almost nothing about it.

Maebashi Municipal Maebashi High School, where I attended, participates in national competitions almost every year. First, we are required to thoroughly master the basic forms, and first-year students repeatedly practice the correct procedures and imitate the examples. Because I thoroughly mastered the basics, I was able to participate in the Inter-High School Championships in my second year of high school. However, what I witnessed at the national competition was the high level of the competitors. I realized how narrow my world had been, thinking, "There are people who are this skilled."

When I wanted to continue practicing kyudo at university, I happened to see a video of the J. F. Oberlin University Kyudo club on YouTube. It's hard to put into words, but I was overwhelmed by the atmosphere different from other universities. I wanted to practice in the same environment as them and improve my archery skills, so I decided to enroll.

I believe that kyudo is not just a sport where you hit the target. Confidently aiming at the target with confidence. That is the true charm of kyudo. The J. F. Oberlin University members of the Kyudo club shown in the footage all seemed to be drawing their bows with confidence.

After entering university, I was impressed by the attitude of each club member as they approached kyudo. For example, the captain Usui's archery is very refined. There are countless people who want to "imitate this part," but I feel that it's not just about mastering technique—it's their sincere dedication to kyudo, which I feel we must learn from.

I moved to Tokyo from Gunma Prefecture and now live alone. I aim to balance studies and club activities, but there are still many aspects I'm not used to. Kyudo is sometimes said to show personality in the bow. Without a regular daily routine, you can't aim for refined archery. I want to get into the rhythm of daily life and strive to live a life centered around kyudo.

If you have the chance to watch the competition, I hope you will pay special attention to the J. F. Oberlin University 's 'kai' (kai). 'Kai' refers to the state of drawing the bow and the state just before releasing the arrow. The length of pause just before the bow is released, the seriousness of the posture and expression when aiming at the target. I believe the beauty of the kai has created the tradition of the J. F. Oberlin University Kyudo club.

I will continue to practice hard every day so that I can achieve good results in both individual and team competitions. Thank you for your continued support.