The other day, I had the honor of serving as a judge at Super Japan.
To judge in the world of competitive dance is not merely to evaluate technique.
All the effort and feeling the athletes on the floor have put in until now becomes visible.
From the moment I entered the hall, the athletes' tension came through.
The results of months, of years, of practice must be shown in just a few minutes.
That pressure is greater than you can imagine.
The instant they begin to dance, you can tell how much that person has prepared.
The way they take the music, eye contact with the partner, the way the feet move.
All of it tells a story.
What I felt while scoring
Standing beside the floor as a judge, each athlete's individuality was very clear to see.
There are couples who are technically superb yet somehow lacking something.
And conversely, couples who, though not perfect, dance in a way that strikes the heart.
Having continued this work for over 40 years, what I think is that dance is truly honest.
Surface technique alone cannot move people's hearts.
Looking around the hall, I also see the families and friends who've come to cheer.
Behind every hardworking athlete, there are always people supporting them.
Seeing that, I felt the warmth of this world once again.
What I want to convey as a judge
The act of scoring carries great responsibility.
A single evaluation may shape that athlete's future.
That is exactly why I strive to watch fairly, and with respect.
Because I know how much time and energy the athletes have poured in.
At this competition too, I was shown so many wonderful dances.
The growth of young athletes is a joy, and the depth shown by veterans is moving.
When judging ends and I return to the waiting room, I always think:
It's because these people keep dancing that the world of dance keeps shining.
I myself still take lessons and keep learning.
By watching from a judge's standpoint, there was learning of a different kind.
To all the athletes — thank you for your hard work.
Please keep showing us your wonderful dancing.
You don't often get to see yourself judging, do you?
Thanks to the guests of our staff Higurashi couple for taking the photos.