For the last two years, Yuta Abe was helping to grow the sport of wrestling in Samoa as a Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) volunteer. He is now bidding farewell to his new friends and family, with the hopes of returning.

He said he hopes to continue supporting the growth of wrestling, adding that he truly believes there is an exciting future ahead for Samoa Wrestling.

“When I look back on these past two years, I feel nothing but gratitude,” he said, recalling how he was warmly welcomed from the beginning by the President of the Wrestling Association and the athletes who trusted him as their coach.

He also reflected on the growth of the program, noting that when he first arrived, there were only four students, but the team has now expanded into a vibrant group of more than 20 wrestlers.

“It has been a great honour and joy to be part of this journey,” Abe said, emphasising his gratitude and optimism for the sport’s continued development in Samoa.

On 10 April, Abe paid a courtesy call on Japan's Ambassador to Samoa, Ryotaro Suzuki, upon completing his two-year assignment in Samoa.

Abe served as a wrestling coach with the Samoa Wrestling Association, where he dedicated his time to supporting the development of wrestling in Samoa and helping nurture young athletes.

His two-year assignment comes to an end on 14 April.

Under Abe's guidance, the wrestling team managed to scoop many medals at the recently held Oceania Wrestling Championship. 

He hopes that Samoa will one day bring a medal from the Olympic Games.