From YouTube to the Big Game: How a Japanese Kicker’s Passion Transformed Him into an Ohio College Football Hero

This is a story of ambition, passion, and the incredible journey of a young man who dared to dream beyond borders. From the streets of Tokyo to the bright lights of college football, Kansei Matsuzawa’s tale is a testament to following one’s heart and proving that anything is possible with perseverance.

Kansei Matsuzawa’s journey began thousands of miles away in Tokyo, Japan, where he spent his childhood immersed in soccer. A natural leader, he captained his high school team and earned the respect of coaches and teammates alike. After graduating in 2017, he found himself working as a waiter, uncertain about his future.

Then came a pivotal moment—his first trip to the United States. As he watched his first NFL game, something clicked. He was mesmerized by the kickers and began to wonder, “Could I do that?” This spark ignited a dream, planting a seed of determination in his heart. He returned to Japan with a singular goal: to become a college football kicker.

With no formal training, Kansei turned to YouTube, studying videos of Seattle Seahawks kicker Jason Myers. He practiced tirelessly, honing his skills in solitude. His tenacity paid off when he sent highlight reels to about 50 colleges in the U.S., hoping for a break.

The opportunity he sought arrived at Hocking College, a small but welcoming community college in Ohio. During his two seasons there, he shone bright, successfully making 16 of 17 extra points and 12 of 17 field goals, including an impressive 50-yard game-winner. His performance did not go unnoticed, and soon the University of Hawaii opened its doors to him.

Now part of the Rainbows Warriors practice squad for the 2023 season, Kansei’s talent and hard work quickly catapulted him into the spotlight. Last season, he became a pivotal player, hitting all 32 extra points and scoring a total of 68 points. He even achieved academic honors, showcasing his dedication both on the field and in the classroom.

The Big Game

Then came the day that would define his college career. In a nail-biting season opener against Stanford, Hawaii found themselves trailing by three points near the end of the fourth quarter. With nerves steady as can be, Kansei stepped up and nailed a 37-yard field goal to tie the game at 20 with just two minutes left.

The tension in the stadium was palpable. The Warriors regained possession and advanced the ball to Stanford’s 21-yard line with only two seconds remaining on the clock. This was his moment—the chance to turn a dream years in the making into reality.

As he lined up for a 38-yard game-winning field goal, the crowd was silent, hearts racing in unison. The announcer’s voice filled the air: “Snap… kick… is up…” The trajectory of that ball was a culmination of dreams, hopes, and the relentless spirit of a kid who started so far away.

And then, the ball sailed through the uprights. “…and good!!! Hawaii has done it!!!” In that moment, Kansei Matsuzawa instantly became a hero—his improbable dream transformed into reality on the sunlit field of Honolulu.

WATCH the unforgettable moment here…