Norio Sasaki

Norio Sasaki is a Japanese former professional footballer and manager. Having played football until he was 33, in 1997 Sasaki moved into coaching where he managed Omiya Ardija, the team he had played for. In 2006 he joined the Japanese Women's National Team setup, starting as assistant coach. He eventually became head coach in 2008. Under his management the Japanese team flourished, winning the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup and the 2010 Asian games. He also led the team to an Olympic silver medal in 2012. Sasaki retired from coaching in 2016.