Breaking barriers
May 16, 2006 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
New York Dragons News Release
The first Japanese player set foot on an AFL field Friday night when Mutsumi Takahashi was announced as the starting offensive specialist for the Dragons. Prior to the Dragons Week 16 at Dallas, Takahashi was activated from the International Practice Squad, where he spent the better part of three seasons. Takahashi took the coin toss versus American Airlines Center as one of the Dragons captains to kickoff off his first professional game.
Dallas' defense was prepared to cover the 5-5, 171 lbs. Takahashi, but that didn't stop him from leading the team in all-purpose yards with 164. When it was all said and done, Takahashi recorded four receptions for 63 yards in the game. He also added six kickoff returns for 97 yards with the longest of 28 yards.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to play in the AFL," said Takahashi after the game on Friday night. "This is something I will never forget."
Before the game, Takahashi made note that even someone at his size of 5-foot, five-inches tall can score a touchdown. But although he didn't find the endzone, Takahashi showed that he could still beat defenders with his speed and handle the hard hits, even getting flipped by one Dallas defender.
Takahashi hopes that professional football will soon be in Japan, where they currently only have football as an amateur sport. He also hopes that he can help bring it there. He said he would love to be able to go home to his country where his wife and son reside and play on his home turf.
As for now, Takahashi appreciates the opportunity the Dragons have given him and loves being able to develop more as a player behind some of the best receivers in the league.
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