Akira Saionji is a former professional woman's soccer player, and junior high soccer coach. Prior to her coaching the Hiba Junior High soccer team, Saionji was a Japanese female representative. One of her games was viewed by Yuki, a future student at Josui Junior High. After retiring from professional soccer, Saionji went on to coach the successful Hiba team. She was later offered a job as the assistant coach for the Tokyo Select team, an offer she accepted.