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Mutsumi Harada is in his first year as an assistant coach for Stanford men's gymnastics. Harada travels to the Bay Area after coaching men's gymnastics at Juntendo University in Inbamura, Japan, where his team placed second at the 2005 Japanese University Championships. Harada also coached one of his athletes to a gold medal in the all-around competition at the 2005 Championships.
Harada was the assistant coach for the 2005 Japanese World University Team that won team gold and five individual medals, including gold in the all-around competition. At the 2004 Olympic games, Harada was the assistant coach for the gold medal-winning Japanese team. Harada also coached Japan's bronze medal-winning team at the 2003 World Championships. Under Harada's coaching, Japan boasted three individual medals at the 2003 World Championships, including gold on pommel horse and horizontal bar.
Harada has been involved with the Japanese National Team as either a coach or athlete for 14 years. As an athlete, Harada was a 2000 Olympian for Japan in Sydney and was also a member of the 1999 World Team.
Mutsumi Harada chose Stanford for its educational opportunities and large Japanese community in the Bay Area. Stanford was strongly recommended by gymnastics professionals on both sides of the Pacific. Harada, his wife Kanna and son Kairi arrived a week ago and will reside in Mountain View.