In Memory of Shoichi Kasuo
IJRU is deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Shoichi Kasuo, a Japan Jump Rope Union (JJRU) Board Member and IJRU Outreach Committee Member, who passed away on October 17, 2026, at the age of 40. Socichi was long-time contributor to the sport for many years over the course of his life and made it his mission to share his passion of jump rope to communities around Japan and around the world. JJRU has shared the following message honoring Shoichi’s life, accomplishments, and contributions to the sport of jump rope:
In Memory of Shoichi Kasuo
October 22, 2026
Thank you for your continued support of the Japan Jump Rope Union (JJRU). Shoichi Kasuo (nickname: Macchan), a leader in the Japanese jump rope community for many years who contributed extensively to JJRU’s activities, suddenly passed away on October 17, 2026 at the age of 40. JJRU would like to express its deepest gratitude for your kindness shown to him during his lifetime, and hereby respectfully announce his passing.
As an athlete, Shoichi made remarkable accomplishments, such as winning the overall individual competition in both the All Japan National Championships as well as in the Asian Championships several times, greatly contributing to the advancement of jump rope competition in Japan. After retiring from competition, he performed approximately 2,500 times overseas as an exclusive jump rope artist in the world-renowned entertainment group “Cirque du Soleil,” revealing to the world the possibility of jump rope as a form of performance.
After returning to Japan, Shoichi devoted his life to coaching the next generation and growing the sport. In addition to visiting over 600 schools nationwide to teach jump rope, he founded the Japan Jump Rope Academy and made a considerable contribution by coaching children and training top athletes of the next generation as a board member of JJRU. The children he taught are presently active leading athletes both domestically and abroad. The enthusiasm and great smile of Shoichi is deeply ingrained in the hearts of many people, due to his belief that “You can do anything with a jump rope,” and motto of instilling dreams and confidence in children.
JJRU would like to express its sincere gratitude and respect for the tremendous contribution Shoichi made over the years and offer heartfelt prayers for his peaceful rest. In order that the efforts that Shoichi put into growing the sport of jump rope with a passion, JJRU fully intends to carry on his legacy, and strive to further develop both jump rope competition and culture.
At the request of the bereaved family, his funeral was conducted by only family and people with a direct connection to him. Please understand that is the reason why you are being informed of his passing after the fact.
Respectfully,
Japan Jump Rope Union (JJRU)
IJRU extends its heartfelt condolences to Shoichi’s family, friends, colleagues, and everyone whose life he touched. Shoichi made a lasting impact on the global jump rope community through his achievements as an athlete and performer, and through his dedication to coaching and inspiring the next generation. His contributions reached far beyond Japan, and his passion for the sport touched people around the world. He will be remembered for his dedication to jump rope and the lasting legacy he leaves within our sport.