Player Spotlight: Tyler Kato

By: Jeffrey Ellingsworth

For Tyler Kato, AFC Ann Arbor has never been just a summer stop or a line on a résumé. It’s been part of his life story.

Kato made his first appearance as a player for AFC Ann Arbor in 2022 while still in high school, but his connection to the club began long before he ever stepped onto the field in a Mighty Oak kit. Growing up as a fan, attending matches with family and friends, and even appearing in the first club promotional video back in 2014, Kato’s journey with AFC Ann Arbor has come full circle.

“When I made my debut in 2022, I was just extremely excited,” Kato said. “Being a fan my whole life and then getting the opportunity to actually play, especially in front of my family, friends, and people who’ve been around the club for so long, it was really surreal.”

That first moment on the field was fueled by adrenaline and nerves, but it was also the realization of a childhood dream. Since then, the midfielder has played four seasons with the club, continually returning to Ann Arbor whenever his schedule allows.

What keeps bringing him back is something deeper than competition.

“AFC is more than just a club, it's truly a family,” Kato said. “They embody community and togetherness. It’s not just about soccer. It’s about serving the people of Ann Arbor, bringing joy to families, and inspiring the next generation.”

That sense of community is something Kato noticed early on. Seeing how much the club meant to kids, parents, and families throughout the city helped him understand that AFC Ann Arbor was about more than wins and losses.

“I realized it was more than a team when I saw how involved they were in the community,” he said. “They genuinely care about bringing the joy of the game to people, especially kids who might not always have access to it.”

Kato’s perspective on soccer and togetherness was also shaped by time spent overseas. He was born in Japan and spent much of elementary school, middle school, and part of high school there. The experience proved formative both on and off the field.

“The level of soccer there was very high and very technical,” Kato said. “I grew a lot as a player, but also as a person. Everything was about team cohesion and togetherness, not individuals standing out, but everyone working together.”

That environment helped mold Kato into the team-first player he prides himself on being today. Even while living abroad, he and his family continued to support AFC Ann Arbor from afar, strengthening their bond with the club.

“Staying connected was so important because those relationships don’t just disappear,” Kato said. “If anything, being away made my desire to come back even stronger. It showed how special the club really is.”

After graduating high school, Kato took the next step in his soccer journey by committing to the Air Force Academy. The opportunity was one he couldn’t pass up.

“It was a world-class education, incredible facilities, and a high-level soccer program,” he said. “It felt like the best opportunity to set me up for life.”

During his two seasons at Air Force, Kato gained valuable experience playing significant minutes against top-ranked programs, including ACC and Big Ten opponents. While he eventually transferred to Duquesne University in Pittsburgh after his sophomore year, his time at Air Force left a lasting impact.

“I grew so much there, as a player and as a man,” he said. “I met people who became family, and I’m really grateful for those two years.”

The transition to Duquesne has been seamless, offering Kato a new environment where he continues to thrive both academically and athletically. The change also reinforced something he learned along the way: adaptability.

“I learned that I can handle change well,” he said. “I can step into new environments and make the most of them.”

Beyond the field, Kato has found another passion through video work and college recruiting consulting. His interest began by creating an AFC Ann Arbor hype video before he ever made his debut with the club.

“I loved being able to make other people look cool,” he said. “Creating something with music, emotion, and storytelling really stuck with me.”

That spark has grown into a creative outlet and a way to give back. Today, Kato helps young players navigate the recruiting process by creating highlight videos, offering guidance, and sharing insights he wishes he had earlier in his career.

“It’s really fulfilling,” he said. “There are so many talented players who just need direction.”

Now, as he continues his soccer journey, representing AFC Ann Arbor remains deeply meaningful.

“I remember being a kid in the stands cheering and dreaming about playing here,” Kato said. “To actually live that out has been such a privilege. This club has a special place in my heart, and I’m just incredibly grateful for everything it’s poured into me.”

From childhood fan to AFC Ann Arbor player, Tyler Kato’s story reflects exactly what the club stands for: community, growth, and the lasting power of the beautiful game.