Both trans and gay students are traditionally bullied into submission, with little support from their teachers.
But theres one part of Satohs life that has always fascinated gamers.
I didnt have a nickname in particular, but people told me that I need one when I play.
I thought about that a lot and then I was invited to a cosplay party.
I was disguise[d] as a police officer, and they called me Kayo Police!
When Satoh was growing up in the 90s, fighting games were already on the rise.
However, she largely wasnt interested in the genre as a kid.
After all, it makes sense that an event like EVO would appeal to her.
What better way to celebrate the FGC than at an international competitive championship?
My goal is to beat strong players, one day Ill be able to do it.
Five years later, she clearly has done just that.
Ian Walkeris a freelance writer and FGC journalist.
He currently writes about the competitive fighting community for Red Bull eSports and the official Pokemon website.
Im pretty sure I first found out about Kayo Police onKotaku, he wrote.
Of course, its not simply Satohs dedication toStreet Fighterthat makes her a standout competitor at fighting game tournaments.
Its also her backstory.
People like to see someone who doesnt fit the cliched idea of a competitive gamer succeed, Walker explained.
I think everyone would love to see her attend tournaments in the United States again.
That said, Satoh isnt the only trans woman in the FGC.
Today, she is one of the most beloved fighters in the entire fighting game community.
Viewers regularly misgendered her, spat transphobic insults at her, and made extremely crude jokes about her.
Even today, jokes about Ortizs gender identity linger on.
I feel the brunt of it now, presenting as female.
My skill takes a backseat, she explained to Martin.
People question my gender identity versus me playing the game.
But Ortiz and Satoh persevered.
I dont waste my time on negativity, she said.
As a person going through what Im going through, you have to be unapologetic about your authenticity.
It certainly doesnt take much research to figure out why so many people love and support her, either.
Theres something charming about Kayo Satoh.
Its not simply her passion for fighting games or her excellent cosplay outfits.
Its her friendliness on stage, her cheery attitude on streams, and her good manners in competition.
In other words, shes not just a good player.
Shes a good sport, and a good example for the eSports community.
However, he was hopeful that the FGC will give more support to trans women over time.
Unfortunately, actual inclusivity is still a bit of a problem, he said.
Ana Valens is a freelance contributor.