A sumo wrestler’s stablemaster is called an oyakata. Oyakata are former wrestlers who hold elder positions in the Japan Sumo Association and oversee a heya, or training stable.
Their responsibilities include coaching wrestlers, managing the stable’s finances and living arrangements, recruiting new athletes, and representing the organization at official events. An oyakata may also serve in broader administrative roles within the association.
The word does not mean simply “retired wrestler.” Most wrestlers retire without becoming oyakata, because elder positions are limited and require eligibility under association rules. Gyoji are referees, while shimpan are ringside judges; neither term refers to a stablemaster.