Matsumoto Yamaga FC
In 2009, Kato became a general manager for Regional Leagues club Matsumoto Yamaga FC. The club was promoted to Japan Football League end of 2009 season. In June 2011, manager Hideo Yoshizawa was sacked and Kato became new manager as Yoshizawa successor. The club finished the 4th place in 2011 and won the Qualify to promoted to J2 League. However Kato did not have license for J.League manager, he resigned as manager and returned to general manager.