Sawada was born in Kamakura on May 15, 1970. After graduating from Chuo University, he joined Japan Football League club Kashiwa Reysol in 1993. He played as right-midfielder and right side-back. The club won the 2nd place in 1994 and was promoted to J1 League. He moved to Sanfrecce Hiroshima in 1999. He retired end of 2003 season.