JRFU From 20 to 22 February, the “JENESYS Japan-ASEAN Sports (Rugby) x SDGs Exchange“, an exchange program by the Japanese government to promote understanding between Japan and ASEAN took place.
The Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Men’s Rugby Club and Kyushu Sangyo University Women’s Rugby Club took the lead in coaching and facilitation during this three-day program as support members.
They played an active role in many aspects of the program, from venue preparation to event facilitation and team building. Thank you for the big support!
■Participants’ Voice
Himena（Japan）（2nd from right in flont row）
I play rugby for my university’s rugby team.
“Leaning from the JENESYS Japan-ASEAN Sports (Rugby) x SDGs Exchange Program”
This was the first time for me to participate in such a program and I felt the difficulty of communication due to the difference in language. But everyone talked to me a lot and it gave me the confidence to communicate more with them.
Through this activity, I learned that we can communicate not only through words but also through smiles and gestures, and I would like to make use of this learning in the future.
I also felt again that tag rugby is a sport that can be enjoyed despite difference of gender or physique.
I would like to participate again if there is an activity like this.
Hiroto（Japan）
I play rugby for my university’s rugby team.
“Leaning from the JENESYS Japan-ASEAN Sports (Rugby) x SDGs Exchange Program”
Tag Rugby is played in schools when I was in Australia, and although it had been a while since I had played, I really enjoyed it this time.
In this activity, it was refreshing and interesting to see that the attitude toward tag Rugby varied from positive to reserved, depending on the country.
Tag rugby is a good tool to enjoy for everyone and also could be the pathway to participation in contact Rugby as well.
I am interested in using rugby for international exchange activities and doing something for children. I would like to continue to be involved in these programs.
The Japan Rugby Union is cooperating with universities to conduct international exchange and social contribution activities through Rugby.