#Japan #Tokyo #Japan Nexus Intelligence #New Zealand Scholarship #Waseda Rugby Team

Japan Nexus Intelligence's Scholarship Initiative for Rugby Players

In a remarkable effort to bolster the future of rugby in Japan, Japan Nexus Intelligence (JNI) has launched a scholarship program aimed at supporting current players from the Waseda University Rugby Football Club. This initiative, known as the New Zealand Canterbury Academy Scholarship Program, was officially announced on March 21 and is designed to provide talented athletes with an opportunity to study and train in New Zealand, the home of rugby excellence.

Purpose of the Program

The scholarship aims to enhance the skills of Waseda players by exposing them to the high-level rugby environment that New Zealand offers. Additionally, it seeks to develop their capabilities as future global citizens by cultivating adaptability and cultural understanding through international experiences. The long-term objective is to promote the traditions and values of the Waseda University Rugby Club on an international stage.

Background of the Program

Founded in 1918, the Waseda University Rugby Football Club has a storied history in Japan, boasting a record 16 championships in the All-Japan University Rugby Tournament. Known for its fierce rivalries in the Wasei War against Keio University and the Wamei War against Meiji University, Waseda has maintained its status as a powerhouse in Japanese university rugby. The program's inception is rooted in the personal experiences of JNI's CEO, Masakazu Takamori, who undertook a pioneering long-term study abroad in New Zealand during his time as a student-athlete.

During his stay in New Zealand, Takamori gained invaluable experiences that transcended sports, influencing both his career and personal growth. This desire to share similar opportunities with the next generation of rugby players has driven his efforts to establish this scholarship, following extensive dialogue with stakeholders within the Waseda University Rugby Football Club.

Program Details

• - Name: New Zealand Canterbury Academy Scholarship Program
• - Type: Non-repayable scholarship
• - Duration: 3 months
• - Eligible Candidates: Waseda University Rugby Football Club members in their second to fourth year
• - Number of Recipients: 2

Objectives

1. To improve competitive performance within New Zealand's high-level rugby settings.
2. To foster qualities necessary for thriving in an international community through an overseas living experience.
3. To promote the Waseda Rugby Club’s values and traditions abroad.

Program Inclusions

• - Participation in localized training and game experiences through the Canterbury Rugby Football Union (CRFU)'s Canterbury Academy.
• - Coverage for travel costs, academy program fees, and homestay expenses.

Voices from the Club

The head coach of the Waseda University Rugby Club, Takahiro Otao, expressed his gratitude towards Japan Nexus Intelligence, stating, "I wish to thank JNI for providing this tremendous opportunity through the New Zealand Canterbury Academy Scholarship Program. I hope our students gain not just sporting skills from this unique experience, but also personal growth from engaging with diverse perspectives in a new cultural environment."

The first recipients of the scholarship, Toshirou Sugimura, a second-year student from the School of Social Sciences, and Hitoshi Hirano, from the School of Sports Sciences, shared their excitement about their journey ahead. Sugimura remarked, "It’s a great honor to represent Waseda University in New Zealand. I aim to confront challenges earnestly and leverage this experience for my growth, as well as contribute to the team later on." Hirano added, "I feel privileged to take on this challenge from Waseda. I will continuously strive to enhance my skills while being mindful of the responsibilities that come with representing the university."

Through this initiative, JNI aims to strengthen collaborative efforts within the rugby community and continues to dedicate itself to the growth of future Waseda graduates who will contribute to advancing Japanese rugby internationally.