【Project Activities】

Through an open call across Asia and Oceania, the boys’ division welcomed three teams from two countries (Bangladesh and Malaysia) and two teams from Japan. The girls’ division welcomed two teams from two countries (Thailand and Bangladesh) and three teams from Japan. Junior high school students engaged in international exchange through 7-a-side rugby friendly matches.

【Project Background】

The “Asia Rugby Exchange Festa” was launched in 2018 as a legacy project of the Rugby World Cup 2019 held in Japan. Since 2022, it has evolved and expanded into the “Asia-Oceania Rugby Exchange Festa,” opening participation to the Oceania region. In fiscal year 2023, the project also began accepting women’s teams.

【Project Objective】

Promote rugby in the Asia–Oceania region and foster international exchange.

【Project Area】

Promotion of rugby and international exchange through rugby

【Methods】

Rugby exchange tournaments and exchange events

【Outcomes】

International exchange through rugby during junior high school contributed to participants’ mindset change (recognizing differences with other countries and fostering an attitude of mutual respect based on that understanding) and helped cultivate interest and awareness regarding international exchange.

【Voices from Participants and Partners】

“We could have international exchange without traveling abroad.” “The children were communicating through sport rather than words.” “It was really fun to exchange.” “A usually shy child was actively engaging.” “There was a clear change in the children before and after participating.”

【Challenges and Lessons Learned】

The cost of hosting the festa remains a challenge. We also gained new awareness of differences in perspectives among countries, while also feeling how difficult it can be to convey intentions accurately.

【URL】

Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU) Website　https://www.rugby-japan.jp/news/52161
◎Tournament Website https://www.rugby-fukuoka.jp/match/2023/r5asiaoceania/
◎Official Facebook　https://www.facebook.com/Asia.Oceania.Rugby.Exchange.Fest
◎Official Instagram　https://www.instagram.com/asiaoceaniarubgy/?hl=ja