Why is Japan So Good at Rugby?

The reason why Japan’s national rugby team got stronger

Japan’s performance in rugby has seen significant improvement in recent years, catching the world’s attention, particularly during the 2019 Rugby World Cup where the Japanese team reached the quarter-finals for the very first time. So, what makes Japan’s rugby so compelling?

Here are the key reasons:

Eddie Jones’s Expertise

Eddie Jones, who took over as Japan’s national coach in 2012, is credited with transforming the team. With a reputation for world-class leadership and tactical insight, Jones addressed Japan’s weak points, focusing on fitness and passwork. More than that, he instilled a sense of aggression and a challenging spirit in the players, changing Japan’s game approach. Even though Jones left the position in December 2022, his impact on Japanese rugby remains undeniable.

Eddie Jones was eventually dismissed.

Eddie Jones was relieved of his duties in December 2022. However, his tenure brought significant improvements and results to the Japanese national team.

Jones meticulously addressed the weaknesses of the Japanese team, guiding them to perform at a global top-level. His coaching allowed the Japanese team to develop tactics and techniques that would enable them to win against opponents with superior physicality and power.

While Jones’ dismissal was a significant blow to the Japanese rugby community, his influence and teachings will continue to play a vital role in the future development and strengthening of the Japanese national team.

Top League’s Enhancement

Introduced in 2003, the Top League is Japan’s premier rugby league. The inclusion of international players and an increase in professional contracts have accelerated its growth. Many players from the Top League are now core members of the Japanese national team. The enhanced competition in the Top League has equipped Japanese players with more opportunities to play against world-class players, enriching their experience.

Widespread Popularity

The 2019 Rugby World Cup, hosted by Japan, was a turning point. Not only did the Japanese team’s victory over South Africa become a major talking point, but it also drew an increased domestic attention to the sport. The consequent surge in the sport’s popularity has in turn fueled the growth of the national team.

The Power of Money

Financial muscle plays an undeniably significant role in the growth of any sport, and rugby in Japan is no exception. The following aspects elucidate the monetary influence in greater detail:

• Hiring Eddie Jones: A world-class coach at the time, Jones commanded a significant salary and contractual compensation. Apart from his remuneration, the costs also included hiring English coaches, trainers, and other essential staff.
• Enhancing the Top League: Boosting the league’s standard involved substantial costs, from signing international players to increasing the number of professional contracts. Investment also went into the infrastructure, like training facilities.
• Hosting the Rugby World Cup: Organizing a world-class event like the Rugby World Cup requires considerable funding. However, the returns, both in terms of direct revenues and the intangible benefits of increased popularity and consequent player base expansion, were enormous.

In conclusion, Japan’s recent rise in rugby can be attributed to a blend of strategic leadership, league enhancements, increased popularity, and financial investments. With these factors in play, Japan’s rugby scene is set for even greater success in the years to come.