Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Ritsumeikan Keisho Claims First Hanazono Win as National High School Rugby Advances to Second Round

Seeded powers, including three-time defending champion Toin Gakuen, enter on December 30.

Overview

  • The 105th National High School Rugby Tournament opened on December 27 at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Higashiosaka, Osaka.
  • Day two produced 14 first-round winners, with Akita Technical, Japan Aviation Ishikawa, Seiko Gakuin, and Takanabe among those advancing.
  • Ritsumeikan Keisho defeated Sendai Ikuei 20–7 to secure its first-ever victory at Hanazono and will face Nagasaki Hokuyodai in the next round.
  • North Hokkaido representative Engaru, making a third consecutive nationals appearance, lost 5–74 to Onomichi on opening day and was eliminated.
  • Second-round play is set for December 30 when seeded teams join the bracket and Toin Gakuen begins its title defense.