The nationwide school athlete dispatch project, Asleach, sends athletes to schools across Japan to serve as physical education instructors. Visiting Yumenomori was Hitoshi Ono, a former player for Japan’s national rugby team! He is from Koriyama City in Fukushima Prefecture and started playing rugby when he entered university.

Rugby is a sport known for its tackles. One exciting aspect is that smaller players can take down larger ones. In the first half of the session, students listened to a talk about the importance of “building up step by step,” and in the second half, they got to experience rugby using an oval ball.

Hitoshi Ono shared his story:
“Rugby is a sport where everyone can find a position that suits them, whether they are tall or short, light or heavy. I played baseball until high school. When I became a university student, seniors from the rugby club enthusiastically invited me to join, so I went to watch a practice. Watching that practice, I thought I wanted to be part of this team, so I joined. I didn’t let the small number of players stop me; I faced rugby seriously. I learned the importance of mental strength in university rugby.”

“My parents run a farm, and I have been helping out since I was a child. Of course, there were times when I didn’t feel like doing it. From the time I became a junior high student, I delivered newspapers, continuing even on rainy and snowy days. During summer and winter breaks, I ran every morning. I also played baseball through high school. I have always tried to finish every meal in front of me. I hope all of you will value perseverance and carve your own path toward your future dreams and goals.”

In the 2015 match against South Africa, many said, “There’s no way Japan can win.” However, Ono and his team challenged themselves against the odds. They achieved victory thanks to four years of the world’s most rigorous training and practicing wholeheartedly with their teammates.

After a warm-up exercise passing the rugby ball to the person behind them, the students formed a circle for passing practice. When the number of balls was increased to two, the activity became more challenging, but it was very exciting and fun.

After that, the students were divided into three teams to experience a rugby match. They carried the ball to the wall while passing it to each other. The oval-shaped ball looked difficult to throw and catch, but everyone did their best and enjoyed the game.

~Impressions~

  • “It was my first time seeing a rugby player up close, and he was even a former member of the Japan national team! I was really surprised. During his talk, we watched a video of him playing against the world’s best team and winning, which was amazing. Learning how to play rugby made me realize how challenging the sport is.”
  • “It was my first time playing rugby, and there were some things I found difficult. Passing the ball with everyone and kicking it in a circle felt like a game and was really fun. Listening to Mr. Ono’s story helped me understand how hard it was to achieve victory.”
  • “I think it was a great lesson to have an athlete come and teach us in person. The part that left a strong impression on me was when he talked about finishing all the food on his plate.”
  • “Mr. Ono said he has always helped out at home and made sure to finish his meals. He taught us that the effort to keep going is important. I want to grow taller too, so I will try to make sure I finish my meals.”

After taking a group photo, everyone got to experience Mr. Ono’s incredible strength. He lifted the children effortlessly, and they were thrilled, shouting, “Me too! Me too!”

Before leaving, we received his autograph. We are very grateful for the valuable experience.