Kaipara College rugby teams' Japan adventure "expands horizons"
Competing in Tokyo and Kyoto, two teams from Kaipara College immersed themselves in the local culture, making connections on and off the field. As well as playing rugby, the teams—a boys' and girls' team— visited temples, had a go at sumo wrestling and tried their hand at taiko drumming. This tour marked a milestone as Kaipara College's first international trip with a girls' rugby team, and for many players, it was their first time traveling outside New Zealand. Kaipara College Director of Sport, Israil Foreman, reflects on the team’s memorable journey.
Israil: "For them, Japan was a mysterious destination that promised new experiences both on and off the rugby field."
For the boys and girls rugby teams of Kaipara College, their rugby tour of Japan was more than just a series of matches; it is a life-changing experience that blended sport, culture, and adventure.
There was a mixture of excitement and nerves when the teams first heard they would be traveling to Japan. Many of the players had never travelled beyond New Zealand, and the thought of exploring a foreign land where English isn’t the first language added a sense of adventure. For them, Japan was a mysterious destination that promised new experiences both on and off the rugby field. This proved to be the case.
The rugby matches: learning on the field
The boys team won two close teams, winning by seven points against Keiza High School, Tokyo, and 12 points against Seisho High School, Kyoto
Rugby was, of course, at the heart of the trip.
The teams played two matches each against Japanese high school sides—Ryutsu Keiza High School, Tokyo; and Seisho High school, Kyoto—and it quickly became clear that Japanese rugby is developing fast.
While the sport does not hold the same position as it does in New Zealand culture, rugby is growing in popularity - Japan now boasts around 125,000 players with more than 3,600 clubs (New Zealand has about 500 clubs and 155,000 players). It's also gaining popularity as a spectator sport.
The Japanese teams, known for their discipline and speed, provided a different challenge from what Kaipara’s players were used to back home.
The first match was an eye-opener for the boys’ team, who found themselves up against a well-coordinated and relentless opposition.
With two narrow wins, the boys’ team learned valuable lessons about teamwork, adaptability, and the importance of keeping composure under pressure.
The trip was a great bonding experience for the players
The girls' team also found their two games challenging.
Captain Tyla Baker remarked, “The Japanese teams had incredible fitness, skill, and determination. They didn’t give up, no matter what the score was, and that really challenged us.”
By the end of the tour, the Kaipara teams had formed bonds with their Japanese counterparts, sharing not only fierce competition but also post-match exchanges, where they laughed and swapped clothing and gifts, overcoming language barriers. Rugby, as it turned out, is a universal language.
Exploring the beauty of Japan: Kyoto’s treasures and the bullet train
Off the field, the cultural immersion was equally unforgettable. One of the highlights was a visit to Kyoto’s breathtaking Bamboo Forest. As they walked through the towering bamboo groves, the players were in awe of the serene atmosphere and lush surroundings. This peaceful moment allowed them to appreciate the beauty and stillness of Japan’s natural landscapes.
The teams visted a number of historic cultural sites, including the Golden Pavilion (金閣, Kinkaku) in Kyoto
Next, they visited the Golden Pavilion, or Kinkaku-ji, where the sight of the temple’s golden reflection shimmering in the water left a lasting impression. For many, it was a powerful reminder of Japan’s dedication to preserving its historical and cultural treasures, offering the players a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage.
The journey to Kyoto itself was an adventure, travelling on the famous Japanese bullet train, or Shinkansen. Traveling at high speed, the teams were amazed at the efficiency and modernity of Japan’s transportation system, adding to their ever-growing list of remarkable experiences.
Traditional drumming: the power of taiko
Israil: "The Taiko experience gave the players a respect for the discipline and artistry behind Japanese traditions."
After a particularly tough rugby match, the teams were invited to a traditional Taiko drumming class. The deep, resonant beats of the Taiko drums filled the air as the players tried to match the rhythm.
While it might seem like a far cry from rugby, the drumming session demanded the same coordination, focus, and teamwork that they needed on the field.
“It was harder than I thought,” said player Orrin Heke.
“It wasn’t just about hitting the drum. It was about hitting it in perfect unison with everyone else. Kind of like the way we need to work together in a game.”
The Taiko experience gave the players a respect for the discipline and artistry behind Japanese traditions.
Sumo wrestling: strength and honor
Visiting a sumo stable was a highlight of the trip
Another unforgettable experience came when the teams visited a sumo wrestling training stable.
Watching the enormous wrestlers engage in their ancient sport, the players were struck by the raw power and precision involved.
Despite their size, the sumo wrestlers moved with grace and speed, and their strict training regimens were a testament to the discipline required in Japanese sports culture.
The players even had the chance to try their hand at sumo. Amid laughter and friendly competition, a few brave boys and girls stepped into the ring. “I thought I was strong,” joked player Keegan, “but those sumo wrestlers made me feel like a twig.”
“I thought I was strong, but those sumo wrestlers made me feel like a twig.”
Keegan
The sumo wrestling experience left a lasting impression on the team. It was a reminder that strength comes in many forms, and that respect for one’s opponents is at the core of every sport, whether it’s rugby or sumo.
A journey beyond rugby
As the Kaipara College boys' and girls' rugby teams boarded the plane home, they carried more than just memories of rugby victories. They brought back with them a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, new friendships, and personal growth that went beyond the rugby field.
Israil: "This tour wasn’t just about sport; it was about expanding horizons..."
This tour wasn’t just about sport; it was about expanding horizons, learning to respect different ways of life, and coming together as a team in ways they hadn’t imagined.
Each player returned to New Zealand with a broader perspective and a renewed sense of purpose, ready to tackle whatever challenges lay ahead—both on and off the rugby field.
For these young athletes, the Japan rugby tour had become a defining moment, creating everlasting memories and offering a life-changing experience. A heartfelt thank you goes to the parents, whose support and encouragement created this unforgettable opportunity.
The Foundation's Sports Programme provides New Zealand sportspeople opportunities to grow more knowledgeable, connected and confident with Asia.
The Student Sports Fund provides grants for secondary and tertiary students travelling to Asia for sports to include cultural activities to their itineraries.
