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On November 26, Kensuke Hatakeyama (class of 2008) and Yoshikazu Fujita (fourth year student) from the Japan national rugby union team met with University President Kamata to celebrate their miraculous performance at the 2015 Rugby World Cup where they shocked the world after defeating the mighty South Africa team.

Two weeks later, star player Ayumu Goromaru (class of 2008) participated in a dialogue with students at Waseda Campus. Approximately 1,200 students and guests gathered at the historic Okuma Auditorium to hear from the athlete that has taken Japan by storm.

Coach Goto of the Waseda Rugby Team

“I am extremely pleased to see former and current players from the Waseda Rugby Team compete at the international level. Women’s rugby has received considerable attention recently, demonstrating that there is a wide range of people interested in the sport. I hope the world of rugby will continue to prosper.”

Kensuke Hatakeyama (class of 2008)

“I knew the match against South Africa would be a tough one. However, the energy at the stadium gave us the courage we needed. Japan will host the World Cup four years from now and I hope it will promote a spectator’s culture for rugby and sports. For this reason, I make it a point to give it my all every day.”

Yoshikazu Fujita (fourth year student)

“I played for the Japan sevens team but enjoy the more complex matches between teams of fifteen players. I hope our fans will continue to increase. This year’s Waseda Rugby Team has a sense of independence. In addition to the national team, I also want to do my best as a member of the Waseda Rugby Team.”

Yoshikazu Fujita will compete in rugby sevens at the Rio Olympics as part of Japan’s national team.

University President Kamata

“Congratulations on your achievements as members of Japan’s national rugby team. Please continue to do your best for the world of rugby. I hope Waseda’s Rugby Team will find inspiration when looking up to you and your accomplishments. I strongly believe that Japanese Rugby will prosper when Waseda’s Rugby Team is strong.”

University Vice President Yoichi Shimada also offered his congratulations to the two athletes.

Ayumu Goromaru (class of 2008)

On December 7, star player Ayumu Goromaru participated in a dialogue with students at Waseda Campus. Approximately 1,200 students and guests gathered at the historic Okuma Auditorium to hear from the star athlete.

Goromaru became a member of Japan’s national team while a student at Waseda and competed as a top class athlete since. During his dialogue with students, one student asked Goromaru, “Please tell us about what you learned and felt while competing internationally.” Goromaru replied, “It is good to look up to athletes overseas, but with the right training, even Japanese athletes can surpass overseas athletes in many regards. It is very important to keep your mind flexible.”

When asked about why he chose to study at Waseda, Goromaru answered, “I had been a fan of the rugby matches between Waseda and Keio University and Waseda and Meiji University but never thought that I would be able to attend Waseda. After graduating, I came to realize the rich history of this University and noticed that there were Waseda alumni everywhere I went. I am extremely grateful for Waseda’s support.”

“I will be competing in Australia next year but will continue to give 100% no matter my environment. I used to think in the long term but now I choose to focus on the present. I do not have any “rest” days. I believe the ability to commit one’s self in a given environment directly correlates with success.”