Teacher: Mr Caskie
17/04/2019
We’ve arrived!
After two flights, everyone has arrived safely in Japan. The boys were treated like celebrities on arrival by the media! Now, the group are heading to the hotel to rest before a day of cultural visits tomorrow.
18/04/2019
Cultural Activities.
After a well-deserved rest, the boys were up bright and early for their first experience of a traditional Japanese breakfast.
There was not a piece of cutlery in sight, and instead it was chopsticks all round. Breakfast included soup, some salmon and rice. All the boys embraced it… to a certain degree!
After breakfast, the boys went to see the landmark tower, followed by a visit to Kumon National Academy where the boys enjoyed lunch with the pupils.
The afternoon was spent learning Japanese calligraphy, Swordsmanship Martial Art, English class and a training session.
After a lot of travelling, some of the boys were feeling a bit jet lagged, so an evening meal was enjoyed before heading to bed.
20/04/2019
Final Training.
It was another early start today as the boys were off to a final training session before the tournament gets underway tomorrow. Members of the Woman’s International Japanese Squad joined the boys in their session.
Once the training was complete, it was time for ‘Sea Paradise’. This took place in Yokohama where the boys enjoyed an afternoon at the aquarium and theme park.
We then boarded the coach and headed to Kanto Gakuin School.
The boys arrived at the school and met the students, and experienced a range of cultural activities and games.
After a busy day, it was back to the accommodation for an evening meal and some well-deserved rest for the boys in preparation for their tournament, which starts tomorrow.
21/04/2019
Tournament Day One.
Excitement levels were high at breakfast – game day had arrived!
The boys arrived at the Nissan Stadium, where the World Cup Final will be played later this year.
400 players from across the world were part of this rugby festival. Dignitaries from the Japanese Rugby union, the World Cup sponsors and a range of other special guests spoke to the players before the tournament got underway.
Game one for our boys was against Sagamihara Rugby School from Japan. The Dollar boys got off to a great start with a 35-5 win.
The next game was against Cigaska Rugby School, also from Japan. Our boys dominated the game and the final score was a 50-0 win.
The final game of the day was against “Japan 1”. Our boys achieved another comfortable win, scoring 50 points once again.
After each game, the teams exchanged gifts and the Captain said a few words about the opposition.
It was an amazing atmosphere and we were made to feel very welcome by the tournament hosts. During the lunch hour, all the players sang World in Union together on the main pitch.
With 3 wins out of 3, as well as lots of new friends and memories made, the boys headed home for a relaxing evening ahead of day two of the tournament.
22/04/2019
Tournament Day Two.
It was another hot and sunny day, and today’s opposition was Italy and New Zealand.
First up was the Petrarca Rugby Club from Italy and having seen this team play yesterday, our Dollar boys were prepared for the challenge ahead.
The Dollar defence and physicality at the breakdown ensured good quality ball for the backs to run in a series of tries. This resulted in a fantastic win: 20-5.
The next game was against Christchurch Football Club, home of the Canterbury crusaders and many legendary All Blacks.
Dollar produced yet another aggressive display, their tackling and passion put New Zealand on the back foot for much of the game. It was only in the final moments that the Dollar boys succumbed to one last New Zealand effort.
Although this game was lost, Dollar won many friends.
The closing ceremony was underway with various special guests speaking to the players. In the evening all the participants, coaches and supporters attended the festival party, where there was cultural dancing, food and presentations from each country. A great night was had by all.
23/04/2019
Final Day.
A trip to the Noodle Museum was first on the list before heading to the airport. Who knew that noodles have so much history?!
After enjoying some traditional noodle dishes, the boys said farewell to our extremely kind and caring tour guides, who have been with us during our stay here and were truly amazing.
All of the boys have been excellent ambassadors of the school. All parents should be very proud of their behaviour both on and off the field.
Mr Hose and Mr Caskie presented a few end of tour awards before embarking on our 20 hour journey home.
A special thanks to all of the dads who came over to Japan, they were very popular in their kilts!
Tour Awards
Player of the Tour: Angus Crockett
Best Ambassador: Callum Campbell
Best Tourist: Marc Thomson-Pueyo
Most Improved: John Hulme
