Wednesday 18th March saw the return of the biggest House event of the academic year – RSJ Sports Day – and for the first time, it took place at the impressive Kashiwanoha Park Athletic Field.
With pupils from Years 7 to 13 now involved, this year also marked the introduction of a new competition structure – Junior (Years 7 & 8), Intermediate (Years 9 & 10), and Senior (Years 11 to 13) categories – reflecting the continued growth and development of the school.
The day began with a walk to the stadium, with each House making their way through Kashiwanoha Park. The energy was clear from the start – we could hear the Houses before we could see them, as chants echoed through the park. By the time they entered the stadium, the atmosphere was already building.
Once inside, the stadium was transformed into a sea of colour, with pupils proudly wearing their new House tops. From the moment they arrived, there was a real sense that this year’s event was something special.
The atmosphere was electric from the outset. The House parade set the tone, as each House made its way around the track – a vibrant display of pride, unity, and identity. With a strong turnout from parents, particularly impressive for a midweek event, the day had a genuine community feel that elevated it beyond just a school competition. Ameliya Pak (Year 8, Rupert Brooke) led the school in the school song As We Stand, conducted by Mr Sach-Keen – a brilliant moment that brought everyone together.
The format followed the proud tradition of a British-style athletics meet, with pupils competing across a full programme of track and field events to earn points for their Houses. Scores from the Junior, Intermediate, and Senior categories combined to determine the overall results. Throughout the day, the stands were alive with chants, banners, and constant encouragement, as pupils pushed themselves to deliver for their teams.
As ever, the level of competition was high. Races were fiercely contested, field events saw impressive performances, and the determination on display was clear in every event. However, what stood out most was the spirit in which the day was competed – pupils supporting one another, celebrating success, and showing resilience in defeat.
The final stages of the day brought the energy to another level. The relays once again proved to be a highlight, with the crowd fully engaged and every point carrying significance. But it was the Tug of War at the end of the day that truly captured the spirit of the event – staff, pupils, and even parents coming together in a moment of pure enjoyment, competition, and community. It was a fitting way to bring the day to a close and a reminder of what makes events like this so special.
As the final results were announced, anticipation gave way to celebration:
🏆 Boys’ House Champions = School House
🥈 Sheriff
🥉 Town
🏆 Girls’ House Champions = Tudor House
🥈 Southfield
🥉 Rupert Brooke
Whilst we congratulate our winning Houses, it is important to recognise that the success of the day went far beyond the results. The effort, attitude, and togetherness shown by all pupils, combined with the support of staff and parents, made this a truly memorable occasion.
With each year, Sports Day at Rugby School Japan continues to grow – not just in scale, but in significance. What we are building is more than an event; it is a tradition, and one that reflects the values and community of the school.
Until next year…
Jordan Nwachukwu
Director of Sport
Head of Physical Education & Sports Science
