14/10/2025
That's a Wrap!
Joondalup Brothers U15 Japan Tour 2025 — What a Rugby Journey!
After two years of planning, fundraising, and anticipation, our Joondalup Brothers U15s have returned from an unforgettable 11-day rugby tour of Japan — a trip that will stay with the boys, coaches, and families forever.
From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the sacred slopes of Mt Fuji, and from the rugby heartland of Kumagaya to the coastal city lights of Yokohama, every moment of the tour was packed with learning, laughter, culture, and great rugby.
The Rugby
The boys proudly wore the Joondalup Brothers jersey across three tour matches:
Game 1 vs a combined U17 Ashidai High School and Fukaya School (Kumagaya)
Our first experience of rugby in Japan was excellent. From learning about and participating in Japanese rugby pre-game and post-game culture and traditions, to playing against fast and skillful players who play a very different style of rugby. Our boys thoroughly enjoyed out first outing on tour and a massive thank you to Robbie Deans, Head Coach of the Panasonic Wild Knights for taking time out of his busy schedule to come and talk to our boys and watch our warm up and game. Joondalup Brothers won the game convincingly, however our hosts and opposition just kept on playing and never gave up and showed us the spirit of Japanese rugby.
Game 2 vs U17 Colts Shibuya International Rugby Club RFC (Tokyo)
Our second tour game was a very close and tough encounter with the Shibuya Colts proving to be an excellent team with great skills, pace and a never-say-die attitude. Despite Joondalup Brothers taking an early lead, Shibuya just kept coming at us and by the end of the second half we were defending a slim 3 point lead and our tryline for the last few minutes of the game to take the win 24 – 21.
Game 3 vs U17 Nodai 1st High School (Tokyo)
Our final tour game was undoubtedly the most physical of all games against a big, strong and hard-hitting Noadai 1st High School. We found ourselves down a couple of tries early on as Nodia played with pace and skill. We fought our way back into the game with our forwards and backs combining well in attack and our defence reacting to a new opposition and foreign style of play. Nodai 1st High School again just kept going and managed to score again late in the game to set up a tense finish. However, our defence held strong in the final minutes to come away with a hard-fought 30 – 20 win.
Each match showcased the true Spirit of Rugby — respect, teamwork, and sportsmanship — and the hospitality from our Japanese hosts was nothing short of amazing. From heartfelt post-match ceremonies to jersey exchanges and shared team dinners, the connections made both on and off the field perfectly reflected what this sport is all about.
The Adventure
The team embraced Japanese culture with open minds and huge smiles.
Highlights included:
• Exploring Harajuku, Shibuya Crossing, and Meiji Jingu Shrine
• Enjoying Kichijoji and sampling Japanese cuisine in the local restaurants and markets.
• Experiencing Edo period Tokyo with a visit to Kawagoe “Little Edo”
• Catching a Japanese Professional Baseball game at Belluna Stadium
• Watching a university rugby game at the famous Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium
• Experiencing the magic of Tokyo DisneySea
• Taking the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) through the countryside
• Visiting Odawara Castle and surrounding town
• Standing in awe of Mt Fuji
• Relaxing in traditional onsen hot springs
• And finishing with a farewell dinner overlooking Yokohama’s glittering waterfront
Thanks & Acknowledgements
This incredible journey was only possible thanks to the tireless efforts of many:
• Head Coach: Alex Jack
• Coaches: Hanru du Plooy, Colin Campbell and Jason Kennan
• Manager: Bruce Bagshaw
• Team Liaison & Sponsorship: Ryan Davies
• Tour Coordination: Peter Gibson (Estilo Travel)
• Japanese Rugby Hosts: Koji Tokumasu and the teams from Ashidai High School, Fukaya High School, Shibuya International Rugby Club and Nodai 1st High School
And of course, our biggest thanks go to our sponsors, supporters, and families — your generosity, encouragement, and fundraising support turned this dream into reality.
The Boys
From the opening whistle in Kumagaya to the final team dinner in Yokohama, the boys represented the Joondalup Brothers Rugby Union Football Club, their families, and Western Australian rugby with pride. They’ve grown not just as players, but as young men — respectful, resilient, and united.
Brothers for Life
This tour wasn’t just about rugby. It was about friendships, culture, and unforgettable memories. The boys have shared experiences that will bond them for life — a true celebration of what it means to be part of the Brothers family.
🇯🇵 ありがとう (Arigatou), Japan!
You’ve given us memories we’ll cherish forever.
Joondalup Brothers U15 — 2025 Japan Tour
