A Japanese Rugby Legend and Tōhoku’s Stadium of Hope

The 16,000-capacity Kamaishi Unosumai Memorial Stadium. At 17 meters, its World Cup-standard goal posts are the tallest in Japan.

In June 2012, the Kobelco Steelers rugby team from Kobe, Hyōgo Prefecture, hailing visited Kamaishi and worked as volunteers alongside local Kamaishi Seawave players to remove mud and timber.

Hirao Seiji (left), and Matsuo Yūji, who led Nippon Steel Kamaishi to seven straight championships. The two rugby legends came together to back Kamaishi’s bid to become a World Cup host city.

The Kamaishi Seawaves take on Yamaha Jubilo in the inaugural game played at Kamaishi Unosumai Memorial Stadium. (© Jiji)