Go for Gold: Japan’s Men’s and Women’s Rugby Sevens Squads

The Japan Sevens celebrate after snatching victory away from powerhouse New Zealand during group play at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. (© Jiji)

Hikosaka Masakatsu puts his natural speed to use to advance the ball against England in group play at the Rio Olympics. (© Jiji)

A Fijian player steps around opponents on the way to the try line during the 2015 Tokyo Sevens. (© Ōtomo Nobuhiko)

Canada captain Ghislaine Landry carries the ball during the team’s championship run at the 2019 World Rugby Women’s Sevens Series in Kitakyūshū. (© Ōtomo Nobuhiko)

Fujita Yoshikazu (center) offers the Japan Sevens experience as well as attacking and defensive clout. (© Ōtomo Nobuhiko)

Matsui Chihito attempts to outrun two Singaporean opponents during an Olympic qualifying match in 2015. (© Jiji)

Hayashi Taisei shows off his explosive speed and deft footwork. (© Ōtomo Nobuhiko)

Representatives from the 12 teams pose ahead of the start of the Taiyō Seimei Women’s Sevens series. (© Ōtomo Nobuhiko)

Matsuda Rinka shows off her strength and running skills. (© Ōtomo Nobuhiko)

Ōtake Fumiko in action for Japan. (© Ōtomo Nobuhiko)