Nihon University Quarterback Hayashi Taiki Reflects on the “Dirty Tackle” Scandal and His College Career

Nihon University American football coach Hishizume Isao. Having rebuilt the scandal-struck program, he will be stepping down in August 2021. (© Fuchi Takayuki)

The Nihon University Phoenix football team celebrates its victory in the Kōshien Bowl on December 17, 2017, ending a 27-year drought. Hayashi, number 10, sits in the front row. (© Jiji)

Hayashi Taiki says that without the melee over the tackle, he might have gone on to play for a corporate team, but that he does not lament his fate. (© Fuchi Takayuki)