22 April 2025
Building Rugby Futures: Japan Rugby Legend Toshiaki Hirose on Driving Sports Development in Kenya and Africa
Toshiaki Hirose, former captain of the Japan national rugby team, is a powerful voice in the global conversation on sports development and leadership. Known for his role in Japan’s legendary victory over South Africa at the 2015 Rugby World Cup, Hirose now channels his experience into grassroots impact through WaziWazi, a Japan-based organisation he co-founded.
WaziWazi partners with the DBA Rugby Academy in Nairobi to champion youth empowerment and rugby development in Africa, bridging cultures and building leaders through sport. We sat down with Toshiaki to discuss his perspective on team culture, Japan’s "Way", and why he sees enormous potential in Kenyan rugby as a force for growth and transformation across the continent
Q: Japan’s historic victory over South Africa at the 2015 Rugby World Cup is legendary. How did you feel in that moment?
It was undoubtedly one of the greatest moments in my rugby career.
We had believed in ourselves and worked incredibly hard, so it was deeply satisfying to see that effort pay off in such a tangible way. At the same time, after the match, the South African players were there waiting for us. When they said Congratulations, I was overwhelmed with joy, and with admiration.
Despite their loss, they showed such genuine respect for their opponents, and I felt a deep sense of graciousness and sportsmanship from them. That moment reminded me of the depth and richness of rugby, and I was moved in a completely different way than just the joy of winning.
Q: As captain, how did you cultivate team culture and motivate the players to perform at their best?
We constantly asked ourselves, “Why do we want to win?”
Eventually, we decided that we wanted to become a team that others would look up to and admire.
Then came the question, “How do we want to win?”
We named our unique playing style "JAPAN WAY" and pursued a brand of rugby that only we could play. We focused not only on results but also on the process of growing together step by step as a team.
I also placed importance on creating opportunities for our teammates to not only understand one another, but also to connect with the team and our country on a deeper level.
We practiced singing the national anthem together and even polished our boots—small actions that built a sense of pride and unity within the team.
Q: How do Japan’s training and player development approaches differ from those in Kenya? What lessons can Kenya take away?
One of the key differences is that Japanese players are encouraged to think for themselves, make mistakes, and learn through the process.
Also, there is a strong belief in the potential of each individual player. We place great value on the process, and we strive to foster a sense of originality and authenticity. I believe these are valuable lessons for Kenya as well.
Q: You’ve been involved in grassroots rugby initiatives in Kenya. What potential do you see in Kenyan rugby?
Kenyan players have extraordinary physical abilities, no doubt about that. There’s also a powerful energy and drive to break through individually. If that is combined with a bit more cooperation and trust in one another, and a growth-oriented mindset, then the potential is immense.
Q: What advice would you give to young Kenyan players aspiring to compete at the highest level?
Treat everything as a learning opportunity. Know who you are. Be proud of it. Keep growing. And most importantly, believe in yourselves.
The DBA WaziWazi Academy
The DBA WaziWazi rugby academy takes place every Sunday at Kenton College in Nairobi, Teaching Rugby with Life Skills inbeded in each training session. The structured coaching plan developed in partnership between DBA and WaziWazi, mixes both Kenyan and Japan Styles of coaching, play and learning.