SEA Rugby Odyssey 23/24 Part 1: Tokyo Gaijins’ Bali Tour

The rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore, the lush greenery of palm trees, and the exhilarating cheers of rugby fans – this was the backdrop for the Tokyo Gaijins’ unforgettable journey to Bali. The rugby tour, much more than a sporting event, was an expedition to a tropical paradise where passion for the game met the allure of exotic beauty.

As the sun kissed the Bali shores, the Gaijins descended upon the island with their hearts set on one thing – rugby glory. The tour was not just about scrums and lineouts; it was an opportunity to strengthen bonds, make memories, and embrace a new culture. As is customary in many rugby tours, the first night was reserved for a time-honored ritual where four tour virgins were bestowed with nicknames and underwent a memorable initiation. Amidst laughter and jest, these rookies were welcomed into the fold with a mix of excitement and trepidation.

The matches played in Bali were fierce and competitive, but they also showcased the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship that rugby is known for.

The Gaijins embarked on a whirlwind of rugby action during their two-day tournament in Bali. On Day 1, they opened with a spectacular 10-0 victory against the Jakarta Japanese, an exhilarating start to their campaign. However, they faced a tough challenge against the West Coast Pirate team, ultimately falling short with a score of 5-14. The eventual Cup winners eluded them in this match, but the Gaijins didn’t let that deter their spirits. They quickly bounced back to secure a 5-0 win against the Bali Chillis, ending Day 1 on a high note.

Day 2 brought even more action and determination. The Gaijins faced BOBs and clinched a hard-fought 12-7 victory, showing their tenacity and teamwork. In the Cup Semi-finals, they faced off against the formidable Southern Masters, who proved to be a formidable opponent, leading to a final score of 5-17. Although the Cup was no longer within reach, the Gaijins gave it their all and advanced to the Plate Final.

In the Plate Final, they contested the Jakarta Spartans, but the match ended with a score of 10-19 in favor of the Spartans. Despite the challenges and tough losses, Gaijins showcased their unwavering dedication, sportsmanship, and a spirit that defined their presence on the rugby field in Bali. Their journey was marked by both triumph and perseverance, leaving an indelible mark on the tournament.

Through the wins and losses, the Gaijins displayed unwavering determination. Under the blazing sun , they played with heart, earning respect and friendship from the opposition.

However, the closing act of this unforgettable journey was the infamous Kangaroo Court. In this raucous and entertaining event, all were subjected to a lighthearted trial, regardless of their experience. The proceedings involved humorous allegations, amusing defenses, and humorous verdicts, which often resulted in grueling punishments.

In the end, the Kangaroo Court saw its share of “casualties,” including three of the tour virgins who embraced the playful spirit of the event with good humor. However, even a seasoned veteran couldn’t escape the playful judgment of the court, leaving no room for exceptions.

The Kangaroo Court may have handed out its share of “shame,” but it was all in the name of fun, camaraderie, and a shared love for the sport. It marked the perfect conclusion to a tour that was a blend of unforgettable rugby moments and the enduring bonds of friendship.

As the final whistle blew and the tour came to an end, the scoreboard told only a fraction of the story. The victories were sweet, and the losses were lessons. But the true beauty of this tour lay in the connections formed, the friendships solidified, and the traditions upheld.

Big thank you to our sponsors, West Club United, SAS3 Trading and Nasnos for your continued support.

Go You Good Thing!!