A day for rugby... and a laugh!

Today, and November 11th annually, is "Laugh One for All Day". The anniversary was created by the seven-a-side women's rugby team Nanairo Prism Fukuoka. The purpose is to let more people know the charm of rugby and spread the culture of giving oval-shaped objects like rugby balls to loved ones.

The unofficial slogan of the Japanese rugby teams is "One for all, All for one". Thus Nanairo Prism Fukuoka chose the date of November 11 as "Laugh One for All Day". November 11 is when the spirit of rugby "One for All, All for One" is multiplied as "One(1) four(4) All", all four 1s are lined up. In addition, it is unique that they have collaborated with "Yoshimoto Fukuoka" to hold a new comedy and they added "smile" to the name of the anniversary because they want to make it a day for everyone to laugh and be happy.

Quite an ambitious anniversary comprising different parts, but our 'brave blossoms', the affectionate name for Japanese rugby players, are always one for a challenge! The men's team just played my country, Ireland, at the weekend. The Japan's men team did relatively well in the first half, but ultimately lost the match. Do you follow rugby? My family and I do, and we occasionally go to matches. The feature photo was taken at a rugby match at the stadium in Kumagaya last year.