On March 30, 2025, rugby star Michael Leitch made a triumphant return to his second hometown of Sapporo, where he showcased his skills in a thrilling League One match at the Daiwa House Premist Dome. Leitch, who plays for Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo, helped lead his team to an impressive 59-21 victory over Mie Honda Heat, solidifying their position at the top of the league.
Leitch's performance was not just about the numbers; it was deeply personal. After the match, he reflected on his formative years spent in Sapporo, where he honed his rugby skills at Sapporo Yamanote High School under the guidance of coach Mikio Sato. "Those three years had a huge impact on my rugby life," Leitch reminisced, highlighting the significance of his early training.
The match began with Toshiba facing an early challenge, allowing Mie Honda to score first. However, the team quickly turned the tide, demonstrating resilience and skill. By halftime, Toshiba had established a 17-7 lead, thanks to three tries. The second half saw Toshiba explode offensively, scoring six tries and racking up 42 points, ultimately winning by a staggering 38-point margin.
This victory marked Toshiba's 11th win of the season, with one draw and one loss, guaranteeing them a spot in the playoffs. The playoffs have expanded this season from four to six teams, which adds an exciting twist to the competition. The top two teams will bypass the quarter-finals, heading straight to the semi-finals, while the third to sixth-ranked teams will compete for a place in the final rounds.
As he stood on the field after the game, Leitch was surrounded by familiar faces from his past, including many of his former high school teammates and coaches. "I wanted to show the results of the tackling techniques that I learned from Coach Sato," he said, expressing his desire to give back to the community that nurtured his talent.
Interestingly, Leitch recalled the first time he watched a rugby match in Japan, which also took place in Sapporo. At just 15 years old, he was captivated by the sight of Toshiba's jersey and now, at 30, he proudly wears the same colors on the field. "It feels like a strong connection," he remarked, underscoring the emotional ties he has to the city.
Adding to the sentiment, Leitch shared that his nephew is set to follow in his footsteps by studying at Sapporo Yamanote High School. "I hope he can grow just like I did," Leitch encouraged, showcasing his hopes for the next generation of rugby players.
Before the match, Leitch had planned to indulge in Sapporo's famous soup curry, a local delicacy. However, in a humorous twist, he admitted, "I wanted to eat soup curry, but I forgot my wallet on the bus!" His light-hearted remark drew laughter from the crowd, further endearing him to the fans.
The playoffs are set to kick off soon, with the quarter-finals scheduled for May 17 and 18 at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Osaka. The semi-finals will follow on May 24 and 25 at Prince Chichibu Memorial Rugby Ground in Tokyo, culminating in the championship final on June 1 at the National Stadium in Tokyo. With Toshiba's current form, they are well-positioned to make a deep run in the playoffs, and Leitch's leadership will be crucial as they chase another title.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo as they look to maintain their momentum and secure their place in rugby history. With Leitch at the helm, the team is not just playing for a trophy; they are also playing for the legacy of the sport in Sapporo and the future of young athletes inspired by their journey.
