In 2003, the JRFU launched Japan Rugby Top League in order to achieve their new vision. This positively brought an end to the Japan Company Rugby Football Championship that had continued 50 years supported by Asahi Shimbun. I really would like to express my gratitude to all the related parties and companies that offered heartfelt support.
Japan Rugby Top League started in order to achieve the JRFU's vision with the following four objectives:
1. Strengthen the top-notch players in Japanese rugby
2. Contribute to increasing in the level of Japanese rugby
3. Drive the growth of the rugby fan base
4. Contribute to the promoting of company sports and achieve sports promotions based on regional collaboration
　
Suntory Sungoliath met the Kobe Steel Kobelco Steelers at Tokyo's National Stadium on September 13 as the opening game, attracting 35,000 spectators, refereed by Shinsuke Shimoi. Suntory Sungoliath's Hirotoki Onozawa scored the first try in a match held as part of the Top League.
In 2007 which marks the fifth year of the Top League, Junichi Inagaki was appointed as COO for the Top League. Suntory Sungoliath claimed the title of Microsoft Cup and the Panasonic Wild Knights claimed the title of the Japan Rugby Championship, fascinating many Japanese rugby fans.
“The catchphrase for the 2007-2008 season is ‘FOR ALL'. Through all the Top League games during this season, with this catchphrase, we will convey not only exciting games and the heated competition to the championship, but also sportsmanship that has been demonstrated by ruggers as a matter of course in all eras.
Say ‘thank you',
Find ‘companions',
Be a ‘role model',
Play ‘fair',
‘Cheer' for players, and
‘Shake hands' with all your might.”
(Source: “JAPAN RUGBY TOP LEAGUE 2007-2008 OFFICIAL FAN BOOK”)