History

The special relationship between Wahroonga Rugby Club and Sanda Rugby stemmed from the vision of Dr. Shigeki Taba (1942-2010). Following a visit to Sanda’s sister city, the Blue Mountains in 1996, Dr. Taba – a passionate rugby man – pursued a dream to establish a rugby relationship with an Australian club. Reciprocal tours and international competition would become a firm basis for understanding, friendship and preparation for later life.

Sanda Rugby contacted the Blue Mountains City Council, who referred them to David Campese. David Campese was then patron of Wahroonga Rugby and organised contact between the clubs. Following this contact and with much hard work by both clubs, Dr. Taba’s vision became a reality with the first tour from Wahroonga to Sanda taking place in 1997.

Each year our clubs take turns visiting each other. The 8-10 day tour is a combination of rugby games, sightseeing and various formal and informal functions. It provides a wonderful opportunity for touring players to gain valuable rugby experience. Both players and adult tourers are billeted with local families, and are therefore immersed in different culture, customs and way of life for the duration of their visit.

Sadly, Dr. Taba passed away in 2010.