Wheelchair Rugby Japan wins its first championship! Also secures Rio qualification! (Video available)

The wheelchair rugby tournament "Mitsubishi Corporation 2015 IWRF Asia-Oceania Championship" (Hosted by: International Wheelchair Rugby Federation, Japan Wheelchair Rugby Federation; Special Sponsor: Mitsubishi Corporation) was held at Chiba Port Arena in Chiba City from October 29th to November 1st. Four countries participated: powerhouse Australia, along with Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea.

Serving as a qualifier for the 2016 Rio Paralympics, the top-ranked nation (excluding Australia, which had already secured its spot as the 2014 World Champion) would earn a ticket to Rio.

Japan finished second in its qualifying pool with a record of 5 wins and 1 loss, including a victory over Australia.

At this point, Australia was confirmed as Japan's opponent in the final, securing Japan's spot in Rio. This marks Japan's fourth consecutive Paralympic Games appearance.

The final match on the 1st featured a back-and-forth battle from the start, but Japan gradually pulled ahead, spurred on by the roaring support of the crowd. In the final fourth period, Australia launched a fierce counterattack, filling the arena with the sound of wheelchairs colliding violently. Amidst a series of falls and tire changes, Japan secured the close victory 56-51, thanks to the strong performances of players like Ike and Ikesaki and their solid defense.

At this tournament, Japan achieved a winning record against Australia with three wins and one loss, rising to third place in the world rankings. Expectations are high for a medal at the Rio Paralympics. New Zealand placed third, and South Korea fourth. On the day, CS broadcast "TBS Channel 2" aired live coverage of the third-place match and the final. Additionally, the tournament was featured in news segments on various terrestrial broadcasters, increasing attention on disabled sports.

Wheelchair Rugby Japan National Team Official Website:
http://www.wrtj.jp/