Introduction
In Japan, soccer is one of the most popular sports, and college soccer is no exception. The Kanto region, which includes Tokyo and its surrounding areas, has a thriving university soccer scene. Known as 関東 大学サッカー (Kanto Daigaku Sakkaa), this league is one of the most competitive and exciting in the country. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Kanto Daigaku Sakkaa, from its history and format to its top teams and players.
History
Kanto Daigaku Sakkaa was founded in 1925, making it one of the oldest university soccer leagues in Japan. The league started with just six teams but has since grown to over 50 teams from universities across the Kanto region. Throughout its history, Kanto Daigaku Sakkaa has produced numerous talented players who have gone on to play for professional teams in Japan and abroad.
Format
The Kanto Daigaku Sakkaa season is split into two main parts: the regular season and the championship tournament. During the regular season, teams play in a round-robin format, with each team playing against every other team in their division once. The top teams from each division advance to the championship tournament, where they compete in a single-elimination bracket to determine the league champion.
Top Teams
There are many strong teams in Kanto Daigaku Sakkaa, but some stand out above the rest. One of the most successful teams in the league’s history is Waseda University, which has won the championship tournament 13 times. Other top teams include Keio University, Tokyo University, and Hosei University. These teams consistently perform well in both the regular season and the championship tournament.
Top Players
Kanto Daigaku Sakkaa has produced many talented players over the years, but some have stood out above the rest. One of the most famous players to come out of the league is Yasuhito Endo, who played for Gamba Osaka and the Japanese national team. Other notable players include Shunsuke Nakamura, who played for Celtic and the Japanese national team, and Takashi Inui, who currently plays for Real Betis in Spain.
Championship Tournament
The championship tournament is the culmination of the Kanto Daigaku Sakkaa season and is the most exciting part of the year for fans. The tournament features the top teams from each division competing in a single-elimination bracket. The winner of the championship tournament is crowned the league champion and advances to the national championship tournament, where they compete against the top teams from other regions in Japan.
Traditions
Kanto Daigaku Sakkaa has many traditions that make it a unique and exciting league. One of the most famous traditions is the “Waseda-Hosei Derby,” which is the annual match between Waseda University and Hosei University. This match is one of the most intense and passionate in the league and is always hotly contested. Other traditions include the “Tokyo Derby,” which is the match between Tokyo University and Keio University, and the “Shutoku Derby,” which is the match between Shuto University and Tokai University.
Future of Kanto Daigaku Sakkaa
Kanto Daigaku Sakkaa has a bright future ahead of it, with many talented players and passionate fans. The league has continued to grow and evolve over the years, and there are always new teams and players emerging to challenge the established powerhouses. With the Tokyo Olympics coming up in 2021, there is sure to be even more interest in university soccer in the Kanto region and beyond.
Overall, Kanto Daigaku Sakkaa is one of the most exciting and competitive university soccer leagues in Japan. With its rich history, strong teams, and talented players, it is a league that is truly worth watching. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just getting into the sport, Kanto Daigaku Sakkaa is sure to provide plenty of excitement and entertainment.
