Shigeru Konno

Known as Shiggy, Shigeru Konno was a prominent figure in Japanese rugby, serving as its president and contributing significantly to the sport's development in Japan. His leadership and vision were instrumental in Japan's successful hosting of the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Konno's life spanned 84 years, and he was known for his engaging personality and fluency in English, often sharing his remarkable life experiences, including his narrow escape from becoming a Kamikaze pilot during World War II. His legacy in rugby continues to inspire many.