Ryunosuke Ito, the young fly-half from Meiji University, is quickly becoming a household name in Japanese rugby. With three Nations Championship appearances under his belt, Ito has impressed coach Eddie Jones and the nation with his assured playmaking skills. But what makes Ito stand out is not just his talent on the field, but also the unique family dynamic that has shaped his rugby journey. Ito's older brother, Kotaro, plays as a fly-half for Black Rams Tokyo, and their younger sister, Chihiro, is a talented fly-half at Waseda University. This family trio's passion for rugby is evident, and their competitive spirit is only heightened by their shared love for the sport.
Ito's rugby journey began at a young age, starting the sport at just three years old. His older brother, Kotaro, has been a significant influence, inspiring Ito to pursue rugby and develop his skills. During his high school years, Ito led Kokugakuin Tochigi High School to the finals of the Hanazono tournament, showcasing his talent and leadership. Ito's versatility on the field is another notable aspect of his game. He can play as a scrum-half, centre, and wing, making him a valuable asset to any team. Jones has praised Ito's adaptability, highlighting his ability to cover the scrum-half position when needed.
One of Ito's most impressive achievements was leading the Japan XV to the Pacific Challenge 2024 title. Their 11-try, 65-15 victory over Tonga A in Samoa demonstrated Ito's leadership and playmaking abilities. This tournament, funded by World Rugby, aims to identify future Test rugby prospects, and Ito's performance certainly solidified his place in Japan's rugby future. Ito's talent and potential have not gone unnoticed, with Jones comparing him to the legendary fly-half, Yu Tamura.
Beyond the rugby field, Ito has a surprising side as a J-Pop superfan. He is a dedicated supporter of the idol girl groups Nogizaka46 and FRUITS ZIPPER, attending their live shows and showing his enthusiasm for the genre. This interest in J-Pop adds a layer of complexity to Ito's personality, showcasing his well-rounded nature and diverse interests. As Ito continues to shine in the rugby world, his unique family dynamic, early rugby beginnings, versatility on the field, and unexpected pop culture interests make him a fascinating figure to watch. The future of Japanese rugby looks bright with Ito leading the way, and his story is one that will continue to captivate fans and rugby enthusiasts alike.
