The Japan Rugby 2019 organising committee has today launched ‘Team No Side ’– the official volunteer programme for Rugby World Cup 2019.‘Team No-Side’ will be made up of 10,000 volunteers who will be the faces of the tournament, showcasing rugby’s values and Japan’s world-famous welcome at Asia’s first Rugby World Cup.

In line with the tournament vision, ‘Team No-Side’ will connect with fans, create unforgettable experiences and go forward to deliver an exceptional Rugby World Cup for all.

Rugby World Cup Japan No Side

Volunteers will play a key role in the delivery of the six-week tournament with a range of roles, including transport, meet and greet, accreditation, way-finding and fan-zones and will all vary in duration.

Recruitment will begin on 23 April through an online application process on www.rugbyworldcup.com with the programme featuring a dedicated interview process followed by comprehensive training for successful candidates.

Further details will be announced at the launch in April. Through links with rugby clubs and a collaboration with Tokyo 2020, the programme will deliver a strong legacy of skilled volunteers for the rugby family, the Olympic Games and beyond as Japan establishes itself as a major event destination.

Japan Rugby 2019 CEO Akira Shimazu said: “No-side is already a key value within Japan rugby, and this is an opportunity to take it beyond rugby, showcasing the no-side spirit to both local and international visitors. We are hopeful this will lead to an increase in participation in volunteering, both sporting events and in general.”

World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont added: “Rugby is all about teamwork and strong values and the successful delivery of a tournament of this scale could not be possible without a team of dedicated and enthusiastic team of volunteers.

“The volunteers were at the heart of a very special Rugby World Cup 2015 and were certainly a highlight for fans and teams – they were the face of a tournament that had a superb carnival atmosphere. Japan is famous for its hospitality and I am sure that ‘Team No-Side’ will play a key role in ensuring a memorable experience for all who attend Japan 2019.”