Nihon University Disbands American Football Club Founded in 1940 After On-Field Scandals Demand Rebuilding Efforts

Published 12/17/2023, 12:42 PM EST

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Brimming with scandalous revelations about the sporting team members, a renowned university in Tokyo made headlines for its latest strategies. In a shocking turn of events, Nihon University, one of Japan’s most prominent academic institutions, shared a decisive move, planning to disband its American football crew. But how did things go this sour?

Reportedly, some of the university football players were confronted with recurring charges of misconduct in recent times, provoking bold actions from the management. With consideration for such debated stances, this decision put a brutal halt in the team’s future prospects. As its foundation from back in the 40s came to a sudden climax, the news sent shockwaves through the local community and players alike.

University football team witnesses consistent setbacks

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Regrettably, this wrathful move was caused by the scandalous outbreaks that unfolded in the football team, especially when a third-year member was arrested in August. With allegations of concealing marijuana and a stimulant drug in the student dormitory, the accused player faced daunting outcomes, leaving a dark trail in his crew. 

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Founded in 1940, the American football team was popularly known as the Phoenix, creating a legacy in Japanese tournaments throughout all these years. While garnering the prestigious accomplishment of 21 Koshien Bowl national collegiate championship wins, the crew earned their dominance in professional sports. 

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However, these recent controversies landed a dreadful blow to their football career, leading to the team’s abrupt downfall by an authoritative declaration. As per reports, the issues on player misdemeanors were not a singular occurrence, with a fourth-year member getting evaluated shortly after his junior’s revelation. 

With charges of purchasing illegal drugs like cannabis against him, the student football player was accused of substance usage, followed by his connection with a dealer in Tokyo. While this situation escalated further, another third-year member was apprehended for a similar involvement in cannabis intake. 

Ongoing troubles lead to unforeseen career halt

Subsequently, the results of these recurring brand damages turned fateful for the entire football team, leaving them suffering from such climactic consequences. With swift actions, Nihon management announced the closure of the dormitory while suspending all sporting activities for an indefinite time period. 

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During a vivid meeting on December 1, the football team’s fate was ultimately handed out by the board after extensive conversations among the officials. With a vote of 11-9 in favor of abolishing the club, the final decision was announced while its stunned members subsequently made appeals for continuation. 

Acknowledging the challenging nature of this decision, the university’s football representatives expressed plans for supporting the current workers and students. According to reports from the Kantoh Collegiate Football Association, around 122 players were registered with the Nihon crew, calculated at the end of July. 

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Although the disheartened Nihon football team was torn apart, hopes for its revival within five years were also evident, while major leagues still remained distant for the players. Highlighting their epic comeback after a dangerous tackling scandal in 2018, the squad wished for renewed spirits, urging to make another fresh start in university games. 

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Written by:

Sanchari Bhaduri

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Hello there readers! I am a spirited writer who brings you captivating stories at Viral Sports Moments! With a bachelor's degree in English, I kicked off my content creation journey back in 2015, diving headfirst into the thrilling world of freelancing. I have worn many hats along the way, including Content Manager at Reddit, where I honed my skills in the digital realm, accumulating a treasure trove of experience and a formidable skill set. Here at VSM, I revel in the wide range of sports we cover.
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Edited by:

Arnima Shukla