Yoshiharu Yamaguchi (山口 良治, Yamaguchi Yoshiharu; 15 February 1943 – 29 May 2026) was a Japanese rugby union player. He made his debut for Japan against a touring New Zealand Universities team in Osaka on 12 March 1967. He last appeared for Japan against England's under 23 team in Twickenham on 13 October 1973.

Yoshiharu Yamaguchi
Born(1943-02-15)15 February 1943
Died29 May 2026(2026-05-29) (aged 83)
SchoolWakasa Higashi High School
UniversityNihon University
Rugby union career
Position Flanker
Amateur team(s)
Years Team Apps (Points)
Nihon University RFC
International career
Years Team Apps (Points)
1967–1973 Japan 13 (94)

Yamaguchi inspired the Japanese television series School Wars and the film School Wars: Hero which are based on his true story.

Yamaguchi died from a stroke on 29 May 2026, at the age of 83.[1]

References

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