Be Forward Japan

erd at Meiji University, one of the best college teams, for 67 consecutive years as their Head Coach, was -- and still is – the most well-known man ever in the history of Rugby in Japan. When asked for his autograph, the legendary coach signed his name with an addition of a phrase that signified “Take a Step Forward.” It is widely known among Rugby insiders.　It was a reflection of the legend’s philosophy that his team should “always take steps forward,” physically and mentally, even if players were completely defeated and losing the game, because their goal is always ahead of them, not behind. Hironori Yamakawa, also a Meiji University alumnus, was deeply moved by this and decided to name his company after Kitajima’s saying.　So, hence, “Be (positive and always) (Take a Step) Forward.