top of page

Retired Players

29 November 2012

The GM Cup is played annually in memoriam of Gareth MacFadyen (1976-2000) between Tokyo Crusaders RFC and Yokohama Country and Athletic Club. Dearly remembered for his cheerful character and uncompromising work ethic on and off the field, Gareth MacFadyen played for both teams between 1996-2000. Since the inaugural contest in 2001, the Cup has been played fourteen times, with Tokyo Crusaders emerging victorious four times. Especially the thrilling comeback in 2007, with the Cru trailing by 18 points with less than 15 minutes to play and edging the opposition by 1 point (33-32) is remembered as a highlight in the club’s history (read the details of the match winning try scored by Bevan Colless on our “Cru Moments” page). This year the contest was honoured by a visit from Gareth MacFadyen’s sister and nephew, who traveled all the way from New Zealand to attend the event. On a great day out, the two teams held a fair but hard fought battle, which saw Yokohama come out on top. Watch this space for a full match report soon.


Geo Chester - Flanker

Most proficient at defense, this will be my third year playing and my fifth rugby season. I have played 15s, 13s, 10s, and 7s. This is my first year with the Cru and up to this point I have played every position except prop, though I have lifted a number of times. The reason I play rugby is because it is a great excuse to run around and hit people. My pastimes are eating, exercising, drinking beer, and long walks on the beach.

  • Nationality: America

  • Occupation: University student

  • Age: 21

  • Height: 178 cm

  • Weight: 81 kg

  • Quote of the season: (after I do a test ball pass) "Well, you're not going to be fly-half."


Yutaka Negishi - Center

I started playing rugby in high school, then played for my University in Yokohama. I have played various positions and now can play any position. I like the Cru because it has a great social club and a fun place to play rugby.

  • Nationality: Japan

  • Occupation: Graduate student

  • Age: 26

  • Height: 172 cm

  • Weight: 72 kg


Jackson Polletta - Winger

Just started when I came to Japan as a study abroad student. As soon as I made a hit, I knew I was going back to my school and joining my rugby club. I really enjoy rugby for the speed, the ball never stops moving and neither do the players. Rugby is a great combination of speed and power, and I really enjoy the balance between the two.

  • Nationality: America

  • Occupation: University student

  • Age: 20

  • Height: 170 cm

  • Weight: 72 kg


Sean Clancy - Prop

First season ever of rugby since Geo talked me into it. I've come to enjoy it a lot. Haven't played organized team sports since junior high. I am focused right now on being a sure tackler, and running forward for as long as possible when I have the ball. Hobbies are martial arts (that I don't train yet in Japan), guitar (that I don't have with me), exercise, studying and clubbing.

  • Nationality: America

  • Occupation: University student

  • Age: 24

  • Height: 188 cm

  • Weight: 95 kg

  • Quote of the season: "Just follow the change."-Brendan, after he delivered me a try-scoring pass based on echolocation of my jangly pockets.

bottom of page