Rugby: NEC to offload Green Rockets after League One season
The electronics maker said it carefully considered its position before reaching a decision on the rugby club, who finished third in the League One second division last season.
"We have determined that it would be difficult for NEC to further develop the team in a sustainable manner over the medium to long term," the company said in a statement.
Founded in 1985, the club won a total of three All-Japan Championships as the NEC corporate side and Top League's NEC Green Rockets.
League One Chief Operating Officer Hajime Shoji expressed disappointment at the announcement but said the league would assist in the transfer of the team, once home to former Japan captain Takuro Miuchi and more recently ex-Brave Blossoms scrumhalf Fumiaki Tanaka.
"We respect NEC's decision and will fully cooperate with any necessary efforts to ensure the team's history and assets are passed on," he said.
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