Rugby club Munakata Sanix Blues, home to several Japan internationals over the years, announced Wednesday they will suspend activities from the end of May, after wrapping up the season in the third tier of Japan's League One.
The Fukuoka Prefecture-based Blues have struggled to make progress toward their goal of returning to the top division amid deteriorating business conditions for parent company Sanix Inc., which operates divisions ranging from home sanitation to solar engineering.
The company said it is looking to offload the team and help players make transfers, but has so far not made any solid negotiations.
Sanix will maintain its training facilities and continue its sponsorship of international youth rugby competitions.
Company executive Hiroshi Soga said the business climate had forced Sanix to make a "tough decision."
"We made a comprehensive decision in light of the current business situation," Soga said in an online press conference.
Established in 1994, the Blues attracted a number of big names, including current Japan head coach Jamie Joseph, who played for the club from 1995 to 2000.
The current Blues roster includes former Brave Blossoms back Karne Hesketh.
League One executive Hajime Shoji said format changes to the relegation and promotion playoffs for the second and third division, resulting from the Blues' suspension, would be decided by mid-April.
"It's very disappointing. I want to move ahead with the entry of new members to the league quickly," Shoji said.
