Last updated : Thursday, 27 June 2024
Introduction
The X League is Japan's top American football organization. It was founded in 1971 and is made up of 55 teams divided into three tiers: X1 Super, X2, and X3. The top tier, X1 Super, has eight teams that stretch geographically from the Kanto to Kansai regions.
X League players are all amateurs. Teams may include up to four import players from overseas, with no more than two allowed on the field at a time.
The X League season runs from spring to autumn, with the championship game, the Rice Bowl, being held in December.
The X League has been growing in popularity in recent years, and is now considered to be one of the best amateur football leagues in the world.
History
The X League was founded in 1971 by the Japan American Football Association (JAFA). The league's first season consisted of just six teams, but it has since grown to include 55 teams.
The X League has been dominated by a few teams over the years. The Obihiro Blizzards have won the most championships, with 11 titles. The Fujitsu Frontiers and the IBM Big Blue have each won eight championships.
The X League has also produced a number of players who have gone on to play in the NFL. The most famous example is Takeo Spikes, who was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the first round of the 1998 NFL Draft.
Rules and regulations
The X League uses the same rules and regulations as the NFL. However, there are a few minor differences. For example, the X League allows for a wider field and a shorter playing field.
The X League also has a stricter policy on foreign players. Teams are only allowed to have four import players, and no more than two can be on the field at a time.
