July 3, 2010
The 49th Seven Universities Athletic Meet Opening Ceremony was held in the Nagoya University Toyoda Auditorium.
The Seven Universities Athletic Meet has a long history dating back to 1962, operating from the start under the five principles of "true amateurism," "student autonomy," "improving competition levels," "promoting intercollegiate friendship," and "economizing operating expenses." This 49th Meet was conducted under the auspice of Nagoya University, and the grand opening ceremony, full of Nagoya University’s originality and ingenuity, was attended by the presidents of each university, university personnel including vice presidents, and athletic club/union members. Attendants from Kyoto University included President Hiroshi Matsumoto, Executive Vice-President Shuzo Nishimura, and Sports Union Chair Masato Nagata, and the championship flag and trophy were returned by Kyoto University, the overall champion that triumphed over the host university.
Following the opening ceremony was a reception. After the kagamibiraki (splitting of the sake barrel) by university presidents and the sports union chair, each university president gave a greeting address. President Matsumoto fervently wished a successful performance for the Kyoto University athletes. Warmed by the athletes' passion to win, the reception proved a great opportunity for all to socialize and make friends.
 Nagoya University President Michinari Hamaguchi speaking at the Opening Ceremony |  Kyoto University Sports Union Secretary-General Araki Wakiuchi returning the trophy to the Nagoya University President |
 Kagamibiraki by university presidents and the sports union chair |  President Matsumoto surrounded by Kyoto University students at the reception |