JACK DIAMOND AWARD

Nathan's remarkable rugby career spanned 15 years, during which he captained the Canadian Sevens team through multiple prestigious tournaments. He became an ever-present figure for Canada in the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series since his debut in Dubai in 2006. He was instrumental in Canada’s success, becoming third on the World Rugby Sevens all-time scoring list, with 1,859 total points. This long history positions him well as a commentator at this year’s Vancouver Sevens event. Nathan's leadership and skill on the field culminated in a proud moment as Flag Bearer for Team Canada at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics, alongside basketball player Miranda Ayim.

In addition to his Sevens career, Nathan was a key member of Canada’s Fifteens team, representing the country at the 2007, 2011, and 2015 Rugby World Cup tournaments. Although he didn't play in the 2007 World Cup, he played in 2011 and started in 2015, where he showcased his incredible skill and versatility, particularly at the fly-half position, scoring 20 points across the group stage matches.

Nathan also represented Canada at the Commonwealth Games in 2010, 2014, and 2018, and won gold medals at the Pan American Games in 2011 and 2015, with a silver in 2019. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to rugby and sports in Canada, Nathan is being inducted into the BC Sports Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2025.

Now retired from competitive rugby, Nathan has turned his focus to giving back to the community that shaped him. He serves as a firefighter in Richmond, continuing to perform with the same level of dedication he exhibited on the field. 

Nathan’s journey was shaped by the guidance and example of his father, Garry Hirayama, who was also a prominent Canadian rugby player and member of the 1974-76 UBC Men's Rugby Team,  considered one of the best Thunderbird rugby teams to ever play the game. Garry's experience and influence in the sport instilled in Nathan a passion for rugby that continues to inspire him to nurture the next generation of athletes.

As an ambassador for the World Series of Sevens, Nathan actively promotes rugby through community programs, endeavouring to grow the game globally. Eager to share the experiences and opportunities that sport can provide, Nathan also volunteers as a coach, mentoring young players across the Lower Mainland. His efforts on and off the field highlight the importance of perseverance and leadership and serve as a beacon for passionate young athletes striving to make an impact in their communities.

Nathan’s regimen goes beyond the physical demands of sport, as he champions a holistic approach to mental and physical training. His commitment to both his athletic and professional career highlight the connection between peak performance and self-discipline.

We are thrilled to recognize his incredible journey and achievements in rugby and beyond. Please join us on Wednesday, February 12 at the 2025 RBC JCC Sports Dinner to celebrate Nathan Hirayama, an outstanding member of the athletic community.