X League New Era Begins: SEKISUI Challengers to Play First Match of Year-Round League on May 10

Entering their third season as the SEKISUI Challengers, with Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd. as their main sponsor.

The SEKISUI Challengers, belonging to the American Football X League, will face their first match in the new "X League Premier" which kicks off on Sunday, May 10, 2026.

This season marks a significant overhaul from the traditional East-West division system and tournament format, adopting a "full round-robin league of 10 rounds" involving 11 teams. Furthermore, a "year-round system" (with a break in July and August) will be introduced, spanning from spring to autumn and winter, establishing a new format to determine the true champion over a long period. The top 6 teams will advance to the playoffs to compete for the Japan championship.

QB#8 Garrett Safron, entering his third season as captain.

In this historic opening match, the Challengers will play against Nojima Sagamihara RISE.

## Match Overview
Date: Sunday, May 10, 2026, 13:00 Kickoff
Venue: MK Taxi Field
Match: SEKISUI Challengers vs Nojima Sagamihara RISE

This match will be held with "free admission," providing an opportunity for those new to American football to easily attend.
Free viewing tickets can be applied for from the link below:
https://challengers-net.com/news450

WR#1 Boogie Knight, 2025 season league MVP.

## Abundant Visitor Participation Events
In addition to watching the game, various events will be held for visitors to enjoy.

- First 500 official LINE registrants will receive an "original megaphone."
- A "match attendance stamp rally" will be held using the official LINE.

We will provide a new stadium experience that integrates spectating with digital experiences.

## Amagasaki City 110th Anniversary Project
To commemorate the 110th anniversary of Amagasaki City, the Challengers' hometown, a new team mascot is scheduled to be announced.
Furthermore, the mascot's name will be decided through public solicitation from citizens, creating a new symbol for the team together with the local community.

LB#10 Tsubokura, leading the team as vice-captain.

Under the new league format, the Challengers aim to create value in both competitive strength and communication power, integrating more closely with the community than ever before.
Leveraging its uniqueness as a "top corporate league balancing work and sport," the team will deliver the appeal of American football to more people.

[Inquiries regarding this matter]
SEKISUI Challengers Public Relations
Official Website: https://challengers-net.com