Friday 18th to Sunday 20th May - HONG KONG FOOTBALL CLUB
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HONG KONG FOOTBALL CLUB MAY 2018
Friday 18th to Sunday 20th May
29 33 44
Contents
GENERAL COMMITTEE
President : Dermot Agnew
Vice President : Fook Aun Chew
Vice President : Nick Hunsworth
Vice President : Bobby Lawson
Vice President : Iain Valentine
Chairman : John Shanahan
Hon. Secretary : Mike Wood
Hon. Treasurer : Alan Morgan
Constitutional Affairs : Jeff Lane
Development : Peter Crabtree The Thoughts of the Chairman.......................................2
Discipline : James Niehorster
Membership : Maurice O’Brien
Sports & Recreation : Karin Looram
From the Desk of Mark Pawley ......................................4
Hockey Officer : Charles Poulton
Lawn Bowls Officer : Mike Worth Photo from the Annual Staff Party...................................5
Rugby Officer : Don Rider
Soccer Officer : Neil Jensen Photo from the Easter Activities......................................6
Squash Officer : Malcolm Kerr
Food and Beverage promotions......................................8
MANAGEMENT
General Manager : Mark Pawley Squash.......................................................................19
Director of Operations : Tony Sealy
Director of Food and Beverage : Dominique Artigolle
Rugby.........................................................................22
Director of Finance : Ricky Chan
Asst. Financial Controller : May Chang
Executive Chef : Jason Kelly Lynn
Mini Rugby..................................................................25
Facilities Manager : Evan Tao
Membership Services Manager : Kerry Ogle Soccer........................................................................29
Human Resources Manager : Angela Chan
Executive Housekeeper : Tracy Tseung Hockey.......................................................................33
Lawn Bowls.................................................................39
Netball........................................................................41
CLUB MAGAZINE
Monthly journal of the Hong Kong Football
Tennis.........................................................................43
Club. Arranged by Brian Chun. For information
and requests for placement of advertisements Golf............................................................................44
in “Club” please call 2830 9503. The opinions
expressed in the articles are those of the writers Swimming and Triathlon...............................................47
and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of
the Hong Kong Football Club or the General Badminton..................................................................48
Committee. The Club reserves the right to
edit and clarify all content. The copyright of all Movie and Book Library ..............................................49
materials is held by the Hong Kong Football Club.
Club Magazine May 2018 1
The Thoughts of the Chairman
Dear Members,
T
he Second Floor re-opened just in time for and Hove Albion, Newcastle United and West Ham
Rugby Week and our “soft opening” of the new United from the English Premier League, as well as
food and beverage facilities turned out to be the Australian A-League side Wellington Phoenix and
busiest week of the year! Well done to all the Staff for Newcastle Jets, Japanese J-League team Kashima
coping admirably in new working conditions and under Antlers and Scottish Premier League side Glasgow
great pressure. As we deal with defect rectification Rangers, along with Serie-A side Cagliari. The Club
works and some issues with new equipment, we will will also be entering two teams and the Hong Kong
look to expand the menus at the Second Floor outlets. Football Association will be represented by the HKFA
Artwork and other detailing will also begin to be put in Red Dragons and, as usual, we welcome back Hong
John J Shanahan, place and we will then “live with” the new facilities for Kong Premier League champions, Kitchee. Plenty of
Chairman
a while and see what changes will be needed as time soccer action for you to enjoy this month, so why not
goes on. come down to the Club and cheer the teams on.
Even though April was a busy sporting month, And, to close out the month we host the Hong
especially for rugby, we will also have a busy May. The Kong V Malaysia match in the Asian Rugby
Yau Yee League Cup Finals will be held on the Main Championship on Saturday 26th May.
Pitch on the 5th May, with our very own Colts in the
In closing, I will note, as mentioned below, the
Cup Final. On the 6th May, we host the Hong Kong
passing of ex-Club Chairman and Soccer Section
Lawn Bowls Association Men’s National Pairs
member, Keith Marshall, who was Chairman of the
Semi-Finals. And, we have the HKFC Junior Soccer
Club from 1985-1988. Our condolences to his family
Sevens Tournament the weekend of the 12th and
and friends.
13th May. On the 18th – 20th May, we have our 19th
annual international soccer tournament, the HKFC
Citi Soccer Sevens, with 16 teams from around
the world in the competition. These include such John J Shanahan
illustrious teams as Leicester City, Aston Villa, Brighton Chairman
Obituary
We were saddened to hear the news of the recent passing of ex-Club Chairman and Soccer Section member,
Keith Marshall, who was Chairman of the Club from 1985-1988.
Our thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
2 May 2018
HONG KONG FOOTBALL CLUB
For Sale
Race Box CORPORATE
SUBSCRIBERSHIPS
at the Happy Valley Race Course
The Club maintains a Box at the Happy Valley race The HKFC is currently offering 50 Corporate
course which is available for Members to book in Subscriberships for sale, at a price of HK$3.3m
advance. each, to help fund the future renovation of the
HKFC.
Cost:
On purchase of a Corporate Subscribership a
F&B Package: $710 per head.
company becomes a Corporate Member and
Admission badge: $60 per head.
is entitled to nominate an individual and their
F&B arrangement: immediate family to enjoy the benefits of
The Race Box is provided with a Buffet and membership of the HKFC.
unlimited drinks. More information can be obtained by
Beverages are available from 6pm, and Dinner Buffet contacting Kerry Ogle, Membership Services
is available from 6.30pm to 9.30pm Manager on 2830 9502 or by email to
membership@hkfc.com.
Booking:
For information on HKFC facilities please view
Booking Forms are available at Reception and from
our website www.hkfc.com.hk. the website at www.hkfc.com.hk
Interested parties should submit a written
application to:
The Membership Services Manager
Hong Kong Football Club,
3 Sports Road, Happy Valley, Hong Kong
Club Magazine May 2018 3
From the Desk of Mark Pawley
A
s the Chairman has noted in his article the Carvery Set Lunch is now available again in the
the newly renovated 2/Fl is now open (at Chairman’s Bar and, for those gin drinkers amongst
time of writing it has been open for just you, I see that we now have a rather nice looking Gin
three weeks) and, whilst the 1st April was and Tonic menu available (in the Chairman’s Bar) – the
probably not the best day to have opened, we had to different gins being served with the Fever-Tree Premium
get everything ready for the start of Rugby Week just Tonic Water range.
a couple of days later. The Staff did a tremendous job
In the Restaurant there is virtually a full A la Carte menu
in getting all the Outlets set-up and ready to operate
now available and, don’t forget to look to book the first
with literally a couple of days notice. Obviously too,
Wine Dinner (in the new Restaurant) on Thursday 31st
the Kitchen Brigade had to move into a brand new
May – the Tenuta Di Corte Giacobbe and Dal Cero Wine
Mark Pawley, kitchen, with a completely different layout and, within
General Manager
Dinner which is hosted by the winery owner, Francesca
four days of opening move from zero food production
Dal Cero.
to the single busiest day of the year – the Thursday
of the Rugby Tens! So, a massive thank you to all An absolute forget-me-not is Mother’s Day on Sunday
Staff Members for the effort put in not only for the 2/ 13th May where, per the notice on page 16 of the
Fl opening but also for coping with the business levels magazine we have something different going on in the
achieved over Rugby Week. Coffee Shop, Restaurant and Happy Valley Suites.
Talking of Staff, quite quickly after the Annual Staff And, a big well done to the Organising Committee for
Party (for last year), we started the process for the next the GFI HKFC Rugby Tens and the very best of luck
Employee(s) of the Year. It is pleasing to report (see to the Organising Committee of the HKFC Citi Soccer
photos below) that Connie, Sin and Rainbow are the Sevens – the 18th to the 20th May.
recipients of the First Quarter Star Award. Well done
I look forward to seeing you all at the Club!
to all three for getting nominated, and then chosen for,
this award.
Mark Pawley,
On the food and beverage front whilst we are not
General Manager
quite up to full speed at the moment, I can say that
2018 Q1 Staff Star Award
Kwong Lai Yi, Connie - F&B (Bars) Chan Yuk Sin - Housekeeping Lam Hoi Yee, Rainbow – Security
4 May 2018
HKFC Annual Staff Party
Club Magazine May 2018 5
Easter Activities 6 May 2018
CHAIRMAN’S BAR LOUNGE BAR
Dress Code: Smart Casual Dress Code: Casual
Operation Hours Operation Hours
Daily: Noon - Midnight Daily: 11am - Midnight
Lunch: (Daily) Noon - 3pm Last Food Order: Daily 10pm
Lunch Carvery Last Order: (Mon-Fri) 2.30pm Last Beverage Order: Daily 11.30pm
Dinner Last Food Order: Daily 10pm
Last Beverage Order: Daily 11.30pm Located next to the Chairman’s Bar, Members can find a
Tel: 2830 9559 place to unwind and read the news paper whilst enjoying a
glass of wine or a cup of coffee.
Menu from the Chairman’s Bar will be available.
A well established outlet. Ideal for Members who prefer a
more tranquil and relaxed venue to enjoy drinks, snacks
and meals. The well-known Carvery Lunch will remain the
signature offering at Lunch from Monday to Friday.
A selection of craft whisky, beers is offered besides a COFFEE SHOP
selection of wines by the glass.
Dress Code: Casual
Operation Hours
Daily: 7.30am - 10.30pm
Last F&B Order: Daily 10pm
Toddlers (age 3 and under) eat for FREE
THE RESTAURANT
Tel: 2830 9569
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Operation Hours
The All-Day Dining Coffee Shop’s main attraction is the
Lunch: (Mon-Sun) Noon - 3pm
built-in buffet with an Open Kitchen.
Last F&B Order: 2.30pm
The buffet will be used for all major meal periods 7 days
Dinner: (Mon-Sat) 7pm - 10.30pm a week: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Additionally to the
Last F&B Order: 10pm buffet, the Open Kitchen will also provide Asian
Sun: 5.30pm - 10pm and Western comfort meals.
Last F&B Order: 9.30pm An A La Carte Menu will provide selected all-times
favourites throughout the day.
Tel: 2830 9562
The Restaurant will serve contemporary Italian cuisine,
emphasising on Chef Massimo’s Italian background and
experience with a touch of class without over doing it.
Importance will be given to freshness and authentic
HAPPY VALLEY SUITES 1 & 2
ingredients. For Lunch a Semi Buffet will be available and, Dress Code: Smart Casual
in the evening an A la carte menu will be offered. Operation Hours
Brunch: (Sun) 11am - 3pm (Last arrival 2pm)
Semi Buffet Dinner: (Sun) 6.30pm - 10pm
(Last arrival 9pm)
Last Beverage Order: (Sun Brunch) 2.30pm
Last Beverage Order: (Sun Dinner) 9.30pm
Tel: 2830 9559
Along with functions the Happy Valley Suites will be the new
destination for our Sunday Brunch and Sunday semi Dinner
Seafood buffet.
8 May 20187days Mediterranean Crown Princess
Barcelona, Spain | Gibraltar, Great Britain | Marseille (Provence), France | Genoa, Italy |
Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy | Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
BALCONY 37%off
Y 2, 23 Jun | 14 Jul | 4, 25 Aug | 15 Sep HKD16,347up
O N Fare:
HKD10,263up
BALCTASY 11days Scandinavia & Russia Regal Princess
FA N E40%
o
up t
SAL
of f
Copenhagen, Denmark | Oslo, Norway | Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany | Tallinn, Estonia |
St.Petersburg, Russia [overnight] | Helsinki, Finland | Stockholm, Sweden |
Copenhagen, Denmark
BALCONY 26%off HKD26,866up
10, 21 May | 1, 12, 23 Jun | 4, 15, 26 Jul | 6, 17, 28 Aug Fare:
HKD19,846up
12days British Isles Royal Princess
London (Southampton), England | Guernsey (St. Peter Port), England | Cork, Ireland (Cobh - For Blarney
Castle) | Dublin, Ireland | Belfast, Northern Ireland | Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland | Orkney Islands
(Kirkwall), Scotland | Invergordon, Scotland | Edinburgh (South Queensferry), Scotland | Paris/Normandy
(Le Havre), France | London (Southampton), England
1^, 13^, 25 May | 6*, 18, 30^ Jun | 12*, 24* Jul | BALCONY 23%off HKD26,513up
5*, 17^, 29 Aug
5, 17Aug departures will feature “Edinburgh Military Tattoo”
Fare:
HKD20,194up
^will stay overnight at Dublin, will not call to Orkney Islands *Liverpool replaces Orkney Islands, port order varies
7days Voyage of Glaciers ( Southbound )
Golden Princess | Coral Princess | Star Princess | Island Princess
Anchorage (Whittier), Alaska | Hubbard Glacier, Alaska [Scenic Cruising] | Glacier Bay National
Park, Alaska [Scenic Cruising] | Skagway, Alaska | Juneau, Alaska | Ketchikan, Alaska |
Vancouver, British Columbia
May - Sep ( Wed & Sat departures) BALCONY 11%off HKD16,373up
Northbound - reverse itinerary; College Fjord replaces Hubbard Glacier,
Icy Strait point replaces Ketchikan for some departures
Fare:
HKD14,501up
view more 8days Circle Japan Diamond Princess
sailings: Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan | Ishinomaki, Japan | Hakodate, Japan | Akita, Japan | Busan, South
Korea | Kagoshima, Japan | Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan
BALCONY 40%off HKD18,518up
2018 departure date: 4, 17 Sep Fare:
HKD10,952up
HOLIDAY CARIBBEAN DEALS
7days West Caribbean
Royal Princess | Regal Princess
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida | Princess Cays, Bahamas | Falmouth, Jamaica | Grand Cayman,
Cayman Islands | Cozumel, Mexico | Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
INTERIOR 21%off HKD7,364up
2018 departure date: 2, 8^, 16, 22^ ,30 Dec
HKD5,804up
2019
Fare:
^Roatan replaces Princess Cays; Belize City replaces Falmouth, port order varies
Promotion will be subject to capacity control.
Please note that prices are listed per person, non-air cruise-only and based on double occupancy. Fares INCLUDE Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses.
Terms & Conditions applied. Princess Cruises reserves the right to add, edit, modify, delete any contents without giving any prior notice.
2952 8067 | 6898 8919FOOD AND BEVERAGE
LUNCH AT THE CLUB
THE RESTAURANT THE COFFEE SHOP THE CHAIRMAN’S BAR
Monday to Friday Monday to Thursday Monday to Friday
from Noon to 2.30pm from Noon to 2.30pm from Noon to 2.30pm
Set Lunch with Starter Buffet Light Lunch Buffet “Carvery” Set Lunch
2 Courses: 190 148 (Adult) 2 Courses: 138
Add 25 and enjoy a third course 74 (Teens age 8 – 11) 3 Courses: 165
50 (Young age 4 – 7)
Saturday to Sunday
from Noon to 2.30pm Friday to Sunday
Set Lunch with Starter Buffet from Noon to 2.30pm
3 Courses: 250 International Lunch Buffet
180 (Adult)
90 (Teens age 8 – 11)
58 (Young age 4 – 7)
Available at the Kiosk
Palate friendly and
Wallet worthy wines
A selection of more than 10 wines priced at 98 per bottle
are available at the Kiosk.
10 May 201811+/13+ ENGLISH / MATHS / SCIENCE / HUMANITIES
6+ ENGLISH / MATHS ESSAY SKILLS
VERBAL / NON-VERBAL REASONING
PUBLIC SPEAKING & DEBATE ISEB PRE-TEST CREATIVE WRITING
IGCSE / A LEVEL / IB IGCSE FRENCH
UK SCHOOL CONSULTANCY SKYPE TUTORIAL
INTENSIVE REVISION COURSES
GROUP ACTIVITY - INTERVIEW PREPARATION
FOR BENENDEN, WYCOMBE ABBEY , DOWNE HOUSE AND RADLEY
ART FOR INTERVIEWS GROUP INTERVIEW PREP PRACTICAL SCIENCE FOR INTERVIEWS
Br a n do n L e a r n in g C e n tr e
www.brandoncentre.com
ANDON
KEEP CALM AND COME TO BR
CLC TONBRIDGE
WINCHESTER WYCOMBE ABBEY
RADLEY DOWNE HOUSE
RUGBY ETON
HARROW UPPINGHAMFOOD AND BEVERAGE
in the Sportsman’s Bar F&B Promotion in the Sportsman’s Bar
SOCCER: RIBS MONTH
Our very own International Soccer 7’s tournament is back with in the Sportsman’s Bar
a bang over the weekend of Friday 18th to Sunday 20th May. Everyone loves some good ribs. With a cool beer or a glass of wine,
Food will be available “pitch-side” throughout the weekend. this is an easy, no fuss lunch or dinner treat
A week before we will be hosting the Mini Soccer 7’s for the
kids from the 12th to 13th May.
On the screen, the 2018 UEFA Champions League final is
on the 26th May at Olimpiyskiy National Sports Complex, Kiev,
Ukraine, the kick off time is 9.45pm Ukraine time. We will be
replaying the game the next day.
The English Premier League takes the spotlight with plenty of
important games on. Please make sure you check the notice
boards for the updated dates and times.
RUGBY:
The European Rugby Champions Cup Final will be held at the
Estadio De San Mamés, Spain on Saturday 12th May.
Also in our own “Backyard”, we play host to the Asian Rugby
Championship, with Hong Kong Vs Malaysia on Saturday
26th May
F1 AUTO RACING:
Spanish Grand Prix: 11th – 13th May
Monaco Grand Prix: 24th – 27th May
TENNIS
French Open, Roland Garros, Paris, France:
28th May – 10th June.
Keep up to date on the Club website and all sports notice
boards.
For further information, please call the Sportsman’s Bar
at 2830 9531
PENCIL YOUR DIARY:
Thursday, 14th June: OPENING GAME
Friday, 6th July: Quarter Finals
Beer of the month
Saturday, 7th July: Quarter Finals
Tuesday, 10th July: Semi Final
Wednesday, 11th July: Semi Final
SUNDAY, 15TH JULY – 3.5% ALCOHOL
2018 FIFA WORLD CUP FINAL
LOWER CARBOHYDRATES
Sportsman’s Bar and Chairman’s Bar will show the 2018 24 per bottle
FIFA world Cup
Available at the Sportsman’s Bar, Captain’s Bar
and Coffee Shop
in the Sportsman’s Bar Sportsman’s Bar
State of Origin Series LIVE
Wednesday, 6th June OPENING HOURS
Sunday, 24th June
As the Mini Soccer and Mini Rugby training seasons are coming to an
end, starting from June, the Sportsman’s Bar will open at 11am on
Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays until further notice.
12 May 2018FOOD AND BEVERAGE
In the Chairman’s Bar
14 May 2018Club Magazine May 2018 15
16 May 2018
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
JUNE PREVIEW
Club Magazine May 2018 17JUNE PREVIEW 18 May 2018
Squash News
HKFC and HKCC Squashers
Give Cricket Team run for their Money
off drives. At the other end John Thompson the other opener was
struggling to get the ball away and was happy to see the opening pair
of bowlers replaced in the 10th over. Unfortunately this was the time
when the Taverners upped the pace and put on two quicks which made
the scoring even harder. Keith got to 33 and retired to bring in Malcolm
Kerr (14 runs) who started well with some nice cut shots. John by this
time was trying anything he could to get runs and after being dropped
was then caught and bowled in the next over for 14. The HKCC squash
star player Chris Evans increased the scoring rate with some fantastic
long sixes down the ground and was quickly to his 30 and retired. This
brought in Chairman Dave Cross who hit some excellent fours to quickly
get to 30 and retire. By then the scoring rate was going well and the
lower order all gave a good account of themselves and adding runs to
the scoreboard with Dallas Reid getting 8 not out. The squash team
proved that they have true hand eye coordination and managed to score
190 in the allotted 35 overs.
With bowling being slightly more technical and less like a squash swing
than batting it was always going to be tough to keep the real cricketers
at bay which ended up being the case. The opening bowlers did well
In March a combined HKFC and HKCC Squash section cricket team
was put together to test their true sporting ability against the HKCC
Taverners cricket team.
keeping the run rate low with Keith Frith being very miserly and going
for 18 off his 5 overs. Dave Cross got two wickets with some nice on
the spot bowling showing his Yorkshire roots finishing with figures of 2
for 23. John Thompson managed to also get a wicket for 26 runs in his
On a fantastic sunny day which was ideal for cricket the six HKFC
5 overs and Malcolm showed that Scots can play cricket with a steady
players had a little trepidation prior to the match due to in some cases
9 off his 2 overs. Dallas ably kept wicket showing that he does indeed
not playing since school which for most was a significant time ago.
have a good pair of hands.
The squash combined team won the toss and elected to bat first. A
The Taverners managed to get the runs with 6 overs to spare and won
slow start ensued with the Taverners team starting with too very tight line
the game. A great post cricket analysis of the game then ensued with
and length bowlers which made it difficult to score easily. Rob Jones
Rob Jones winning the team’s moment of the day for putting his thigh
(2 runs) who opened the batting was unlucky when a good full ball was
pad on his wrong leg.
edged to slip and well held to bring in Keith Frith. As Keith is one of
the few players who regularly plays cricket his class showed by keeping The day was so successful that a full HKFC squash team have been
the scoreboard ticking over with some fine shots including some nice asked back to play a HKCC squash team in the near future.
Rob Jones
Malcolm Kerr
Club Magazine May 2018 19SQUASH
HKFC Youngsters Make Their Mark at the
Hong Kong Intercollegiate Competition
It is my honour to report that some of HKFC’s
younger players have shown superior
performance in the Intercollegiate Squash
Player
Haywood Lau
League
(HKFC 2B)
College
The University of Hong Kong
Result
Bronze Medalist
Team Competition. Wilson Chan (HKFC 3B) Hong Kong Baptist University Silver Medalist
We had players from different divisions Gary Lam (HKFC 6) The University of Hong Kong Bronze Medalist
competing in the men’s and women’s event.
Jeff Leung (HKFC 8B) City University of Hong Kong Champion
The HKFC youngsters won trophies galore for
their respective university and colleges. Yurisa Yeung (HKFC L2C) Hong Kong Polytechnic University Champion
The team game had the Men’s event which was Gemma Sung (HKFC L2B) The University of Hong Kong Bronze Medalist
the Best of 5 rubbers and the Women’s event
which was the Best of 3 rubbers
In the women’s event, Gemma
Haywood Lau (HKFC 2B) and Gary Lam Sung (HKFC L2B) won a
(HKFC 6) of HK University won their bronze bronze medal to follow in the
medal match 3-1 against Chinese University footsteps of the HKU men’s
HK in which Robinson Law, the former Hong team where she overcame her
Kong Junior Open champion, played position 1 opponent from HKUST in her
for the team. match. Haywood Lau
In another pool, HK Baptist University (HKBU), Another great victory was by
the dark horse and bronze medalist last year Yurisa Yeung (HKFC L2C)
were ably led by Wilson Chan (HKFC 3B) this of Poly U who triumphed in
year. This university team was the giant killer the women’s final. PolyU beat
of the competition, first beating EduHK and CityU 2-1 in which Ho Tze
CUHK, then seeing off last year’s runner-up Lok, the world ranked top
PolyU in the last pool match. HKBU went on 50 played in the team. The
and dethroned HKU 3-0 convincingly in the result saw PolyU successfully Gemma Sung
semifinal and reached the final. winning their 6th consecutive
At the last day of the tournament, HKBU played title in this event.
City University led by Jeff Leung (HKFC 8B) Thank you Himmy Yeung (HKFC 10), the PolyU
in the final, which was a repeat of the semifinal graduate and former player for cheering for
of last year. Both teams were unbeaten on the us. Special thanks to the siblings Nam Chan
Wilson Chan, Yurisa Yeung, Himmy Yeung,
Gary Lam
way through to the final. Jeff who was a reserve (HKFC 6) and Niki Chan (HKFC L2B) for being
player in the final, led his fellow teammates part of the officials to make the tournament Intercollegiate Cup! Most importantly, it
to beat HKBU 3-0 with the presence of Hong successful. makes the Club proud that we have so many
Kong National Team member Wong Chi Him
What you can do to make your college successful juniors.
playing in their number one spot.
life memorable? Definitely winning the Wilson Chan
Wilson Chan Jeff Leung
Ladder Movers
of the Month
Men’s
Terence Teo 127
Kenneth Lo 98
Roger Liden 43
20 May 2018SQUASH
Check us out at ww.hkfcsquash.com
The Squash Sec+on invites Lady Members and squash beginners* to join 5 sessions of
beginners squash coaching FREE with our Professional Squash Coach, Carmen Lee.
Ø When: Every Tuesday from 8th May to 12th June 2018 at 18:30 -20:00 (Tues 22nd will be
moved to Wed 23rd due to holiday)
Ø Where: Squash Centre, 1st Floor
Ø How: Places are limited so register before 2nd May 2018 by contac+ng:
ladiescaptain@hkfcsquash.com
* Priority will be given to those who have not already a4ended a Beginners squash session. Not open to
current Ladies Squash Sec>on players
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Club Magazine May 2018 21Rugby News
UBB Gavekal claim back-to-back titles,
hosts Natixis HKFC lift Shield at GFI HKFC 10s
U
BB Gavekal retained the Bill Burgess Cup at the 33rd GFI HKFC “The Fiji guys did for us what they did for us last year, but our trademark
10s when a late try by Fiji Sevens back Leveni Kurimalawai is working hard for each other. I think that’s still our strength and I think
secured a thrilling 24-17 win over a Tradition YCAC side dominated you saw that in the final. To have three yellow cards against you and still
by New Zealanders. come out on top is a huge feat so I couldn’t be prouder of them.”
The all-Fijian Samurai squad secured the Plate, Hong Kong’s Taikoo Place UBB ran out to a quick 12-0 lead with tries from Bale and Raloa, before
Scottish Exiles grabbed the Bowl and hosts Natixis HKFC defeated Irish New Zealand’s Angus Gibbens pulled one back for YCAC. Raloa
Vikings to win the Shield at the ‘Worlds Best 10s’, which took place on extended UBB’s lead to 17-5 before tries by New Zealand’s Te Puoho
Wednesday 4th April and Thursday 5th April. Stephens and Tonga’s Willie Fotofili made it 17-17, but Kurimalawai
scored late on to ensure captain Nick Smith was left lifting the Cup.
UBB’s Fiji Sevens backs scored four tries in the final and proved to be the
difference as Samu Bale touched down for an early opener, Sakeo Raloa “It was the same thing as last year: we just came together as a tight unit,”
then added two tries and Kurimalawai scored the winner after the sides said Smith, who scored four tries from flyhalf, while compatriot Renata
were locked at 17-17 at Hong Kong Football Club. Tenana also scored four tries over the two days.
Representing Top 14 club Union Bordeaux Begles, UBB were surprise “We’re all from different parts of the world, from Fiji, South Africa, New
winners last year, but this year lived up to their top-seed status as head Zealand and Hong Kong, but at the end of the day, it’s how you gel
coach Matt Clarkin – the former UBB captain – led his side to a second together.”
successive victory.
Doddie Weir, the former Scotland and Lions lock suffering from Motor
“We’re ecstatic. We’re ecstatic! We knew going back-to-back was going Neurone Disease, walked out with the match ball for the final and was
to be an even bigger challenge than coming last year as underdogs, but presented with a HK$100,000 cheque for the My Name’5 Doddie
we thrived on that challenge and the boys showed up hungry and they Foundation, the tournament’s official charity.
got the job done,” said Clarkin, whose five Fiji Sevens players included
Natixis HKFC co-captains Tom Isaacs and Mitch Andrews lifted the
forwards Keponi Paul and Vasikali Mudu.
Shield after the hosts beat Irish Vikings 17-0. It was a popular victory
22 May 2018RUGBY
for the home side after an impressive domestic season and a personal and it was great to see them here
triumph for Isaacs, a former Wales Sevens back who lost in the Plate final again.”
twice when playing for Cardiff University in 2006 and 2007.
GFI has title sponsored the event
“We’re very happy. It was a tough two days, but we’re really proud of since 2006. Other sponsors and
the way the boys performed in the last two games. I got to the Plate suppliers for 2018 include Natixis
final twice before and actually lost against the Irish Vikings one time, so (Gold Sponsor), AIA, Allied World,
personally it was nice for me to get that win,” said Isaacs, whose team BT, DHL, Q-Net and Taikoo Place
were boosted by former Australia Sevens speedster Josh Coward, who (Silver Sponsors), CBRE, EY and
scored three tries. Markel (Bronze Sponsors), Last
Word Media, Volvo (Official Car),
“Josh was a big asset. He’s an exciting player once he gets his hands
Grolsch (Official Beer) and Samurai Sportswear (Official Apparel).
on the ball so it was one of our tactics to try to get it to him as quickly as
possible. He finished off some great tries and it was great to have him on Inaugurated in 1986 to celebrate Hong Kong Football Club’s centenary,
the ball.” the GFI HKFC 10s has long attracted the game’s top players including
seven All Blacks who won the 2015 Rugby World Cup – Conrad Smith,
Fourth seeds Samurai International won the second-tier Plate as an all-
Jerome Kaino (both 2003), Ben Smith, Charlie Faumuina (both 2008),
Fijian squad led by player-coach Nasoni Roko beat A-Trade Overseas
Beauden Barrett, Sam Cane (both 2010) and Nehe Milner-Skudder
Old Boys 28-7. Samurai’s dreams of winning the Cup for the first time
(2013).
were shattered by King’s College, who scored a last-play try to win a
dramatic Cup quarter-final 15-14. Cup Final: UBB Gavekal 24-17 Tradition YCAC
Plate Final: Samurai International 28-7 A-Trade Overseas Old Boys
Taikoo Place Scottish Exiles won a trophy for the first time at the GFI
Bowl Final: Taikoo Place Scottish Exiles 38-7 Hunter + Boo East Africans
HKFC 10s after the Hong Kong-based side beat Hunter + Boo East
Plate Final: Natixis HKFC 17-0 Irish Vikings
Africans 38-7 in the third-tier Bowl final. Competing for the seventh
straight year, Scottish Exiles had finished runner-up in the Plate final three
times, so captain Jamie Pincott was delighted to finally lift a trophy. For more information, visit:
Website: www.hongkongtens.com
“It’s been a long few years, especially hitting the finals a lot of the time and
YouTube: www.youtube.com/hkfc10s
coming away empty handed so it’s nice to have this win and to take the
Facebook: www.facebook.com/GFIHKFC10s
trophy home,” said Pincott.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GFIHKFC10s
“You can really hear the crowd out here and its really great to play in Instagram: www.instagram.com/gfihkfc10s
front of them so I really enjoyed it. It was great to be out there and East App (Google Play): GFI HKFC 10s
Africans are a tough team. It’s good to see them develop over the years Hashtag: #HK10s
Club Magazine May 2018 23RUGBY
Tales from the Bush
by Jimmy Richards, Rugby Section Captain
W
hat a great year it has been both on and off the field – League their support and assistance helped re-build the school which enrolls
titles, GC titles, GFI tens silverware and a packed Sporties more than a hundred students from aged 5 to 16. QNET and RYTHM
every Saturday. It’s been a very proud and humbling year Foundation worked to fix up the classrooms at the school with support
watching the efforts and spirit on display week in and week out there from QNET business leaders and the HKFC Vandals. The school has
and thanks to all the players, coaches, staff, old boys, Alikadoos and been refurbished with new roof, flooring, tables, chairs and teaching aids
everyone else who has contributed to this season. and was officially opened on 31st January by the Chairman of QNET Mr.
Richard Zinkiewicz. Thanks again to Sean Purdie for everything he
A massive congratulations to the Bulls and Sequins for doing the double
does regarding the Vandals as it wouldn’t be the same without him.
this year – a truly sensational achievement and huge congrats to Sias,
Darling and Scott Lindsay for all their efforts over the last twelve Well done to Cameron Henderson who was selected to
months not to mention Spizz for playing in both finals. represent Scotland U18s at the annual U18 festival in Wales
over Easter. Cameron was heavily involved in the wins
The Vandals tour in Yangon has made a tremendous difference to the
against England, France and Ireland and was awarded the
Zubuaye Monastery, located about 60kms outside of Yangon. The
coaches Player of the Tournament. We wish Cameron the
Zabuaye Monastery School has resumed classes and operations,
best of luck for the future and hope to see him one day in
thanks to the efforts of the HKFC Vandals rugby team who through
the Club colours playing in the GC finals.
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Members receive an additional 15% discount.
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24 May 2018Mini Rugby News
Valley team even out the results on the day
Message from Mini-Rugby Chairman (spiked Bonaqua anyone?). The Cobras really
came to the party, for the first time showing
A
some real intent and aggression in their play
nother Hong Kong Sevens has passed, and many of our young athletes enjoyed the
which helped them work together to blow
experience of stepping out on the stadium pitch for the showcase games at the Hong
away their opponents. Last but not least our
Kong Sevens; full year group reports and photo’s will follow.
combined Mustangs and Chargers team (or
Reports on the Minis Tour to Macau for the Macau BATS Festival (Saturday 14th April) and the “Mustards” as they renamed themselves, for no
HKFC Invitation Youth Tournament (formerly the Taipan Day matches) on Saturday 21st April obvious reason) – they had a slow start but in
should appear next month. patches showed us what they have learnt this
season and if they had played all afternoon like
And we have later this month Club’s Mini-Rugby Tour to Singapore for U6 to U10 to
they played in the last ten minutes of their last
participate in the TRC Junior Cup Tournament, with U11 playing a number of “friendlies”
game then their results would have been very
around that tournament.
different. A fantastic finish to the season boys.
For those who wondered, the 2017 / 2018 training season ends on Sunday 13th May. Collectively the squad has developed really well
Leaving the Minis Committee just over three months to prepare for the new season starting in over the season – they are more physical and
September ….. where did this season go! have much more shape to their game – and
their coaches are very proud of their efforts.
Best
Thanks from me to all the coaches for their
Denis Brock, Chairman, HKFC Mini-Rugby unstinting efforts over the season – I am sure
the parents feel the same way, and even some
of the players too!
Under 12B Girls posed the biggest threat in the pool stages, and Simon Cooke U11 Head Coach
the match was cut short due to injury, but we
It was the mighty U12G FC 2 last festival for this
still managed to score a try and take a 1-0 lead.
season and there was a quiet sense of purpose U9G FC1 Girls
Our final pool match was against TCRC/SLB,
amongst the squad – plate finals!
which we comfortably won 5-0. This set us up Coach Derek and Coach Pete were excited
The squad got off to a slow start against SKS, for the semi-final against DBP. Unfortunately, a to be back on the old sod for the annual home
but the result motivated the squad to get back few early calls went against us and we found tournament. The girls were also in good spirits
up and keep trying to improve each and every ourselves on the wrong end of the scoreline given the uncharacteristic late start in mid-
performance! Well, I always believed these in the first half. Despite sustained pressure afternoon! With four games ahead we would
girls had heart, and I wasn’t disappointed! The and some excellent play in the second half we need the efforts of the whole squad including
squad dug deep and pulled off three wins in the weren’t able to close the gap. Whilst we didn’t Lucy Duncan, who played for both teams.
next three games! win the big one, the boys should be very proud
We started with the University “students” who
of their performances throughout the season
The whole squad deserves a mention for needed a lesson or two. The mercurial Lexie
and the way in which their rugby has developed
effort and commitment! They missed a Plate Durrant, and hard charging Sophia Li, were
throughout the season. They have shown great
Finals spot by one competition point! Thanks key to a great victory. Valley up next proved
commitment, spirit and teamwork and have
to all the parents for their support this season, tougher, and despite the tough tackling Ella
been a pleasure to coach.
it’s been amazing! The squad itself showed Fong, and Sophie Titterington’s towering
what self-belief can achieve, they pushed and Barney Durrant strength, we went down to the old nemesis.
commitment to display true character! I’m so Bouncing back, we took it to the other group of
proud of them – complete legends! Uni youngsters, with the ever reliably aggressive
Under 11 Hannah Gibbs, and the tenacious Rachel
Pete Hudson
The Under 11 boys were stationed down at the Chan providing a boost. We finished with a
end of Happy Valley for our home festival, the huge victory against the other ‘Club’ folks from
Under 12 - FC1 weather stayed kind and our parent volunteer the SCAA, with a few classmates of our team
pitch monitors (thanks folks) were resplendent on the opposition, Evie Spizzirri was vicious
The Richard Hawkes finals was the competition
in their high-viz vests, clipboards clutched tight in her tackles and uncompromising runs, while
that we had all been waiting for. In the run up
to their chests. This was the last festival for the ever elusive Kelli Kong slipped through
to the competition, we had won four out of the
this group of lads, many of whom have played defences with ease. Look forward to the next
five tournaments and therefore were seeded
together since Under 6 days, as we move to one!
first. However, the season had been much
Richard Hawkes for Under 12 next season
closer than the figures suggest and we had Peter Spizzirri
and so it was important for them to enjoy
fortunately developed a knack of winning the
themselves. They certainly seemed to do that
closer matches. The slightly changed format
meant that there were four pool matches to
and played some rugby along the way to boot. Under 10
The Spartans capped off a fine season with
play. We started slowly against the Macau Bats What a fantastic day of mini rugby was had at
three straight wins (including a comprehensive
and were 1-1 after a couple of minutes but we our own HKFC festival!!!
one over Valley). The Firebirds eased past
managed to pull away with some excellent team
USRC Tigers, couldn’t quite see off Sandy Bay Firstly, I need to say a big thank you to all the
tries to win 5-1. We then took on Sandy Bay
who got a late score to claim a draw but then parents who stepped up to act as officials on
and an excellent display of passing led to some
mysteriously went off the boil to let the other the day, without your support this event would
superb tries, winning 5-1 in the end. Sai Kung
Club Magazine May 2018 25MINI RUGBY
U10 F2 U10 F3
U10 F1
simply not run. As always a big thank you to the
U10 coaches. The final thank you goes to Rich U10 F4 U10 F6
Lingard the organiser of the whole day. Great
job.
Under 9 Teams, three great wins and some happy faces
We really mixed things up for our festival, at the end.
instead of our usual six teams, two each from Another year passed and another fantastic day
the Panthers, Jaguars and Cheetahs, we gave for Rugby. The weather started to be a little dull Next up we saw the A Teams come into
our two Singapore bound teams a chance to in the morning but that soon changed once the play. For this there was one young lad in the
play together. Hence we collapsed the groups teams had warmed up. Buzzards that shone like a light. A true rugby
and created six new ones, two Sing, two Lions player in the making, Leon Delespierre. Wow!
We started the day with the B Teams for once
and two Tigers. As you can imagine most teams can this boy play or what, running from the
and this was a show stopper. Football Club FC4
were a little unsure during their first game, wing to make some crucial tackles just before
Leopards produced some of the best rugby I
but they all grew into every match as the day the try line to stop the opposition from scoring.
have seen for a B Team in all the festivals. With
developed. A true sign of increased maturity Running the full length of the pitch to score
three games in front of them they played as if
from our players. Some great performances some beautiful tries and getting stuck into the
their lives were on the line.
were witnessed, one in particular from FC4 one rucks, great to watch.
of our Singapore teams, the passing and team Players to mention for this tournament and
Worthy mentions must also go to, Jastin Lu,
work was amazing considering they’d really just team: Elliot Munt, Ryan Kar, Adrian Ng all
Silas Torka and Jonathan Law, all played with
been thrown together on the day. outshone the opposition with their drive and
eminence passion and drive for their team. This
passion and tackling. Elliot was the principle try
Well we are nearly at the end of the mini rugby team had the lucky day with four games and all
scorer for this team and this was all through the
season, sometimes they feel long, this U10 with tough opposition, three wins and one draw
hard work of the pack passing the ball out wide
one feels the shortest ever, time has flown this saw there day finish well and to watch was a
to him.
year. Rather than fill the rest of our page with great enjoyment.
more rugby chat, I’ve decided to fill it with team Also, special mention to Jayden Ong and
Over all the rugby standard has improved
photos. Please ask your child to see if they can Marcus Norris who drove deep to gain the
100% since the first festival, referee standards
spot themselves. momentum to push each team back and
commanded by chief Referee Paul Murphy
eventually getting the ball out to the wing and
Chris Hattam was outstanding and very well run. Consistency
young Elliot. The games were all intense and full
across the games was well kept and I thought
of passion which capped a great day for the B
the whole standard was amazing.
A huge thank you to all the U9 coaches for the
help in setting up the show and running it like
clockwork.
Also, to those parents that helped through the
day especially the hotter queen Elise, and no
she doesn’t work in a bar…….
To Richard and Evan for their set up of the
event and to Chairman Denis for the support for
the Mini Rugby section.
Thanks to all,
U9 U9
Robin Zavou aka CHEF
26 May 2018MINI RUGBY
Under 8 award for Best Dressed, mentioned as he was By the last game of the day the players were
in one coach’s report for having arrived at the alert, motivated and focused on keeping the
The Under 8s were afforded a novel change
tournament in a red velvet blazer and “showing defensive line, passing the ball quickly, closing
of scene during our home tournament by
a touch of class for the home tournament”! the space in defence and moving forward in
playing on the newly-opened Pitch 1 behind
attack. With both defence and offence working
the Club’s south Stand. The sense of occasion Overall it was another fun, successful and well
well, the Cheetahs had a convincing win 6-2 win
provided from hosting the event was not lost organised and run tournament, none of which
against the Aberdeen Dolphins. What was more
on the kids, as they stepped up to make the could have happened without the commitment
impressive was that four different players scored
most of the idyllic conditions and once again and dedication of all the parents who
the tries – namely James Raper, Freddie
put their skills to the test during their three contributed towards the event in every aspect.
Pollard, Thomas Wood (x3) and Viktor
slightly elongated games; for some of the boys A massive, heartfelt thank you to you all!
Schultz; three of these boys had their first tries
it provided the additional challenge of reverting
Chris Guest of the season. That is teamwork and team spirit
back to touch tackling, having embarked on
at its best.
full contact training since the beginning of the
year in preparation for May’s tour to Singapore. Under 7 The other Cheetahs squad, FC5, was
However, it seemed to have benefited them comprised of 11 excellent players, of which
The HKFC Mini rugby tournament was a great
to once again need to think about the other eight scored tries! Sasha Rayton and Jonathan
outing for the U7 Cheetahs. Almost all of the
aspects of the game such as finding space and Wan merit special mention for good defensive
Cheetahs participated in the tournament,
passing, and not just smashing seven bells out work during all three games. It was good team
which is not surprising given that attendance at
of each other! work and spirit and all players deserve credit. It
training has been phenomenal throughout the
was as ever, a fun and active morning of rugby
The Phoenixes reported mixed results during season. The FC6 Cheetahs first game of the
for the kids and for the many parents who came
both their allotted games and the extra ones day was early in the morning and it showed on
to support, many of whom (mums) were very
that they were given to play, but with great the pitch. The players were still waking up, and
engaged from the sideline. In summary it was
performances seen from the likes of Romane conceded a try before anyone really noticed.
another great rugby morning!
Bruneau, whose nimble feet got her across the The Cheetahs took one back with a score by
try line on numerous occasions, Mia Caves Daniel Swemmer, and then conceded again. James Wood/Nick Schultz
and Karin Wong with their support play, Grace The defensive line was not quick to form, but
Cheung with her fearless tackling and Iris the team moved well forward in offence. The
Greenwood with her spatial awareness and game ended 2-2 with Thomas Wood scoring Under 6 Panthers
knack for reading the game. Similarly positive the other try for the Cheetahs. The Panthers had been looking forward to this
performances were observed in the Hawks tournament all year, and with a great response
The second game was against Sai Kung
with their strong defence work that resulted in from the squad, we were able to run out two
Stingrays, and Coach Derek Wyllie took the
countless turnovers, their running forward and competitive teams. FC6 were first out of the box
players to task. A ten minute pre-game talk
passing into space near the opposition’s try line. and as a team where many of the players are
ensured that all players were ready for battle.
In particular, James McSheaffrey stood out for in their first season of rugby, they did us proud
The final result was a convincing 4-2 win for
his solid tackling, and both Anthony Wickens by winning one game against Hong Kong East,
the Cheetahs, with tries from Amy Yu, Liam
and Tom Bailey really turned on the pace for drawing another with SCAA, and narrowly losing
Norman, Silas Tam and Daniel Swemmer.
the event. Matthew Phillipson also took the the third to strong opposition from the Macau
Bats. Special mention to Conor Whybrow who
displayed tremendous enthusiasm, courage
and energy, like an Energizer Bunny, in all
games despite being the smallest player on
the field. FC6 have developed tremendously,
but above all, they’ve all enjoyed their rugby
U7
U7 U7 U6
Club Magazine May 2018 27MINI RUGBY
U6 U6 U6
in the 2017/18 season. FC4 had yet another full seasons undefeated, and to do it on “home The four HKFC U5 teams were led by excellent
outstanding tournament. In game one against turf” made it all the more memorable! coaches, including Jerome Leleu, Paul
Tai Hang Tung, Liam Booth collected from Douglas and Simon Archer-Perkins, to
Daniel Booth
the kick off, stepped twinkle-toe’d through the name but a few of the coaching staff. Special
defensive line and dived over the line. Final thanks to the Parent Pitch Monitors, including
score, 6-0 to Panthers FC4. In the second U5 Grace Baudy, Tony Adams, Gary Howard,
game against Valley the boys were up against Michel Bots, Jorge Martinez, Simon Law and
The HKFC Mini Rugby tournament was only
it when Valley put on two early tries. The team Jen Flowers, who made sure all games ran
the second tournament of the year for the U5s.
regrouped and two pacey tries from Dylan smoothly.
Nonetheless, it was clear that all of the girls
Akandu and a dazzler from Ethan Pimlott saw
and boys were moving in the right direction The teams’ performances clearly bode well.
Club take the match 3-2. The final game saw
(most of the time!) and quickly picking up on the Have a great summer U5s and see you as U6s
FC4 come up against SCAA. Great defense
fundamentals of the game. in September!
from the two wingers, Schyler Tam and Riku
Shiotani saw FC4 run out their final game of the Attendance and team spirit was excellent and James Wood
day 5-2 winners. For Panthers FC4 this was a what is most important was that everyone had
remarkable day – the team have now gone two a lot of fun.
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28 May 2018Soccer News
Message from the Hello all, This month we feature articles on the HKFC
Soccer Captain I hope you have all had a great Easter break.
Citi Soccer Sevens. The Club has two teams
entered into both the main and the vet’s
The soccer season is drawing to a close and the
competitions. Managing the HKFC 1st team
Club has won two titles. Like the top leagues
will be Tony Hamilton-Bram with John Casey
in Europe, this season’s victors have won their
and Stephen Tucker assistants. Danny
respective leagues at a canter. HKFC 1st Team
Beattie and Terry Harris will take charge of
has won the HKFA 1st Division in emphatic
the Captain’s Select for the first time. Mark
style with five wins out of five in March/April
Grainger and Graeme Lane will take charge
putting the league beyond the chasing pack.
of the HKFC Vets team, while Graeme and
Robbie Bacon, Club Wanderers have won the Yau Yee League.
Soccer Section Jan Souleyman will take charge of the Vets
Unbeaten until March it would have taken
Captain Captain’s Select side. It is the highlight of the
a super comeback in the mould of Albion’s
Soccer Section Calendar and we look forward
14 match winning streak in 16/17 season to
to seeing you all down there on 16th to18th
challenge them but Wanderer’s proved too
May.
strong and are deserved champions.
Robbie Bacon
Tables
HKFA 1st Division Yau Yee League
HKFA 2nd Division
HKFA Ladies Division Legal League Legends (Vets)
Photos from HKFC 1st Team’s 7:3 victory over Citizen
Club Magazine May 2018 29SOCCER
HKFC Citi Soccer Sevens
Returns In Style
By Michael Church
D
efending champions Leicester City and newcomers Brighton Manager. “Over previous seasons, the club has enjoyed magnificent
& Hove Albion are among the headline acts as the HKFC Citi success in Hong Kong, notably winning the Cup in 2013 and 2017.
Soccer Sevens prepares to kick off in May.
“As such, we are delighted to be returning to Happy Valley this year to
The three-day event – now in its 19th year – runs from 18th-20th May defend our crown and to compete against some of the most exciting
and features sixteen teams in the Main Event and a further ten in the talent from across the globe.
Masters competition as teams and players from around the world
“Following our success last May, the Development Squad have
converge on Sports Road.
impressed domestically and the opportunities provided by the HKFC Citi
“Once again we’re delighted to unveil a wonderful line-up of clubs for Soccer Sevens are always of an extremely high standard.
this year’s HKFC Citi Soccer Sevens,” says Tournament Director Chris
“The demands of the tournament, its unique format and the challenges
Plowman.
posed all contribute to a thrilling and useful week of competition for our
“We will be welcoming back many old friends while witnessing some young players.”
fresh new talent on the pitch at Sports Road.
Aston Villa are the most successful club in the history of the event with
“We are very pleased to announce that Brighton & Hove Albion will be six title wins, the first coming in 2002. Further victories were achieved
joining us for the first time while reigning champions Leicester City will be in 2004, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2016 before the club missed out on a
back to defend their title and Cagliari will return after making their debut seventh success in last year’s final.
last year.
“We are delighted to have been invited to the Hong Kong Soccer Sevens
“In total six teams from Hong Kong, including two from HKFC, will be again,” says Aston Villa’s Academy Manager Sean Kimberley. “It’s such
joined by teams from England, Scotland, Italy, Japan, Australia and a prestigious tournament which has been part of our club’s development
New Zealand in what promises to be another thrilling HKFC Citi Soccer programme for a long time.
Sevens.”
“We have been very fortunate to have had success in the tournament
The HKFC Citi Soccer Sevens was first held in 1998 and the 2018 over the years, with the most recent being in 2016. Although we fell at
edition represents the 19th running of the tournament after the 2003 the final hurdle last season we will be looking to go one better this time
event was cancelled as a result of the SARS outbreak. round.
Leicester City defeated Aston Villa in last year’s final and the 2016 “More importantly for us, it’s about developing the players. Our history
Premier League champions will be represented again at this year’s and the tournament’s history show a number of players who have gone
event, where they will look to successfully defend the title. onto be Premier League winners and top international players have
represented Aston Villa in this top class international tournament.”
“Leicester City Football Club is looking forward to attending this year’s
HKFC Citi Soccer Sevens,” said Ian Cawley, Leicester City Academy Brighton & Hove Albion, meanwhile, will be making their debut during
30 May 2018SOCCER
a season that has seen the club mark their return to the top flight of “The HKFC Citi Soccer Sevens is a well-run event and we’ve struck up
English football and the club’s academy manager, John Morling, is some great friendships during our previous trips with several members
relishing the challenge he and his players will face at the HKFC Citi of the Hong Kong Football Club and we’re looking forward to our return
Soccer Sevens. in May.”
“Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club are honoured to be invited to the Those sentiments were echoed by Ben Dawson of Newcastle United,
prestigious HKFC Citi Soccer Sevens,” he says. “All the staff and players who missed last year’s competition having won the title in 2012 but who
are looking forward to coming to what will be a brilliant experience both return for the 2018 event.
on and off the pitch.
“We are delighted to once again be invited to participate in the HKFC
“We are looking forward to a totally different experience playing Sevens Citi Soccer Sevens,” says Dawson, who is the Club’s Professional
against some of the world’s best teams, which will benefit our players’ Development Phase Coach.
development in their ambition to become senior professional footballers
“It is a great addition to our games programme and provides our players
in the Premier League.”
with a fantastic opportunity to test themselves against a wide range of
Newcastle United and West Ham United will also travel to Hong Kong, opponents in difficult conditions given the heat, humidity and format of
taking the number of English clubs due to participate to five, while play.
Scottish giants Rangers will participate once more.
“In previous years we have competed well to get to the latter stages of
Also returning are Cagliari Calcio from Italy, who made their tournament the competition and are obviously hoping that this year we can go even
debut last year, while Newcastle Jets, currently lying second in Australia’s further.”
A-League, will make their first appearance along with fellow A-League
Ten teams will also compete in the Masters tournament, which has in the
club Wellington Phoenix from New Zealand who will return to the
past attracted former stars such as ex-Liverpool and Ajax Amsterdam
competition alongside the Singapore Cricket Club.
playmaker Jari Litmanen, former England and Nottingham Forest
The overseas teams will be bolstered by a strong line-up from Hong defender Des Walker as well as ex-England goalkeeper David James.
Kong, with Hong Kong Football Club fielding two teams – HKFC and the
Last year’s event was won by the Citi All Stars, who successfully
HKFC Captain’s Select.
defended their title, and they will return for the upcoming edition, when
Hong Kong Premier League champions Kitchee, who have impressed in they will face off against the returning playonPROS and last year’s
recent weeks with their performances in the Asian Champions League, finalists Wallsend Boys Club.
will also be represented, with the Hong Kong Football Association having
Nottingham Forest Mobsters will be returning to the Master’s competition
a representative side playing as the HKFA Red Dragons. The Yau Yee
along with Singapore Cricket Club Tigers, a Yau Yee League Masters
League Select will also return to the competition.
team, Discovery Bay, Kowloon Cricket Club and the HKFC Masters and
“Having been losing finalists on two occasions and Shield winners from Chairman’s Select.
last year, it is always a hugely enjoyable week for both players and staff
For further information please visit: http://www.hksoccersevens.com/
alike,” says West Ham United academy manager Mark Phillips, whose
team defeated Cagliari in the final of last year’s Shield Competition.
Club Magazine May 2018 31You can also read
