HONG KONG FOOTBALL CLUB APRIL 2011
2011 HKFC Hockey 6s Friday 22nd April and Saturday 23rd April Easter Promotions in the Coffee Shop and Restaurant
kellie@
www.laxtonmarketing. - Games - Kids Entertainment Shows - Photo Opportunities - Food and Beverage Court
Children under 11 are FREE Children under 11 From 2pm to 6pm Main Pitch Family Member and Adult $100 per (There are no other charges on the day) April, 2011 . All completed booking forms must be handed in All completed booking forms must be handed in . Anniversary th - Live Performances on stage - Clowns - Stalls - Face Painting - Balloon Twisting th HOW TO BOOK HOW TO Pre-registration is essential. Booking forms can be found at Reception or online at com at Reception, faxed to 28660887 or emailed to laxtonmarketing.com. Time: Venue: Cost: Please note this is a Member and Member’s family only event. Festivities include:
Saturday 16 HKFC 125
for all the family which is not to be missed! for all the family which
A fun day out full of activities and entertainment activities and entertainment A fun day out full of FAMILY FÊTE FAMILY April 2011
HONG KONG FOOTBALL CLUB
MISSION STATEMENT
Vision: To be recognised as the leading Sports Club in the Territory.
Mission: To deliver quality services on the principles of accountability, consistency and transparency. To develop an organizational culture that recognises the importance of staff contribution and commitment. To facilitate the development and participation of recognised sporting activities.
Values: Being accountable – to communicate, consult and provide information. Living within our means – to plan ahead within available resources. Developing a culture of service – to encourage commitment, integrity, courtesy and responsiveness. Managing for performance – to set the direction and develop the necessary skills.
Aims: To provide the services the Membership needs. To improve the quality of Club life. p.14 p.26 To up-hold the Constitution and Bye-laws. To encourage Members to play their part in the Club. Wallabies Captain Rocky Elsom visits the Club Football legend Pele with Mini Soccer players
General Committee President : Dermot Agnew Vice President : Nick Hunsworth Vice President : James Collins-Taylor Vice President : Bobby Lawson Vice President : Iain Valentine Chairman : Fook Aun Chew The Thoughts of the Chairman...... 2 Hon. Secretary : John Shanahan Hon. Treasurer : David Howell From the Desk of Mark Pawley ...... 2 Sports & Recreation : Lynn Edwards Development : Mark Clift Food & Beverage...... 4 Discipline : Mike Wood Constitutional Affairs : Desmond Ko History...... 10 Membership : Maurice O’Brien Hockey Officer : Fergus McCoig Rugby...... 12 Lawn Bowls Officer : Roger Nissim Rugby Officer : John Molloy Soccer Officer : Martyn Russell Mini Rugby...... 16 Squash Officer : David Reeves Squash...... 20 Management General Manager : Mark Pawley Soccer...... 22 Director of Operations : Tony Sealy Director of Finance : S.K. Li Mini/Junior/Youth Soccer...... 26 Director of Food & Beverage : Dominique Artigolle Executive Chef : Ki Liu Hockey...... 28 Facilities Manager : Evan Tao Membership Services Manager : Kerry Ogle Mini Hockey...... 31 Human Resources Manager : Angela Chan Executive Housekeeper : Lily Huynh Front Office Manager : Shirley Lo Lawn Bowls...... 33 Netball...... 35 Tennis...... 38 Club Magazine Golf ...... 40 Monthly journal of the Hong Kong Football Club. Arranged by Karen Chan-Mulvenna. For information and requests for placement of advertisements in “Club” please call 2830 9503. Books and Movies Library...... 41 The opinions expressed in the articles are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Hong Kong Football Club or the General Committee. The Club reserves the right to edit and clarify all content. The copyright of all materials is held by the Hong Kong Football Club.
Hong Kong Football Club • 3 Sports Road, Happy Valley, Hong Kong • Tel 2830 9500 • Fax 2882 5040 • Website: www.hkfc.com.hk
Club Magazine Apr 2011 1 The Thoughts From the Desk of the Chairman of Mark Pawley
Easter hols are upon us again, and with Rugby Week For those of you that came down to the Club during Rugby successfully behind us, we can now breath a sigh of relief and Week you will likely appreciate how busy we were. We get back down to more normal times at the Club! had record revenues during the period of the Rugby Tens In early March we held a very successful Interactive Sports and Rugby Sevens and a record number of food covers Dinner featuring Damien Hopley, Geoff Miller and Rocky served as well as a number of very nice complimentary Elsom as celebrity speakers. Going forward, this month, as comments from Members and Guests as to how well the part of the 125th Anniversary celebrations, we will be holding Club coped. A big thank you therefore is in order to all our a Family Fête on Saturday 12th April 2011. Children Staff members and Management for the hard work and under 11 get to come in free with Adults and Children effort put in during what has become our busiest week of over 11 charged at $100 each for this extravaganza. But, the year. And “big” congratulations too, are also in order don’t forget you will need to to the three Staff Employees of the Year who are register first by going online photographed on this page. to www.laxtonmarketing.com These are prestigious awards or by picking up a form at (out of a full time staffing of Reception. some 260 employees) and each of the Staff members As always we had a lot of should be commended for visitors to the Club from all over their own personal efforts and the world during Rugby Week achievements throughout the and this year we had Ally and year. Debby MacLeod visiting us from Scotland. Ally is a former With Easter fast approaching, Chairman of the Club and it please take a look at page was good to see him and Debby 4 (overleaf) where all the again in Hong Kong enjoying Easter food and beverage themselves along with many old EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR: “Specials” are outlined. From L to R: Employee of the year (Front of the House) friends at the Club. As ever, please book well in - Nari Lau; Leader of the year - Harry Ling; advance. In the Coffee Shop Employee of the year (Back of the House) Later in the year, we will host a throughout the month, on - Purja Karna Bahadur Cocktail Party for longstanding Friday and Saturday evenings Members who have completed come and try our Macanese 25 years of membership and we Food Corner. So, forget going all the way to Macau just will announce the date in due course. At the Annual General come to the Coffee Shop! Meeting in November last year, the General Committee (GC) were asked whether it would be appropriate and/or necessary For the wine drinkers among you, we will be running a for the Club to consider introducing an Ombudsman in respect “Super Watson’s Wine Fair” Sales Counter from Friday of issues that purportedly could not be resolved internally by 1st April to Monday 2nd May from our normal G/Fl Lobby the Club. This matter was considered by the Policy Working location. And, on Thursday 28th April, we will be hosting the Group and also the GC. It was decided that there is no need to Rhone Valley “Robert Parker 90 Points Plus” Wine introduce such a role as the Club is well served by its current Dinner featuring a 4-course Dinner and 5 specially selected procedures. There was also a query from a Member about the wines. I note the Main Course dish for the Wine Dinner is maintenance of the Ten Pin bowling facilities and the General milk-fed Pyrenees Lamb and this features as the monthly Manager has responded to the Member directly. promotion for the Restaurant in April. See you at the Club! I look forward to seeing you all at the Club! FOOK AUN CHEW MARK PAWLEY Chairman General Manager
2 Apr 2011 Reciprocal Club THE PACIFIC CLUB HAWAII, U.S. A.
1451 Queen Emma Street Honolulu, Hawaii 96813 Phone: (808) 536-0836 Fax:(808) 533-6710 Email: [email protected] Website: www.thepacificclub.org
The Pacific Club is the oldest private club of its kind west of the Mississippi and has certainly evolved over the years. The Club offers the benefits of modern amenities in gracious and accommodating island surroundings. Today, The Pacific Club is a business, family, social, athletic and dining club.
Members are reminded that they can apply for an Introductory Letter from the Membership Services Department and that room bookings should be made by the Members on their own. For more information on reciprocal clubs, please make enquiry at the Club’s Reception or visit our website at http://www.hkfc.com.hk/reciprocal.asp.
Club Magazine Apr 2011 3 Please call the Coffee Shop at 2830 9569 for more details. Please contact the Restaurant at 2830 9562 for a reservation or email: [email protected]
4 Apr 2011 FOOD & BEVERAGE
COFFEE SHOP
THEMED BUFFET IN APRIL: MACANESE FOOD CORNER in the Coffee Shop Fridays and Saturdays from 6.30pm to 9.30pm throughout the month of April There’s no need to trek all the way to Macau when its finest culinary offering will be available at the Coffee shop. Enjoy our weekend buffet dishes like African-style roasted chicken, Portuguese-style whole piglet, roasted quail with herbs and chili and many more…. Please call the Coffee Shop at 2830 9569 for more details.
HIGH TEA SET in the Coffee Shop every day from 3pm to 5.30pm Photos for reference only
The High Tea begins with savoury finger sandwiches. Crusts are removed from freshly baked white and brown breads and the delicate slices are filled with an assortment of smoked salmon, egg, chicken, cream cheese and cucumber. Warm scones arrive next, made from a secret recipe that our Pastry Chef has used for more than 20 years. They are served with glistening homemade jam and Devonshire clotted cream. The final course is the pièce de resistance, the platter of cakes and tartlets, served with tea or coffee.
WINE SALES COUNTER “Super Watson Wine Fair” Friday, 15th April to Monday 2nd May
• large price range, there is something for every wine enthusiast • Daily wine tasting • All wines offered will be better priced than any Watson shops in Hong Kong
OPENING HOURS Ground Floor Lobby Monday to Friday from 12 noon to 9pm Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays from 10.30am to 9pm
Club Magazine Apr 2011 5 6 Apr 2011 FOOD & BEVERAGE
RESTAURANT SUNDAY ITALIAN DINNER BUFFET in the Restaurant every Sunday for dinner throughout the month of April The Sunday dinner buffet takes on an Italian theme this month. It includes a wide selection of antipasti dishes, pastas, seafood, authentic hot dishes, and of course, Italian dessert favourites such as tiramisu and Panne Cotta. $225 per Adult; $128 per Child Please contact the Restaurant at 2830 9562 for reservation or Photo for reference only email: [email protected] BABY LAMB in the Restaurant every evening for dinner (except Sunday) from 6.30pm to 10.30pm throughout the month of April The main attraction this month is the lamb from the Pyrenées (France), a little known region half way between Bordeaux and Spain. The lamb from this region has a unique and subtle flavour without that gaminess so often associated with the meat. They are purely milk-fed and kept indoors with little activity, so the meat is light, tender and mild.
SUNDAY BRUNCH WITH LIVE JAZZ in the Restaurant and CATERING SERVICE Chairman’s Bar The Club has a professional catering service team for Members offering a wide variety of value-added packages every Sunday from 11am to 2.30pm to suit your needs and occasions: Business meeting, throughout the month of April cocktail party, private dinner event, barbeque party or even children’s birthday celebration. Our Popular Sunday Brunch continues in January with a themed For enquiries and bookings call the Catering Office on 2830 musical performance to set the mood. A Jazz duo will get your feet 9513 or email to [email protected] tapping while you enjoy your brunch. $238 per Adult (with sparkling wine) $128 per Child (with soft drinks and chilled juice) Dress Code: Club Casual – No Collarless T-shirts, no Flip Flops, no short Casual Shorts (Knee length – no beach wear). Ladies are required to dress to a comparable standard. Please contact the Restaurant at 2830 9562 for reservation or email: [email protected] Photo for reference only
Club Magazine Apr 2011 7 FOOD & BEVERAGE
CHAIRMAN’S BAR
INTRODUCING ‘AROMASTER’ – A WINE TASTING GAME in the Chairman’s Bar Monday to Saturday nights just got a whole lot more fun ...
AROMASTER is a wine tasting educational tool and a friendly game, designed by professionals as a library of wine smells, combining the 80 most common wine aromas, bouquet and faults found in sparkling, white, red and sweet wines across the globe. The Aromaster kit also includes a wine aroma wheel which lists the world's most famous grape varieties and points out their typical aromas in warm and cool growing conditions. Bring your guests to the Chairman’s Bar to try out this new board game. Players compete on their ability to identify wine aromas by travelling across the wine producing regions of the world. It’s both fun and educational!
OYSTERS WITH SPARKLING WINE IN “WINE-DERFUL” THE EVENING WINE CAROUSEL in the Chairman’s Bar in the Chairman’s Bar every day from 6.30pm to 10.30pm every day from 6pm to 10pm throughout the month of April The Chairman’s Bar is offering a happy-hour special. From 6pm until 10pm daily, you can enjoy 2 hours of free- flowing wines specially selected to match this winter season at a - Get two jet-fresh oysters and a glass of Angove Sparkling set price of $130 per person. Alternatively you can select any for just $98 or two wines for only $68. - 6 oysters and a glass of Angove Sparkling for $100 or All these wines can be purchased from our takeaway list. - 12 oysters and a glass of Sparkling for $190 Forms are available on our website or at Reception. Photo for reference only Photo for reference only
8 Apr 2011 FOOD & BEVERAGE
APRIL IN THE SPORTSMAN’S BAR
Many of you may be recovering from Rugby Week but as usual there is still On the Food and Beverage side: plenty going on, and off the screens in the Sportsman’s Bar! PUB FOOD MONTH On the Big Screen Our Culinary team has recreated classic pub food in your Sportsman’s Bar, from Stilton and Beef Pie, In rugby, after the 6 Nations, the emphasis switches to the Super 15s, Bangers and Mash with a Twist, Fish Cake with the Aviva Premiership, The Magners League, Amlin Challenge Cup Creamy Coleslaw and many more…our Chef has and Heineken Cup with live games continuing on Friday evenings and prepared several dishes to please everyone. Saturday afternoons/evenings. In soccer, English Premier League action heats up as the season draws to a close with some great games to watch out for on the Big Screen, including: - Saturday 9th April: Chelsea vs Wigan and Man Utd vs Fulham - Saturday 17th April: Man City vs Tottenham - Saturday 23rd April: Man Utd vs Everton - Sunday May 1st: Arsenal vs Man Utd Mark the dates for the F1 races this month: Malaysian Grand Prix, Sepang: 8th - 10th April Chinese Grand Prix, Shanghai: 15th -17th April In tennis, the ATP Monte-Carlo Tennis Rolex Masters will be played from 11th to 17th April. In golf, the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club is from 7th to 10th April. Photo for reference only
FAMILY POOL PARTY with Monster Inflatable Friday 29th April from 6.30pm to 10.00pm $228 per Adult; $148 per Child (age 3-12)
Make the most of the first Pool Party of the season!
On Friday 29th the inflatable will be in the pool from 6.30pm to 10pm. Guests are welcomed and a buffet will be available from served from 6.45pm to 9.15p.m)
This is a booking event and the Poolside will only be “open” after 6.30pm on the day of the event to Members (and their guests) who have booked. The pool will be closed to non-participants from 5.30pm onwards.
Please book early to avoid disappointment.
Please contact Kenny on 2830 9504 or email: [email protected] for reservations.
Club Magazine Apr 2011 9 HISTORY
1886-2011 OLD DOG of a CLUB
For most of its first century, the Hong Kong Football Club had a prominent notice inside or at the door of its Main Bar prohibiting dogs on the premises. There is eye-witness testimony, however, that canines were privileged to be given front position on the sign ahead of ‘ladies’ or ‘women.’ Considering the Club milestones achieved and progress made during the Year of the Dog – not restricted to 1886 when the HKFC was founded – it might be considered unjust that the Club mascot remains a Dragon. Over 125 years it is, without a doubt, the Dog that has proven to be Club’s Best Friend. A vintage Club Dragon badge
a practice match) indicates that the footballers know a little about bowls.’ The skips for the HKFC fours were F.H.W. Haynes Sr, J. Russell and H. Gregory. Most BELOW: of the Club bowling personnel From the China Mail on Saturday, were employees of the Public 28 April 1934. Works Department, and this included the Scots quartet – Robertson, Shaw, Carter and Graver – who earlier that year had donated the Blarney Stone Shield as a prize for the end-of- season Rugby Sevens. They had watched as the Bank promptly took the Shield away, defeating Club 11-10 in the final. That same Saturday night, after the first round of League
An interpretation by Gavin Coates, according to its reputation, of the HKFC Bar circa 1920 in the original mat-shed Pavilion – with the infamous warning popular with chauvinist Members on the wall facing the entrance. (See page 51 of ‘along the sports road.’)
1934 – Year of the Wood Dog It was a heady moment in 1934 in the Year of the Dog – fittingly, the Wood Dog – when the first League jack was rolled over the pristine surface of the HKFC’s newly-laid bowling green. The League Fours competition began on Saturday, 28 April 1934, with nineteen teams from twelve clubs competing in two divisions. The ten teams in the Junior Division had been ‘augmented by the entry of the Football Club,’ proclaimed the China Mail. HKFC’s first opponents, playing away on the Ming Yuen green at North Point, were Hongkong Electric. ‘It will be interesting to see how (HKFC) fare against the Electric,’ a different press scribe suggested, ‘this being their league debut. Their win against the Yacht Club last Saturday on two rinks (in
10 Apr 2011 HISTORY
official League Fours match had at long last been contested on the HKFC’s new green, and Club found itself bottom of the Junior Division ladder. Dog of a bowls season so far, and that’s how it continued. Defiance of imagination The Chinese almanac rolls along on a sixty-year cycle of twelve animals times five elements (gold or metal, water, wood, fire and earth). The coincidence of the Dog in HKFC’s history is amplified by the sixty years, one full cycle, that separated the Club’s original founding in 1886 and its rebirth after the Pacific War in 1946. The Fire Dog has thus been especially benevolent to the HKFC. In the Year of the Gold Dog, in 1970, the HKFC Squash Section was formed. In 1982, the Year of the Water Dog, a negative occurred that, retrospectively, could be dressed up as a blessing in disguise. The Hong Kong Rugby Sevens was removed from the Club Stadium to the Government Stadium in So Kon Po, thus allowing Fours had been contested, the HKFC Annual Dinner was held the HKFC stands to be demolished, something their condition in the Gloucester Hotel to register the football season’s end. Club demanded. Redevelopment plans in the form of a Sports Complex President Sir Henry Pollock gave no space to lawn bowls in his christened Lockhart Hall were drawn up, and the vistas of the speech. The papers on the Monday revealed ‘the newcomers were Club began to grow. In 1994, another Year of the Wood Dog, heavily defeated by 41 shots’ (77-36). Adding insult to the drubbing the topping-out of the superstructure for today’s Clubhouse was was the presence in the HEC side of Reg Butler, who in 1965 a milestone in the HKFC’s complete redevelopment. Members would become the HKFC’s first full-time Manager. It was a dog of looked on in awe from their temporary lodgings in the Jockey Club a start for Club’s third designated sport. as a Hong Kong Football Club that was in defiance of imagination took shape. Cats, canines and China ponies Of the Club’s five original designated sports, four have their start The following Saturday, the Club bowlers stepped onto the in the Year of the Dog. The Hockey Section is the exception, being KCC’s own newly re-laid green, and defied the pundits with a set up in 1962, a non-Dog year – and for thirty years, as a penalty 68-55 victory. On 12 May, HKFC played away at IRC and lost perhaps, had to play home games off-site on the Race Course 64-56. Two more defeats followed, both on the neighbouring infield or at So Kon Po, the old Club football pitch being adjudged Valley greens of the Civil Service Cricket Club (59-49) and dangerously uneven. In 2006, the Fire Dog scored again, with the the Police Recreation Club (64-54). The HKFC’s first long- opening of the Ten Pin Bowling Complex on the Clubhouse’s 1st anticipated home League Fours match was scheduled for Floor and formation of the HKFC Bowling Interest Group. When Saturday, 2 June – versus hot rivals Craigengower. The banter it comes to new games with larger balls at the Club, after 125 years and bets laid across the fence during the week before the the Old Dog still has it licked. historic showdown need no imagination. (There had been mid- By Denis Way week bowls matches allocated to the HKFC green during May, these being early ties in the Open Singles and Pairs and Open Rinks competitions. But football was still getting in the way of ‘Blackie’ the Club the lawn-bowlers at the Club, with one of the Open matches Watchdog – much loved being displaced by a game between an HKFA XI and a visiting but never feared by Members of the 1970s. Japanese Olympic Soccer squad.) Anti-climax, that was Saturday, 2 June 1934. C.B. Robertson, cursing from the same Club Bar he had built six years earlier – as the rain started right on 3:00 p.m. when the bowlers were taking their positions, and did not let up – would have deemed it a dog-day afternoon through the bottom of his beer mug. Cats and canines metaphorically fell on the precious Club grass laid on ground that until recently had been trampled by China ponies. The complete League round had to be cancelled. The next Saturday, the Club hosted the Yacht Club. A skip for the visitors, advised the Friday press, was the Acting Governor, Sir Wilfrid Thomas Southorn – the VIP to whom Robertson had handed the ceremonial gold key in 1928 after he declared the HKFC Clubhouse open. But Southorn did not play; his stand- in skip presided over a 56-54 win for the Yachtsmen. The first
Club Magazine Apr 2011 11 Rugby News Captain’s Message
inally the season draws to a close and we sign off for the 2010 / 2011 season. Club Grand Finals Day confirmed their status as the most consistent team throughout the season and picked up Fthe League Title for Division 1. A hard fought season by all, lead by the Horse who can be seen below collecting the silverware for the league title.
Peter Tattersall Rugby Section Drags, also in the same league, managed an amazing Captain joint 5th with Causeway Bay, which we believe to be the highest finishing place for a club 2nd team in div 1 – well done boys, great effort and desire throughout the season, compared to Valleys 2nd string side Valley Black, we showed the strength and depth the club has and grunt to step up a league. Although the direction of the Drags is unclear, whether they will stay in Division 1 or drop back down to Division 2, I am sure wherever they end up playing, come the start of the 2011 / 2012 Grand Finals day was one of the quieter days for season, opposition will continue to moan that is was a hard day at the office. a long while for the Club. The main absence being Club who were knocked out of the competition the previous week with a shock home defeat to DEA Tigers, who were unfortunate to end up losing to Valley in the final. Sequins and Bulls were both on parade and we managed 1 out of 2, with the Bulls winning 18-3 against a stacked Valley team. Some comments from Michael Flaherty: The Bulls left the Club on Saturday, on a bus packed with players, fans, and family members. There was a nervous confidence in the air amongst the 22 Bulls. The team hadn't lost a game since January, and yet it Stephen “Horse” Nolan being presented the Div was ten years before the last Bulls squad saw a grand 1 cup by Andrew Sum, a director of the HKRFU championship. At 2:00pm, Coach James Riordan called in the 22 to have a quick chat to start getting them in the right frame of mind. Having said a few choice (profane) words I left Elmo off to take the usual warm up. As the buildup developed, the Bulls A happy 1st team coach enjoying become focused and understood what was about to the celebrations. happen. Valley would come out strong and fast. This Guy Payne: “Will he? Will he? Will he? …… is a legendary rivalry. YES he will, BUFFALOOOOOOOO!!!!!” From the opening whistle, everybody tackled and tackled hard. Bobby "The Destroyer" Dimatteo left a number of quivering Valley body's in his wake. After attacking inside Valley's 22, Leslie Cheung came off the pitch with blood gushing from his face. He stayed until the game was in hand, a tourniquet wrapped around his head. Captain Elmo said at the beginning that defense would win us the game. And it did. In the first 35 minutes, at least 30 of those minutes were spent in our 22. For 10 plus minutes, Valley was inside our 5 meter line.
A great team effort!
12 Apr 2011 RUGBY
Taipans Rugby - Saturday 9th April
Rugby Section celebrates the Club’s 125th Club President, Dermot Agnew's, team. The Anniversary with a full day of games and a game will kick off at 6:30 on Saturday 9th April Taipan's Fixture on Saturday 9th April. (two weeks after the 7's) down at the Club. All members and families from the Section (or Since just after the Second World War it had formerly with the Section) are encouraged to been traditional for a senior business figure attend. The game will involve many of the best in Hong Kong, The Taipan, to host a game rugby players in Hong Kong and be played in a of rugby between a team he selected and a Barbarians style. team selected by the Commander of British Chris Pratt, Forces. The last game of this type was held in Prior to the Taipan's fixtures there will be a Taipan 2011 the mid 90's and it normally involved the best 30 number of special games between Minis and players in the Colony at the time. Youth teams to celebrate 125 years of rugby football at the Hong Kong Football Club. This year the Rugby Section is proud to revive the Taipan's Fixture where Christopher Pratt, Save the date for a great day of rugby, traditions, CBE, current Chairman of both Swire and old friends and new. Cathay Pacific, will form a team to play our own
Mike "Silverware" Worthy had to be subbed off as he could Young Flynn pulled off an individual try by chipping over the not feel his neck after 25 minutes of fierce scrummaging against oncoming Valley defence when inside the Bulls half only to catch a massive Valley pack. Jimmy "The Dog" Chan came on and the ball and run it to score under the post and to convert - Bulls Gary Yeung went to Prop. The Bulls prevented THREE tries in were now 18 to 3 up with about 8 minutes to go! the last 10 minutes of the half. The support from the sidelines was Rian "the King" Howlet came on for Flash. Richard immense. With every stop, the crowd erupted. Valley settled for a Chambers came on for James Bragg. All 22 Bulls were now on penalty kick to end the half. the pitch! That defensive stand appears to have broken Valley's resolve. Valley tried to break our line once again but Bulls were resolute. They came out flat in the second half, and we capitalised. No way were Valley scoring and ruining a great victory. Yan Valley kicked off to Bulls , who immediately marched down the "smallest man on the pitch" cut in two the Valley flanker pitch. Young Flynn "Mullet-Mat " Kennedy kicked TWO who stood at 6' 4"! After 8 minutes of extra time the ref blew the swift penalties to bring the score to 6 to 3. Conrad Wong was whistle . BULLS WIN! subbed for Andy "Fandy" Goodall who I think was still asleep A big thanks to all who participated throughout the year to help us after just finishing a night shift - based on his first line out throw. get to and win the Grand Final. Fandy soon made amends as he woke up pretty quickly. Mike "Silverware" Worthy announced his retirement at the Gary Yeung scored a well worked try by the forwards after end of the game, which was followed by the chant of "One More rucking their way from half way to the goal line. Conversion Year! One more year!" Several players took Mongo's scissors and missed but Bulls went on top , getting better and better…… held true to a promise by The Mullet Man. If the Bulls won, the score 11 to 3. party on the back of his head was coming to an end. Sure enough, Tom Deluca was subbed off for Simon "Johno" Johnston - after several snips, the locks were strewn across the King’s Park Bulls kept firing. tryline, along with champagne bottles and empty San Miguels.
Club Magazine Apr 2011 13 RUGBY
Rocky Elsom pays a visit to Sports Road
Rocky Elsom: The Sevens looks like a lot of fun and is a bit much but the Tens sounds alright and is probably more suited for me.
Liversidge: Where are the top spots for Australian team tours for the players?
Elsom: Africa is the most fun. New Zealand can be fun, but not when we go there. You’re in the cities and when you go down the street they let you know how good their team is and how lucky you are to be playing them. You’d be lucky to get away from the stadium with your shirt still on. But a lot of the guys really enjoy going to Africa. The approach to regulation in Africa means you can do more things than in other places. Last year when we played Springboks we went out shark diving with cages and the Great White Sharks.
Liversidge: Sounds like a good destination for a Vandals tour next year. Looking ahead to the World Cup based on current form who do you think are going to be the front runners? ocky Elsom, Australian Wallabies Captain and with a reputation as Elsom: The front runners are obviously going to be the world’s best blindside flanker, New Zealand given it is in New Zealand. From the spent a weekend with Hong northern hemisphere England are going to be the RKong Football Club players, sponsors and big threat from the north. Of course France is New supporters celebrating 125 years of rugby. It Zealand’s big threat. The problem with France is they can beat New Zealand and New was a packed couple of days on 6th and 7th Zealand can go onto win the World Cup, they can’t knock them out as per every other March for Elsom who coached Mini Rugby World Cup. I’d like to think we will do pretty well. A lot of the preparation will be done players, socialised with Senior Section players during the Super Rugby because we don’t have much time to get together after that. The and sponsors at a BBQ and was the guest preparation during the Tri Nations isn’t very long this year with just a home and away. I’d speaker at an Interactive Sports Quiz Dinner like to think we do pretty well this year but these things just don’t happen by themselves. along with Damian Hopley, former England Liversidge: Who stands out as the best players in the world at the moment and will player, and Geoff Miller, former English be stand out performers in the World Cup? cricketer and now Chairman of Selectors. At the BBQ, Elsom participated in a Q&A session Elsom: If you like at the guys like Richie McCaw and Daniel Carter they are very on stage hosted by Mark Liversidge where good. Brian O’Driscoll is another one. I’ve played with him a lot and know his game, he he disclosed it was his third visit to Hong Kong, continues to do freakish things. If you look at some of the French guys they are brilliant the prior two times for the Bledisloe Cup as a but they can be a bit unreliable. It’s no wonder New Zealand are going to be the player as well as spectator, but had not yet had favourites as they have the most reliable players in the world. a chance to take part in the Sevens due to it clashing with the Australian rugby season. Hamstring and collar bone injuries were preventing him from putting on the boots so far for the Australian Super Rugby season but which meant he had some time to visit the Club. Edited extracts from their discussion:
Mark Liversidge: So after professional retirement we can expect you to have a run out in the GFI HKFC Tens and entertainment at the Sevens?
14 Apr 2011 Club Magazine Apr 2011 15
PrintAd_R4_210x287mmH.indd 1 03/17/11 10:57:55 AM Mini Rugby News
The Largest Rugby Tour ever!
with three hard fought wins and some silverware to bring back to the Club - although it was with some reluctance our captain collected the “modestly The largest tour ever for the Rugby Section took sized” trophy. place in February. With nearly 300 players and parents, Hong Kong Football Club Mini Rugby The U13s had a great tour going through the first day undefeated. dispatched competitive squads and a strong Opposition got tougher on day two however and we were unfortunately spirit together with the blue and white hoop shirts knocked out in the Cup semi final, eventually finishing as runners up in the to the Bintang Rugby Club International Rugby Plate Final. 10s in Kuala Lumpur. A special guest was David The two days of very competitive rugby definitely took its toll and we were Campese, capped by the Australian Wallabies scrambling to pull teams together for the Cup semi final and the Plate final 101 times and considered one of the greatest but the boys who played gave it their all and were only narrowly defeated in rugby wingers in the history of the game, who both games by a single try. accompanied the Football Club players. “It was an amazing tour with some great rugby played Throughout the tournament boys played well and ended with a winning by all teams,” said Mini Rugby Chairman Kevin record: played 10, won eight, lost two. Taylor. “Players were very fortunate to be able to A great sociable tour, well organised, great team spirit with lots of coaches spend some time with Campo who was generous and parents making the trip. Roll on 2012! with advice and tips. The competitive standard of the Bintang tournament is growing every year. Martin Worley The traditional Hong Kong-Singapore rivalry was keener than ever this year as Football Club had touring sides hungry for wins. We will take Under 12s even stronger teams next year while continuing At the end of the first day’s play, FC Blues had scored 25 tries to no reply to focus on having a great time on tour.” At a over four matches with FC Reds recording 3 wins and one loss. This meant dinner hosted by the Club, Campese told players, that when the teams arrived for play on Sunday morning, they discovered coaches and parents: “I watched some very that FC Blues were ranked first of the 15 teams in the competition and good rugby. I was quite surprised at the standard FC Reds sixth. Blues’ first day try-haul came from positive attacking rugby of competition. I tried to get around to all of the against teams from the Anglo Chinese School, Bintang, SK Danau Kota, games. The most important thing is: they are kids. and Tanglin. Free flowing attacks were combined with resolute defence They should go out and have fun.” resulting in both forwards and backs getting on the score sheet. Reds’ best game of the first day was against the Peninsula Barbarians from Centaurs. Reds spent much of the game camped on their own line, however Ryan Burlage relieved the pressure by taking the ball deep in his own half and Under 14s and Under 13s sprinting the length of the field to score the winning try. Reds’ only defeat U14 Colts were invited to join the mini rugby tour to Kuala Lumpus and we took a touring party of 30 players. Confidence was high in both the U13 and U14 teams with old rivals Tanglin RFC and Bintang RFC both attending. The U14s were drawn against 3 local school teams and Tanglin in their qualifying group. They were soon given a lesson in tough, uncompromising rugby by the local Malay schools, drawing our first game 0-0 and losing our second 22-15. A win over Tanglin and a second win over our final opponents wasn’t good enough to get us into the cup finals. A disappointing set of results put us in the Saucer competition - a trophy title that did not sit well with players, parents or coaches! Day two turned out better than the previous day’s results UnderThe Under 12s touring squad
16 Apr 2011 MINI RUGBY
Under 11 Cup Winners Under 11 Bowl Winners on day one was against Tanglin 2, who were defence in the final. The forwards kept final of the Cup where they conceded their the eventual Plate winners. working hard and eventually our backs only try of the tournament, late on in the The second day saw Blues advance to the got around the SKS defence, and the final game, which resulted in Tanglin taking the Cup Final by beating Public Barbarian’s 4-0 result of 4 tries to 0 showed great finishing Cup and Hornet the runners-up medal. in the Quarter and Anglo Chinese 3-0 in in a game which was quite even for the first It was an exhausted but proud team that the Semi Final. The Anglo Chinese game three quarters. came hobbling off the pitch having given was a bruising encounter. On a number their all over the two days of competition. The stats for the Hurricanes in terms of occasions, their charging forwards were They scored some sparkling tries and of points scored in nine matches was a held up on the Blues line by stoic young played most of the tournament encamped phenomenal 204 points for, 5 against. men who absorbed wave after wave. Their near the opposition’s try line thanks to defensive determination was rewarded by No one individual can be named as player relentless pressure exerted in defence. In two slick tries from Jack Robinson and a of the tournament as all 12 team members the end it was just too much to ask of 10 Ben Main solo. Meanwhile, Red’s were played very well over the weekend. Credit kids who had played each game without a experiencing stiff competition in their Cup to Merv, Steve and Brendan, who rest and plenty more subbing for our other quarter-final against Centaurs and against coached the Hurricanes, taking them one teams, compared to their competition who Tanglin 2 in their Bowl Semi Final. Club’s step further than our previous tours, and had half a team more in reserve. final two games were Blues vs Tanglin 1 in toppling the Tanglin domination of our Stampede also made the Cup stage of the Cup Final and Reds vs Bintang in the age group in KL. the competition and visibly improved Shield Final. Unfortunately, neither team For the Crusaders, a tough first day in in organisation and team play as the prevailed, with injuries and heat stroke a strong group, where the team lacked tournament progressed over the two days. taking their toll. After two year’s of winning some belief in tackling big runners, and Libby Moser fearlessly led the team the Plate, coming runners-up in the Cup saw them win two and lose three to finish with some gutsy performances against competition reflects progress in our training, sixth in the group – just above the cut some tough competition in what was coaching and focus. All players returned to off for the Saucer competition. But after undoubtedly the harder half of the draw. Hong Kong smiling with stories that will being knocked out of the cup by HKFC only grow over time. But it was the commitment and never say Hurricanes, in a keenly contested match, die attitude of each and every Raider, David Bruce the Crusaders went onto to secure the Bowl which most epitomised the improvement beating two strong sides - Tanglin and shown by all our tourists over the Selangor in the semi and final. The second tournament. Playing against arguably some Under 11s day matches marked a visible development of the most aggressive teams, they all grew U11s enjoyed an exceptional tour weekend of all 12 Crusaders players over the in stature and by the end each played their in Kuala Lumpur - both Hurricanes (1st weekend. Strong showings by key players heart out, chasing down the opposition team) and Crusaders (2nd team) taking motivated others, and all players by Sunday eager to make the tackle. home their respective trophies (Cup and were “stopping a man a day” - which made Bowl) after epic Semis and Finals. Superb the difference with many enhancing their performances all round. reputation in the process. For the Hurricanes, the highlights on Russell Henderson day one were classy ball handing and spectacular tries, although the group stages opposition was not the strongest. For day Under 10s two, the competition was ramped up and Hornet were ranked first out of the 12 we saw something essential for a successful teams in the competition after the first team - tremendous grit and determination, day’s round robin competition, having won both when trailing in the semi, and whilst all of their games without conceding a try. weathering the early Sai Kung pressure They kept up that record all the way to the Under 10s Cup runners up
Club Magazine Apr 2011 17 MINI RUGBY
All of the U10’s in each team did the Football Club proud off the opposition and redeemed the previous defeat by the same by their performances but if there was one individual who team of 5-0. The Bulls earned the Bowl runner-up title! particularly warrants a mention it is the quiet man and unsung The tour ended with a kangaroo court session with warm hero of Hornet, who for his grafting and ball winning, my MVP tomato juice, laughter and three cheers for an excellent tour. of the tour, Justin McCarthy. The tour wouldn’t have been so rewarding without the help of Alastair Murray coaches and parents. My appreciation to Ping Lam, Brent York and Jon Phelps for their flawless organisation and taking charge of the two teams. Under 9s We had a brilliant weekend - the parents and children had great fun. David Cheung With a nine-strong squad, the U9s had a baptism of fire playing Sai Kung firsts, Centaurs’ firsts and then Tanglin firsts….in the first three games. They however stood up to be counted and lost only 2-0 to Sai Under 7s Kung (the eventual Cup Winners), lost 4-0 to Tanglin and to Centaurs (the Cup other finalist). Our team played remarkably well considering the strength of the opposition and the 12-minute games. From then onwards the U9s picked up tremendously and defeated Bintang 5-0 and 4-0, drew with DEA 3-3 and lost narrowly to RSC 2-1 and 1-0 respectively to just lose out on the Saucer. In terms of performance Ben, Jasper, Chloe and Tom played really well and fought like tigers out on the pitch, the big lads Alex and Lincoln punched well above their weight, Roderick and Euan did well on the hooking side, Yogi really threw himself into the game and really started to get about in the last two games. The tourists all played their hearts out. Lynda Coggins did a great job coordinating the activity between the parents, kids and coaches. All in all a great weekend. Under 7 Plate Winners It was the first time the U7s had sent a team on tour and the Kevin Taylor squad of eight players proudly returned to Hong Kong with silverware for the Club as Plate winners. The first day of play on Under 8s their first ever tour proved challenging with hot, humid conditions The U8s entered two teams: Bulls and Eagles. Each player was in balmy Kuala Lumpur a dramatic change from cold, rainy designated with tour names of Ben 10 monster characters while Hong Kong. The strong competitive spirit of the tournament Adults were given responsibilities ranging from Tour Mayor, Tour with teams also coming in from Singapore was very different Judge to Tour Police Officer. to the lower-key friendly rivalry of Hong Kong mini rugby festivals. Two significant differences in rules also proved initially Over the weekend the coaches were extremely proud of both challenging – strict enforcement by referees of the requirement teams and their achievements. They all grew in statue over the for defending players to move back three metres after each weekend in terms of commitment and standard of rugby. Most of tackle plus turnover of the ball after six tackles. However, the all, our smiles index was off the chart! youngest players on tour quickly adjusted to the changes in Eagles: Plate winner climate, atmosphere and rules by posting wins on the board in the Having only lost one match, the team went into the qualifying afternoon. The team grew to relish the more open game, which Cup semi-final ending 2-2 which put us into a four-minute sudden was fostered by the rules. A series of victories on Sunday morning death “extra time”. The heat and dehydration got to the team propelled the U7s into the Plate finals and 10-5 victory over local but we all stacked it in for a few minutes. After a few exchanging side, Royal Selangor Club. With seven games over two days in balls and lost opportunities for tries, the opponents scored the sweltering conditions, the coaches and parents were tremendously “golden try” which put us into the Plate round. Our dedication, proud of the spirit, effort and technical skills of the Hong Kong good defence, teamwork and subsequent wins led us to become the tourists. official Plate Winner for the tournament. Well done! Oscar won admiration from a number of referees with spirited Bulls: Bowl runner up tackling, his trademark defensive moves similar to a cruise missile Having won an earlier game and drawing with two other teams in flight prevented the opposition from scoring more than a few put Bulls into the Bowl final. In the first leg of the play-offs, the times and a number of charges he made for the try line helped team had a 2-2 draw, leading to another sudden death “extra the team gain vital ground. Freddy launched spirited runs, time”. The “unlucky” mojo carried on and the opposition scored finding gaps in the defensive lines that opened up play, and was a “golden try” which put the team into the Bowl final. Going into all over the ball in attack as well as other teams’ players in the the Bowl final playing a very tight team, Bulls were able to hold off tackles. Sarah provided strong attacking play, particularly near 1-1 until the final minutes when a try was scored from the other the try line with numerous fearless charges forward. Thalia team. Although we lost the final, the team was cheering as it held provided plenty of pace when running the ball up and was
18 Apr 2011 MINI RUGBY busy building a wall of defence whenever the other side had possession of the ball. Jyoji focused on putting in some solid runs up the middle, identifying gaps in the defensive lines and generally solid passing. Seb had some great attacking runs and utilized good side steps with devastating effect. Ashton put in some fantastic tackles and had some huge runs. Leighton was an invaluable contributor with his uncanny ability to find gaps in the defensive line and zig zag his way through speedily. Christian provided extremely effective defence, some great breaks when on the attack and solid all-round play. Back at the hotel, the team’s energy continued to flow for a few fun hours in the pool. Andrew Abernethy, Robin Bredbury and Glenn Schloss
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Club Magazine Apr 2011 19 Squash News
HKFC Squash World Cup 2011 Saturday 26th February 2011
n 26th February the Football Club because India had done enough…. came alive with World Cup fever; The Scots would like to tell you that they put up Play was frantic 64 players representing 8 countries a tough fight all afternoon, but team India were gathered to play the annual running with red faces never once disturbed from their pedestal, finishing Oteams tournament. The event has both a scratch in 1st place after every round throughout the entire and Friday and a handicap competition, and was contested tournament, accumulating 582 points to Scotland’s by teams representing China, Hong Kong, India, night hangovers 524 and China’s 503. Allegations of match fixing Malaysia, Australia, England, Scotland and were not entertained. being admirably Europe. Notable point scorers were Guy Norman - dealt with; but the Play was frantic with red faces and Friday night Scotland (89 points), Amarik Khosa - India (87 hangovers being admirably dealt with; but the lower order players points) and Malcolm Kerr - Scotland (83 points). lower order players would have it no other would have it no way. India, Hong Kong and England vied for The results in the Handicap Event could not other way. the top spots in the early games before Scotland have been more different with China (643 points), emerged as a key contender to India. At the England (634 points) and Hong Kong (623 points) death, Malcolm Kerr emulating William taking the top three positions, and India (610 Wallace in squash whites was heard to shout “they points), Europe (603 points) and Scotland (601 can never take our freedom”! Sadly he was wrong points) bringing up the rear.
FINAL STANDINGS
Position Team Total Points Top Points Scorers (Normal) 1 India 582 Name Team Points 2 Scotland 524 Guy Norman (2) Scotland 89 Amarik Khosa (0) India 87 3 China 503 Malcolm Kerr (0) Scotland 83 4 Hong Kong 497 Kalpesh Doshi (4) Malaysia 76 5 Malayia 465 Rajesh Nihalani (2) India 74 6 Australia 403 Simon Ng (1) China 73 7 England 389 Rajesh Mulchand (0) India 73 8 Europe 372 Eashwar Krishnan (0) India 67
20 Apr 2011 SQUASH
HANDICAP FINAL STANDINGS
Position Team Total Points (Handicapped) Top Points Scorers (Handicapped) 1 China 643 Name Team Points 2 England 634 Kalpesh Doshi (4) Malaysia 104 3 Hong Kong 623 Jason Gooch (4) England 104 Emma/Andy (6) Australia 103 4 Australia 620 Guy Norman (2) Scotland 103 5 Malaysia 612 Steve Gollop (3) Hong Kong 92 6 India 610 Colin Owen (5) England 89 7 Europe 603 Rajesh Nihalani (2) India 88 8 Scotland 601 Simon Ng (1) China 80
Without Regina McNamara blowing her whistle and Neil Roberts chasing the teams from court to court we would not have made it to the bar in time for prize giving – thank you both very much. Special thanks go to Tournament Convenor, Dave Murray, for his skillful calculations and sneaky handicapping system, which only an Irishman could devise such that the top two teams in the main draw end up in the bottom three in the handicap event!! A brilliant afternoon with great support from all the members.
HKFC International 3's Squash Competition and the Squash Section's End of Season Party 10th to 12th June 2011 Save the date for the Squash Section's special 125th Anniversary event - the annual International 3's Competition, featuring a number of well known squash pros and other top players from across the region. Arrangements are currently being finalised, but watch this space for more information on this exciting event. The competition will start on Friday 10th June and will finish with a prize-giving brunch party on Sunday 12th June.
The Squash Section's End of Season party is the same weekend, and is booked for Saturday 11th June - more details to follow, but mark your diaries for now.
Club Magazine Apr 2011 21 Soccer News
Neil Jensen Captain’s Corner
There’s no such thing as a dull moment in the Soccer Section as we enter the final month of the season. In the FRANCIS: It’s Theo Walcott HKFA, we have the 1st team and Lucky Mile fighting GROWLER: No, it’s definitely Lewis Hamilton for survival in their respective divisions. Both teams have TERRY: Hmm, if Rocky goes with Hamilton, will this be difficult tasks ahead of them but will give their all for the the average opinion or the median? ROCKY: How did I end up with this shower? cause I’m sure. In the Yau Yee League, with just a few games to go and the league season ending on the 1st of May, Albion and Wanderers Wanderers are still in the mix for the league title, with New management, new players, new season, renewed optimism but still derbies galore during the month. Hopefully you are the same dodgy start to a season for current Yau Yee League Champions reading this in time for the Albion vs Wanderers game on HKFC Wanderers. Three losses in the first seven games had Bavo and the 3rd April at 4.30pm. Also confirmed is that the two Craney contemplating why they ever took the management role from will meet in the Yau Yee League Cup Final on the 22nd Growler in the first place. Rumours of the duo being odds-on favourites of May; therefore silverware is guaranteed for the Section. at the Jockey Club to be the first managerial (possibly the quickest?) casualties of the season proved unfounded, as good early goal scoring The Colts face a testing month and whilst Bobby form from Pete Robinson, Andy Bratsanos, Mark Hulbert and Lawson’s boys are outside of the relegation places, they skipper Terry Harris helped steady the ship and keep Wanderers play all of the top teams this month. just outside the top three with 4 wins to match the 3 losses. New boys This month’s player feature is Marlon, who helps with Andrew Reeves, Gavin McDermott and Scott Hooper settled in fitness coaching for the first team and occasionally still well and Scott found the net as quickly with his first goal for the team in dons his boots for Albion. For a man who has played only his 3rd competitive match, with Pete Robinson netting the team’s against a full England team in the Hong Kong stadium first hat-trick of the season. but has still played in bigger games, it’s been some career. Early season injuries and omissions meant it was difficult to maintain a If you ever get the opportunity to do training sessions settled side but the depth in quality of the squad meant the team was with Marlon, take it; you’ll rarely be fitter. (Note to self, able to compete in the big games. must call Marlon…) The beginning of November saw a closely fought 2-1 loss against league Off the field, we have enjoyed the company of Nicky Butt leaders 816 which was compounded by a nasty hamstring tear to top around the Club while he is in Hong Kong playing for scorer Pete Robinson. Some tough games against the top sides in South China. We have also welcomed the great man Pele, the division meant points were lost and won but this year the league who looks better at age 70 as some of us do at age 40! championship is proving to be one of the most competitive in years with Finally, at the Interactive Sports Dinner, Australian all the top teams dropping points along the way. A 7-0 thumping of rugby legend Rocky Elsom had the misfortune of German All Stars with a Skipper Harris hat-trick ended the year on being teamed (lumbered?) with 3 members of the Soccer a high and Wanderers went into the Christmas period in a festive mood Section; myself, Francis Chung (Section Chairman) and 6 points adrift of leaders Albion and 816. and Terry Harris (Wanderers skipper). On the night, The New Year brought in new faces with new Hong Kong arrival Ben we finished 4th out of 15 and would have performed Grossman who has settled in well and proving to be a solid player. Rory even better had we got some of the soccer questions Hussey joined from the HKFC Rugby first team and has also played correct! Now that Rocky is safely back in Australia, is rugby at international level for Hong Kong. His ability is proving to be an it safe to spill the beans and tell you that he didn’t know asset to the team and his debut for Wanderers will live long in the memory! the final score of the Rugby World Cup Final between Australia and England in 2003??? Seven wins on the bounce in 2011 has provided a platform on which to push on for the rest of the season. 816 continue to lead by 4 points See you down at the Club. from Albion with us a point behind. KCC and USRC are only 3 points Neil Jensen, behind and with everyone having to play each other going into the Soccer Section Captain final few games I’m sure with 5 teams involved it will go to the wire
22 Apr 2011 SOCCER
with a few twists and turns along the way to keep Regularly found enjoying the Mango and Avocado TOP LEFT: everyone interested. With Wanderers proving Salad in the Sportsman’s, Finn has enjoyed a solid Hulbert protests to have the meanest defence in the league so season so far. Rumour has it that Finn has been TOP CENTRE: far it’s disappointing to lose key players, vice- asked to model the new line of Club casual wear Marc Huff going for goal skipper Danny Beattie, Daz McEntee, Nick after he was caught sporting a sleeveless puffa on a Mawdsley and Ben Grossman to injury we match day. TOP RIGHT: Nathan on 1 leg hope they will play part in the title run in. Just as determined, but not quite as chiseled, Lee BOTTOM: We also have the small matter of a Cup semi-final the Gaffer is enjoying his third season in charge. THB Strapping Up against Antonhill, which will be a new experience The boss loves a tackle and where he lacks in for most of the players. Wanderers last won the pace he definitely makes up for in shirt-pulling Cup in 2004, against Albion, and only a handful ability. He’s made some inspired signings. Sakai of players are still involved from that day. The has been a real asset this season. He put in an opportunity to play Albion again in a re-run of exceptional performance at the Christmas party that final will be an added incentive, none more and was found sixteen hours later somewhere up so than for Craney who got sent off playing in the near China. final for Albion, for kicking his co-manager Bavo. Pak Lampard has stroked the ball around the Whatever happens the run in is likely to prove park with considerable aplomb, his continental every bit as exciting as last year; we hope flare complimenting Johnny C’s Gaelic fury. And Wanderers are still in the mix at the end. in goal, Jamie, a shot-stopper out of the very top- drawer, has made an impressive start to his Albion Bavo career; he’s given us another option alongside his old man ‘Safe Hands’ Shawry. Our season Albion Opposing teams have struggled to cope with the got off to a The Season So Far: antipodean embellishments of Nath and Pete, who linking well with Sammy (the finest crosser of a galloping start, As this goes to press, The Albion currently sit football in the Yau Yee league) have marauded up second in the league, four points off the top and scoring nineteen and down the left all year. we’re looking forward to a challenging Cup semi- goals in our first final against KCC Knights. A number of emphatic game changing moments from some of Albion’s elder-statesmen have shown five games. It was Our season got off to a galloping start, scoring that while the new faces may have added a certain nineteen goals in our first five games. It was panache to the side, the Albion of old still have a evident that the evident that the management’s draconian pre- major role to play. Fitzy’s free kicks, Ash’s injury management’s season fitness sessions were paying dividends. time winner, Big Dev’s acrobatics, and the Gaffer’s draconian pre- Adopting a new formation and seeking a more volleys have all been testament to this. fluid attacking dynamic, we turned in a number (continues next page...) season fitness of impressive score-lines. We gave a thorough sessions were education to the Spartans and the French and we left the Germans feeling particularly sore on both paying dividends occasions. November however, was not a good month for the Albion. A number of agricultural performances saw us drop points to some rather pedestrian outfits. But in recent months we have pulled our season back on course, regaining that precocious passing style that the Albion are famous for.
Club Magazine Apr 2011 23 SOCCER
Player’s Profile: Marlon Ricardo (cont’d...) THB’s ‘short forty-five minute sessions’ on a Age: mid 40’s !!!! Thursday, which begin at seven and end at Clubs played for: eight thirty have added another element to Netherlands - Sparta Rotterdam, RBC Roosendaal our training routine. Ian is probably best at Belgium - FC Antwerp, St. Niklaas the sit-ups, while Scot sticks to the nutmegs. Hong Kong: South China, Sun Hei, HKFC, Golden When Jason has not been taking romantic Best game played in: weekenders with his better half, he’s been MR: 1985 - Ajax Amsterdam vs RBC roosendaal 3-0 nursing a hammy which this season has been (Dutch League Cup semi finals) as dodgy as Dave B’s ‘Lee Bowyer’ haircut back in October. These two have found their Best player played against: form, and Wanderers will really struggle to MR: I played for St. Niklaas (Bel) vs Napoli (Diego contain them come April 3rd. Maradona) pre season tour of Napoli in Belgium where many Italian migrants live and work - when For those of you that are interested, topics dribbling the ball was glued to his feet - despite his discussed in the Albion changing room this size, not afraid to take on bigger opponents because of superior dribbling. season have included: The value of Dave Ruud Gullit at the time played for PSV Eindhoven. He embodied speed, power and Mac’s dating advice? What is actually in adrenaline and was difficult to play against. He was a top player, with good technical Bennie’s bag? Can Paul play up-front abilities and lots of muscle, a nightmare scenario for many opponents. next season? Where does Ariel get those Marco Van Basten for Ajax - this guy scored 4 goals against me while we (RBC) played suits tailored? And who stole Johnnie them in a friendly - always sneaked away in your dead angle - fabulous first touch - Mac’s beard trimmer? deadly in and outside the box. Notable mentions must go to Greg, Hans, Best player played with: Marc, Marlon and Storm. MR: I believe that I had a pretty good understanding with Mike Duxburry in defence (ex Ned Millington Buck Man Utd) while we played for Golden FC here in HK. Pierre Van Hooijdonk was a prolific striker when we met at RBC Roosendaal - a real scoring machine. Arguably the best talent I have ever played with unfortunately never came through as he was killed in a plane crash. At 16 years he played 1 year in the second division in the Netherlands when he was signed on by Ajax Amsterdam. The fastest thing on 2 legs I What can players do to improve that they always say about Wendel Fraser!!! aren’t doing? MR: Players (and coaches) should work more What are you doing since you quit playing professionally? on sharpening one’s physical weak and strong MR: I use to manage the Academy - the front runner of all the football clinics you see points. Whether it’s free kicks, headers, shorts around nowadays. When I started with my partner in 1996 there were only 4 providers. I explosive sprints, or stopping and turning with or stepped out and sold the business a few years later. withhout ball. After that I wanted to start a career in private fitness training, there was no such All aspects of movements in sports can be personal trainer industry in HK - so I left to the USA for 6 months to pick up on the latest dissected into simple movement patterns - trends in private and group conditioning. When I got back, I set up my business and these movement patterns can be studied and never looked back. improved. I am still in fitness,( private training, rehabilitation, running a few indoor bootcamps) but Most of the time players know their strong and recently started to lean a bit more towards sports conditioning and running mechanics. weak points but they never work to improve I started a project with the 1st team in September last year to see how my programmes them. work out. We have increased the fitness level of most 1st team players and think that Plenty of souls go into the gym to “workout” but they all have got stronger and become more aware of what conditioning means for their end up doing the wrong thing most of the time. I performance and fitness levels. can provide solutions to that!!! What’s your thoughts on general fitness levels? What’s your top tip for this month? MR: For sports people I’d say that compared with back home, you’d probably be MR: Vary your training and hire a good coach to fitter there than here.In general people engage in fitness activities because it’s easily help you!!!!! accessible, you can make it as varied and expensive as you want. When looking at the lifestyle of many people you’d expect them be smarter to avoid bulging waistlines by being more aware and active in fitness.
I have trained many people who were alerted by the their physicians with regard to their health.
24 Apr 2011 Club Magazine Apr 2011 25 Mini/Junior/Youth Soccer News
The Great Man PELÉ visits HKFC Mini Soccer
es, that Pele! On Tuesday March 8th, HKFC Mini Soccer was proud to welcome to the Football Club, arguably the greatest Yfootballer of all time, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, better known to you and me as Pelé. Sportsman’s Patio, then toured around the Main Pitch to oversee some Mini and Youth Pelé was in Hong Kong to promote the Soccer Coaching Clinics. recently relaunched New York Cosmos, First up was a special clinic run for a local community school for less privileged children. of which he is now Honorary President, Twenty pupils of the San Wai Commercial Centre Community School were brought to after helping to launch the club first time the Club via Club Member Liz Cotter by School Principal Mr. Ambrose Lui and teacher around in the 1970’s. As a guest of HKFC Mr. Daniel Leung. Mini Soccer Coaches James Penny and Phil Cook ran a short clinic Mini Soccer, Pelé was welcomed to the for these players, some of whom had never played football in their lives, much to the Club by Vice President, Bob Lawson, delight of Pelé whose kiss on the head of one young girl was captured by the photographer Director of Operations, Tony Sealy and of the South China Morning Post for a back page photo the next day. Chairman of HKFC Mini Soccer, Chris Plowman. Amidst feverish excitement Pelé then watched an entertaining match between HKFC Crusaders and the DSA from some over-zealous autograph Dragons from the Hong Kong Down’s Syndrome Association. This match for special hunters he recorded a short video on the needs players was a highlight of the day with our own Sean Browne showing Pelé how it’s done with two great goals.
26 Apr 2011 MINI/JUNIOR/YOUTH SOCCER
The HKFC Mini Soccer Year 7s then got in the act with a small group of players in a coaching session run by Head Coach Mick Lonergan, who chatted to Pelé about the Mini Soccer programme at the Club and his age! Of course, photographs with the great man were very much in demand and Pelé was very obliging having his photo taken with all the coaching clinic groups as well as our Under 13/14/15 players who were going through their paces in their normal weekly coaching session. As General Manager Mark Pawley pointed out, Pelé was last at the HKFC in 1992 at our old clubhouse so he was naturally very impressed with today’s fantastic facilities. It was an absolute honour to host such an icon of the world of football and thanks to the New York Cosmos and all the organisers who helped make the afternoon a success. Pelé meets the HKFC Crusaders players A ball signed by Pelé as well as New York Cosmos silent auction to raise funds for our chosen charitable cause, the Indochina Director of Football, ex-French superstar, Eric Starfish Foundation. Cantona and Associate Director of Soccer, ex-US professional Cobi Jones, was donated Chris Plowman, Chairman to HKFC Mini Soccer and will go into a HKFC Mini / Junior / Youth Soccer
Club Magazine Apr 2011 27 Hockey News
2011 HKFC Hockey 6s Friday 22nd and Saturday 23rd April The 2011 HKFC Hockey 6s take place on 22nd and 23rd April. The competition promises to be fast and furious and will include teams from the UK, Switzerland, Singapore, China, Japan as well as Hong Kong. The Hockey Section will also include its 125th Anniversary Event during the tournament. Just as with the Rugby 10s and Soccer 7s, the Hockey 6s aims to bring fast moving, exciting and top level team sport to Hong Kong. There will be a tented village located on the Training Triangle next to the Hockey Pitch with children’s entertainment and stalls selling merchandise and providing Food and Beverages throughout the 2 days. Brett Garrard - former England and GB captain The Organising Committee have benefitted from having the Ben Marsden - England and GB support of both the Club and also the tournament commercial international partner, Carinat, in organizing what promises to be a hugely Guy Fordham - England and GB successful event. We are also grateful to the volunteers who have international given their time to be ball boys/girls, make sure the tournament Bill Waugh - England and GB runs smoothly and everyone is well fed and watered throughout. international Thanks also to our sponsors and supporters, whom without we could Sander van der Weide - Dutch not run the tournament and who help to make it more enjoyable international for the rest of us. Thanks also to the Club 125th Anniversary Sub- All the international players group Committee who have supported the Section’s 125th Event. have represented their country We know that the Club will welcome all the players and supporters in multiple Olympics Games, as for this event and invite all Club members to come down and well as other major tournaments such as the Champions Trophy, watch this exciting and entertaining tournament unfold. Commonwealth Games and European Hockey Championships. The Finals will be played on the afternoon of Saturday 23rd April The HK Barbarians, as has become tradition in recent years for and trophies will be presented at the conclusion of the tournament matches against visiting international teams will include the best at about 6pm. players from across Hong Kong including a number of HKFC players, who have also played at international level. The match will take place on the evening of Friday 22nd April, shortly after the completion of the first days play in the HKFC 125th Anniversary 6’s competition. A themed party to which all tournament players, Hockey Section members (and Club Members) and the HK International Exhibition Hockey community are invited will follow it. – Friday 22nd April In addition to playing the exhibition match, the visiting Match internationals will be taking coaching clinics with some of the The Hockey Section is proud to announce that to celebrate the mini and youth players across Hong Kong over the course of 125th Anniversary of the Club this year, it will host a 6-a-side the Easter weekend. International Exhibition match between an International All Star team and the HK Barbarians. The International All Stars will This is our Section’s opportunity to celebrate the 125th feature recent internationals from Great Britain, the Netherlands anniversary of the Club and it would be great to see as many of us and New Zealand and include: as possible at the Hockey 6s and at the party.
Hayden Shaw - former captain of New Zealand Patrick Watts
28 Apr 2011 2011 HKFC HOCKEY 6s Friday 22nd and Saturday 23rd April at Hong Kong Football Club
Featuring the HKFC 125th Anniversary International Exhibition Match – International Select 6 v HK Invitational 6 –Friday 22nd April
Club Magazine Apr 2011 29 HOCKEY
Singapore Tour
MEN’S REPORT WOMEN’S REPORT: Well, what can we say?… We came, we saw, we melted! It would be fair to say that had So close at the the beer bellies been cooling machines, then cries from the sidelines of, “what a legend!”, Singapore 6s… “such talent!” might have been frequently heard when the HKFC Boys took to the ne of the most anticipated field of battle… well, in fairness there were events on the hockey a few cries of “such talent”, but I think the season calendar, the female support may have been referring Singapore Cricket Club’s to the lads from down under on the next Osix-a-side tournament had arrived, Club pitch! Nevertheless, hockey was the winner on the day and the enthusiastically entered one men’s and HKFC Boys bravely fought on against all-comers. two ladies’ teams (put simply drinking Day One was a mixed bag of woulda-coulda-shoulda moments and on 3 occasions a and non-drinking). winning result slipped through the keeper’s pads (oh wait, we didn’t have one). That said, Adorned in our dazzling tour uniform, we scrambled, dove, ducked and dived to 3 creditable losses and 2 magnificent draws! which consisted of pink polo shirts, Day Two saw the early start with a qualifying match just to put us through the Bowl pink sequined hats and school ties, all Play-offs. With only 5 on the pitch and others straggling across the vast Padang, we ladies were eager to get this show on took on the oppo and put them to the sword. By the time we were full strength we had the road. After a quick cider, and a already slotted 2 early goals. The opposition (slightly worse off than we were in terms request to borrow the lounge singer’s of ‘hydration’) were stunned and couldn’t believe our band of 5 were too good! The microphone, the ladies were ready to final result and our only win on tour was a resounding 5-2 thumping! But as they say…. take on anything that Singapore threw A game of two halves… our next match at us. (This included the grass pitches (Bowl Quarter) was a complete reversal and heat!) and we became whipping boys for the The first games of the day proved eventual Bowl Winners. The Indians from to set the tone for the tournament as KL tore us to pieces and that was all she the A’s won their game 4-0 and B’s wrote! A fantastic tour as always, but unfortunately lost their match 2-3. without the fire power of the A Team This was due to a number of reasons, players originally picked but unavailable, one being the lack of a goalie. Special we weren’t up to the quality of some of mentions of the day go to Claire the opponents and most definitely we Archer for a remarkable save, using her were a distant last to the tropical heat! head to deflect the ball away from goal. Bring on Bangkok! Simon Chapman After a rain shower came and went the
30 Apr 2011 MINI HOCKEY
Silverware for HKFC Mini Hockey at
KCC KFC took 7 Mini Hockey teams (2 at each of U8 and U10 and 3 at U12) to the 9th Annual KCC Mini day was complete and the night was Hockey Tournament on Sunday 6th to begin! HMarch at Kowloon Cricket Club. With 16 clubs Dressing in the requested school participating this is one of the largest tournaments attire, freckles, ribbons, white of the calendar in terms of the breadth of shirts and ties, best dressed was opposition. If there was any trepidation it was the young lady who accessorized dealing with the uncertainty of grass pitches for her outfit with a pair of stunning our ‘astro’ trained players. There were many black framed glasses, a true school blank faces when the coaches tried to explain girl effort. After numerous servings “old school” hockey, bumpy pitch conditions and of curry, mountains of lolly pops, upright stick work... Actually a few of our younger and a brief jelly baby food fight, coaches also had limited understanding of what all ladies proceeded to dance the the old guys were talking about. night away. A number of ladies were seen dancing on tables, frolicking with Unlike last year we were spared rain and by gentlemen from the Australian teams and even getting into rather passionate mid-morning the tournament was in full swing in disagreements with casino security. glorious sunshine with over 400 children playing The following day all hockey games were sudden death knock-out. over 7 pitches and all 3 age groups. Unfortunately the B’s were knocked out first game, even though Emma Jewell At the end of the did score a marvellous goal. The A team progressed strongly into the finals via a tournament we left KCC brilliant semi- final match between Club and local HK rivals Valley 6-0. with 4 teams picking up Club met KL Hockey Club in the final, the teams managed to keep score silverware, across all three drawn 0-0 at the completion of the first half, thanks in no small part to Claire age groups – the only Archer in goal who was having the game of her life. KLHC managed to score club to achieve this – and a brilliant goal within the first minute of the second half, only for Club to one MVP award to Issy equalize a minute later. KLHC then scored two very fast, well placed goals Carey in U10 Division 1. to finish the score at 4-1. This game was by far the most exciting game of the In the U8 tournament our B Team, coached by tournament, and we could not have asked for a more exciting final. Mandy Szymanski won the silver medal in Dashing back to the hotel fresh from the final, trophy in one hand and Division 2. They won 3 games out of 4 (3-0, 5-0, champagne in the other, all ladies boarded the flight a little sun burnt and 3-0) and with one draw (2-2). Remarkably all a little hung over, but there were smiles all around as it had been a job well 13 goals were scored by Niklas Maher, clearly done by all! Emma Maclean
U8B Div 2 Runner up
Club Magazine Apr 2011 31 MINI HOCKEY in line for the mini Golden Stick award Ma made a real difference and worth watching as a potential striker from the bench to help win the for some of our senior teams. Mendel physical battle against one of Szymanski provided a strong defence at the more aggressive teams we the back, with aggressive (and we mean have played. It was becoming that) attacking and defending from the rest obvious how the hard work of the squad: Anjeli De Blank, Maxime in training was paying off. Saffon, Olivia Wintle, Ethan Dove and Justin Mak had a stormer, Christian Tarala. It is worth noting that choosing the right moments half this team is new to HKFC in the last to step out of defence and few weeks. We were unlucky not to win start moves in midfield and the gold, going down to Khalsa in the final. breaking up their attacks. Game 3 saw the biggest In the U10 tournament our A Team was winning margin of any team 3rd in Division 1 and our B Team was in the tournament. Lottie 2nd in Division 2, coached respectively U12A Plate Winners Burton started on the right by Oliver Spensley and Gayle Davies. very close to being a lot more and they and had a great game creating chance would more than have deserved that as after chance, as did Victoria “chip off well. In a similar fashion our U10 B team the old block” Barker, giving Issy a convincingly battled through their Division rest upfront and bagging a hat-trick - just to a 2nd place finish. reward for some very hard running and pressing the defence whenever they had the In the U12 tournament our A Team, ball. This set us up nicely for the must-win coached by Laurette Gallagher, played game against Valley A. We had drawn very strong and competitive hockey 1-1 in the last tournament, but this time in Division 1 with one draw and no completely controlled the game and kept losses. This put us tied with Valley A on another clean sheet. Gwenael Laot got points, goals and goal difference in the Pool competition necessitating penalty U10A Squad the final goal in a 3 nil win after stepping into midfield, having spent the rest of the flicks to decide which team went into the Stats for the A Team were 4 wins, 1 loss (to day brilliantly organising the defence and Cup competition. Without an HKFC GSIS A), 17 goals scored, 2 conceded, 4 stopping anything that did occasionally keeper and against the Valley A keeper, clean sheets with the best goal difference in get past the rest of the team. That put us we lost on flicks and went into the Plate Division 1. Every single player contributed into the 3rd place playoff against DBIS A Competition, while Valley A went on to an excellent team performance that who had beaten us at the same stage in our to win the Cup. Our unbeaten record ended with a 3rd place playoff win over last tournament. To illustrate how close continued in the Plate competition and DBIS. The first game was characterised we were to the final, had we drawn against thanks to Alexandra Barker’s save in by perseverance – despite camping in the GSIS we would have been top of the group another penalty flick play off against opposition half for the whole game (they after finishing with a +11 goal difference DBIS we went into the Plate final against didn’t manage a single shot on goal) we in just 4 games. This put us into a 3rd Shaheen. At this point the team was not kept going despite the fact that we couldn’t place play-off where we comprehensively going home without taking the Plate and seem to get the ball over the line. Constant outplayed DBIS for a 4-0 win and it could dominated the match to take the trophy. pressure eventually told for a 2-0 win. have been more. The best way to sum it up Many congratulations to our magnificent Good solid performance and helped by is to say how good it was to hear the DBIS defence Alexandra Barker, Harry Conrad Zymanski’s tracking back and parents surprised and complementing us Woodrow, Richard Chao and Jacob covering to keep the shape as we pushed on the hockey we were playing. Everything Stewart - we only conceded one match forward. Special mention to Ben Delf the team has worked on, supporting each goal in the whole tournament. The usual attacking on the right hand side, keeping other, moving into space, passing, calling, strong performances from our forwards the pressure on as we waited for the goal keeping shape all came together again. It James Sheperdson (hat-rick in the first to come. Our one loss was against a GSIS was a well deserved bronze medal, but was match again ensuring the usual fine for A team fielding one of the best players Shep Sr), Oscar McClean and Harriet from our U12 training and a team that Molloy who with Alexandra, Richard and could easily have beaten us by a cricket Harry notched up a good deal of goals on score the last time we played. However, the day. Our U12 B team also made it into despite going down to an early goal we kept the Plate Competition after some tough passing the ball around and made it 1-1 games, but remained committed to the end with Issy Carey finishing a great move up and were just lacking in goal scoring ability the right. In an evenly contested game we to make it through to the final stages. ended up losing 2-1 but played the much better hockey and clearly surprised them Well done to all players and encouraging with how we had improved. Matthew results for all with fantastic representation U10B Div 2 Runner Up in the silverware for HKFC.
32 Apr 2011 Lawn Bowls News
125 MIXED FOURS QUALIFYING COMPETITION
The 5th March saw the first day of the qualifying competition but it didn’t matter because they had had a great time, while for the 125 Mixed Fours competition. Seventy-two bowlers took another who had just won a really close match said that it was the part and many other Section members came along to watch the most exciting game they had played. games. Altogether eighteen teams had entered the competition At the end of the day nearly every team is still in with a chance fighting for nine places in the Mixed Fours which will take place to get through. The second and deciding day is 19th March and on 2nd and 3rd April. From the start it was destined to be a day of it can be confidently predicted that this will be an equally exciting hard fought games and close scores. and enjoyable day. What made the day so special however was the spirit the games Many thanks to Leo and Johnny for organizing the qualifying were played in. The results of the games didn’t seem to matter, competition and Rita T for organizing the tea. win or lose everyone enjoyed themselves. One bowler, when asked how they had done replied that they had lost every game
COACHING SESSION BY SOUTH AFRICAN TOP BOWLERS It was obvious that all the Section bowlers enjoyed the practice and definitely learnt a lot from them. They also set up a scoring system for each practice. As a result, the winner, Wai Yee, got the highest score and Emmie Wong was the 1st runner-up. They both won a bottle of red wine. Congratulations to both of them. All the participants were very grateful to our South African friends for their excellent coaching and valuable advice. We wish them all the best in the coming Tiger Bowls and China Tour. n March we were delighted to welcome once again our South Africa friends: Doug Bashford, John Connellan, Ron Freeman and a new young bowler, Clinton Roberts, to the Club. They were in Hong Kong to join the 14th Tiger Bowls World I Invitation– China tour 2011. As last year, they were kind enough to spare us an evening before their competition to organize a coaching session for the Section bowlers. Forty-two bowlers attended this session. The session was well planned and full of laughter and enthusiasm. We had different draw practice on weight and green control; yard-on and trial shots were also introduced. During
the activity, the coaches were very patient to explain how to play these shots and gave advice Coaching evening winner Wai Yee and 1st to the bowlers on different aspects of each skill. runner- up Emmie Wong
Club Magazine Apr 2011 33 LAWN BOWLS
Hong Kong Lawn Bowls Association National Finals Day held at USRC
The 6th March was the Finals Day for Twice Grace accidently knocked her own many of the National Competitions that wood out to go from being up to being the HKLBA hold each year. down and adding to Queenie’s score. The cheers of Queenie’s supporters got louder Three of these finals had bowlers from and the Club supporters grew very quiet. HKFC taking part. The singles game however is played until Ladies Fours one player gets 21 shots rather than the The finals of the Ladies Fours matched usual 18 ends . This gives time for an HKFC against USRC. The Club team experienced player such as Grace to come Bernard and Thomas, National Men’s 2-4-2 back, and come back she did. Watching was made up of: Rita Shek, Wendy Hui, Winners Clarissa Wong and Rita Tsui. The game started as many expected with the game it seemed to happen by magic. One moment Grace was down and out, It was always going to be a hard game to KBGC taking a significant early lead but Bernard and Thomas plugged away the next moment she was only two shots win especially as USRC were playing on behind, and the next end she had won their home green. Despite a valiant effort and by mid way through the 18 ends had turned the tables and were in the lead. it. What is remarkable is that Grace was on behalf of the Club ladies they finished behind Queenie from the very first end up as runners up. From this point there was no turning back. to the very last and the only time she Our congratulations go to the team for Both Club players played at the top of overtook Queenie was when she won the reaching the final and for the spirit in their game and as the gap between the two competition. You could actually see a which you played. teams grew so did the confidence of our question on Queenie’s face “how did that players and the pride from our spectators. happen”? The answer to that is simple. A Bernard and Thomas finished up worthy game of bowls is never over until it is over winners. Congratulations to both players. and for anyone who has the nerve and the experience it can be there for the taking. Ladies Singles On the day it was Grace’s nerve and A game between our own Grace Chu experience that won her the match. Well and SBSC’s Queenie Lai was something done Grace, you are a worthy winner. many spectators had been waiting for. Both players are difficult to beat on their day, so Ladies National 4’s runners up a lot would depend on who could pull it out of the bag. Mens Pairs 2-4-2 Strangely for most of the game it looked Dare it be said that our duo of Bernard as if it could only go one way. Grace was Young and Thomas Tam were up playing well but whatever she did Queenie against it? They were playing a renowned seemed able to bring in a final shot and pair from KBGC and the betting seemed knock Grace’s woods out of the way. As to be against a Club win. the score mounted for Queenie the luck Grace Chu, National Ladies Singles Winner seemed more and more to go in her favour.
THE 12TH BEGINNERS’ COURSE
The Section recently organized a beginners’ course for Club Members. Five sessions were held during February and early March. There were four participants. During the five sessions, participants were introduced to how the game was played, basic skills and bowls etiquette.
All four participants enjoyed the course and gave their all.
The course was run by our Section coach Rita Shek and many thanks go to her for this. From left to right: Aurora Chong, Sheila McCoig, Kwok-Lai Chong and Susan Lowrey
34 Apr 2011 Netball News
Men’s Club Comments from the Chair Singles Final It seems very hard to be joyous at this time looking at the devastation of the Earthquake in New Zealand and now Japan. I am sure we will be sparing a thought for these very strong sporting countries over the next few weeks as we celebrate sports here in Hong Kong. The league is almost at an end for us and we are looking forward to the semi finals on the 4th April followed by
Karin Looram, the finals on the 11th April. I am very proud to say that we Netball DSA have 4 out of 5 teams in the finals! If you have time to help Chairperson support our teams then please come down to Western Park for some good netball. We will advertise the times for the games on our website (www.hkfcnetball.com) as well as on our notice board throughout the Club. The match between Thomas and Neil Speaking of dates, we have scheduled our AGM/Prize-giving for the 5th May. was an eagerly awaited game as both This is a compulsory event for all netball DSA members. Luckily, the AGM part is bowlers had been on form in recent always over very quickly then we go on to the fun part of the night, the speeches! weeks. It was played on a Thursday Look out for more details regarding this soon. evening so many of the men who had attended roll up stayed on to watch. On more serious note regarding our AGM, we will be looking for new members to fill vacant positions on the committee for the 2011/12 season. If you would As often happens in a game of Lawn like to know how things run, have a say and put forward ideas, then you should Bowls it got off to a fairly even start, consider joining the Netball DSA committee. As I always say, if you want to have went one way, then the other and an opinion and voice it, then you need to be prepared to step up and work for it. ended up in a nail biting finish. Great news! A tour has been confirmed for the28th May, to Bangkok. Teams After seven ends the score was 7 -6 will play in the Southerners Netball Tournament. Details yet to be confirmed. to Thomas. After 14 ends it was 17-6 Please let Stacey Mclocklan know if you are keen to join. to Thomas. Then Neil rallied. After 23 ends it was 19 – 17 to Thomas and Lastly, we are lucky enough to be able to run our Summer Mixed League this both players could have bowled it out year. This is always very popular, fun and open to all. It’s a great way to keep in one end. Thomas scored one in the match fit, meet new people and learn the specifics of netball. Dates and times will 24th end to make it 20-17 and then took be advertised around the Club soon. the game in the 25th end. It was a fascinating game with both MATCH REPORTS players making some wonderful shots. The green also played its part with the Monday February 14th woods at times going in very strange directions but as one of the bowlers HKFC Tornadoes 24 vs Valley Jaguars 27 commented it was the same green for When the Tornadoes faced Valley Jaguars this week it was a game that rocked back both players. and forth. Valley narrowly came out victorious, despite their lower position on the ladder, after putting together some great teamwork. Congratulations to Thomas on winning the game and to Neil for making it a Tornadoes dominated scoring in the first quarter with a collection of fluid passes from great final. Rachel Corthorn and dead eye shooting from Penelope Hamilton, finishing with 9-12. The second quarter swung the other way as the pressure mounted on the combined defence. Marie Farry ran hard making her opposite number work for it whenever the ball was close. Interceptions were rife from both sides but Valleys Goal Shooter seemed to find the net almost every time. In the third quarter both teams fought to move the ball down the court with Dawn Cheng making some great breaks into space. Goals were traded point for point until we entered the last period one goal down on 19-18. Determination was written on the faces of all, and some excellent opportunities were capitalised, but a string of accurate shooting from a distance and dipping energy levels meant it was a grind to the final whistle. In the end, it was one of the most competitive games of the season and unfortunate to have ended against us. We will be looking forward to a rematch in the future. Go Tornadoes! Michelle Robinson
Club Magazine Apr 2011 35 NETBALL
Monday 21st February HKFC Hurricanes 27 vs Magpies 16. HKFC Hurricanes 38 vs Great White Sharks 5 A much harder game this week for the Hurricanes... we started well, 10-2 after the first quarter, and then we seemed to loose our After their storming win the previous week the Hurricanes were way through the second and third quarters allowing the Magpies in good spirit and keen for a repeat of their success this week back into the game. Ange and Yvonne were both on top form against the Great White Sharks. The Hurricanes put in a strong intercepting and getting some great rebounds. Fortunately, we performance from the start with strong defence both centre regained our composure for the final quarter securing the 4 points court and in and around the circle. There were lots of great with a 27-16 win. Debbie Thompson interceptions catching the Great White Sharks off guard and stepping up the pressure. At half time we had a strong lead 17-3 Monday 7th March 2011 with some very accurate shooting by Wilma Donnelly. The Hurricanes went from strength to strength and were unstoppable HKFC Whirlwinds 38 v HKU Giants 17 again, securing another firm victory with a final score of 38-5. The old adage ‘the early bird catches the worm’ came into play on Well done everyone and let the spirit continue! Karina Rippon Monday night. Whirlwinds turned up early and in force. Monday 28th February We were determined to keep cool heads and play our game. We started well and were happy with the 8-3 first quarter score. HKFC Tornadoes 49 vs Great White Sharks 11 The opposition shooters were having a difficult time getting near A couple of fantastic shots early in the first quarter from both the goal due to the excellent defending of Heather McKay and shooters, Kim and Michelle set the tone and saw Tornadoes up Angela Worthington. During the second quarter, we made some 10 - 4 at the end of the first quarter, setting the tone for the rest of good intercepts and managed to increase our lead to 15-8. the game. The courts at Aberdeen increase the number of turned over balls Throughout the second quarter there were some excellent tips and as the sidelines are sometimes hard to see. Despite this, the players interceptions from Abbi which won the ball from the opposition kept their composure and played calmly. Some excellent double to give Tornadoes the advantage. These balls were quickly taken marking by Eva Chui and Heather McKay made it difficult for down the court by Dawn and Rachel and converted into goals the Giants to get the ball into the circle. by the shooters to bring Tornadoes up by 18 - 7 by the end of the third quarter. Some changes were made at half time with Jennifer Hill coming on at centre, Manu Santi at WD and Nadia Cuvelier at GD. With Tornadoes confidence high they took to the court for the third quarter. The defence were strong, the passing down the court was smooth and shooting was accurate. With this combination Tornadoes had a strong quarter leaving them 32 - 9 up by the time the bell rang. As Tornadoes stepped back on court for the fourth and final quarter they were tired, but still playing well. In this quarter they left the sharks wondering what was happening as they managed to score a whopping 17 goals! This brought the Tornadoes final score to 49 - 11. A great team effort! Well done girls! Marie Farry HKFC Whirlies 33 vs HKCC Griffins 19 It was a very bizarre start to the match. Apart from Elaine Morgan taking her place on the court looking rather purple in the face (having already played an hour stepping in last minute to help out Typhoons) all the Whirlies seem to have misjudged the quarter time score and we were all surprised to find that it was 5-5 after the first quarter! However we stepped up our play and at the end of the second half we were up 13 goals to 9. There was some great play down the court and Charlotte Thompson was on great form in the circle helping us to an overall 33-19 win at the end of the match. Heather Mckay went off injured for the last quarter which meant a re-shuffle in defence and 1 or 2 players now out of position but we held it together and that win saw us move into 2nd in the table with just 3 games to go! Special mentions to Emmanuella Santi who got some great intercepts in throughout the last 2 quarters of the match and of course to Elaine who was shattered but put in another great performance. Kathryn Curley
36 Apr 2011 NETBALL
The transition was smooth. The centre court players put a lot of at the Christmas Dinner. It was nice to see Amanda (our pressure on the ball and it worked well. There was some quick coach) turned into a Wonder Woman too and joining our passes inside and some great shooting by Charlotte Thompson team that evening. The girls looked terrific but unfortunately and Elaine Morgan. Leaving Whirlwinds leading by 26-12 after we didn’t win the ‘best dressed’. We still had a fabulous time. the 3rd quarter. I remember our first game as a new Tornadoes team at The final quarter was a great team effort with better options being the beginning of the season – and whe I look now, we have given and some nice passes being made. definitely stepped up as a team. We started off with just one experienced shooter- Penelope Hamilton. Allyson Ko Well done team. It was a great display! Elaine Morgan stepped up to the challenge and successfully tried out as a shooter. Unfortunately Allyson got injured and has missed the whole season. With practice and training, we now have 3 great The Season So Far... shooters: Michelle Cairns and Hayleigh Davies as well as Penelope. Michelle Robinson has also developed her game Our Captain’s Views considerably. Whereas she was unsure if she was doing the right thing and challenging her opponent, she now takes it all in her stride and plays like a real pro! Well done Michelle! HKFC Hurricanes With a positive start to the 2nd half of the season and the girls As the end of the season draws near, the Hurricanes are gelling as a team, I’m sure if we maintain our standard of almost assured a place in the semi-finals. Whether it is play, no doubt we will be in the semi finals! coincidence or careful planning by the HKNA, the last match of the season will be against our fellow Club team Tornadoes GO TORNADOES !! and the way things look at this stage the result of this end Dawn Cheng (Tornadoes Captain) of season ‘grudge match’(!) will determine who finishes 2nd and 3rd in the league. There are only a couple of points in it. Either way it seems we are destined to play each other in the HKFC Whirlwinds semi-finals - so many more tense moments ahead... Let’s see if The season saw us kick off (centre pass off!) with a new look our coach Amanda’s nerves can take it! Whirlies. Several of our team members from last season were moved up into Typhoons and the usual pre season Whatever happens in the finals, there is no doubt we will look virus... pregnancy!!!!!... got an early grip on 4 of our squad back on this season as one to be very proud of. We started the with Roimata Keogh, Jenni Hill, Frances Hurley and season with a glut of mid court players and only 2 shooters Caroline Freeman all reporting to duty with the good and 3 defenders - but as a result of some unfortunate injuries news that fertility rates amongst the Whirlies remain as high and a couple of pregnancies, we quickly had to adapt and as ever! Anything to get you ladies out of those battles with all credit to the players who have slotted into new positions the Cricket Club! with such apparent ease. Special mention must go to two players in particular (i) Debbie Thompson, who followed It has been a mixed bag so far but recent results have seen us her daughter’s lead from last year by retraining herself as climb the league from a lowly 7th out of the 9 league teams to a shooter and is proving a very effective GA, and (2) Ange a very healthy 2nd at the end of February and only 3 points Webb, who switched to GD late last season, has matured behind the leaders. That position at the end of the season into the role and is now unstoppable - chasing every ball would see us qualify for the semi finals in April. down whether in the goal circle, or acting as support for the A dip in form and results during November and December mid-court players. The team has really gelled well together saw a much needed pep talk from our coach Karin Looram and supported each other through some very tough matches . The Christmas bash followed on from that and when 10 - including the invaluable support from those injured and Whirlies are dressed as Mrs Claus in Soho on a Friday night pregnant players on the bench, as it must be so hard to sit then spirits are bound to lift! Three days later we went on to through game after game not being able to play. win and that game saw us start a winning steak of 4 Monday Everyone is looking forward to the last couple of matches and night wins on the trot. then roll-on the finals! There have been some excellent performances from many Katie Gearing (Hurricanes Captain) of the Whirlies so far but I think it would only be fair to give a special mention to Nadia Cuvelier and Charlotte Thompson. They are our schoolgirl members of the team HKFC Tornadoes and have shown a level of maturity in their play well above The season so far for Tornadoes is not too bad at all! We their years. were in 2nd place at the end of the first half of the season It is now down to us to maintain our position in the league so and so far continue to be so. that we can hopefully look forward to the semi-final play offs. We had a great 1st half of the season. We lost only 2 GO WHIRLIES! matches. Keep it up Tornadoes ! Kathryn Curley (Whirlie!)– Whirlwinds Captain We ended our first half of season dressed up as Super Women
Club Magazine Apr 2011 37 Tennis News Juniors Notch up Second Win CHARITY DOUBLES Congratulations to Chris, Lucius, Antoine, Ben, Akshay TENNIS TOURNAMENT and Dexter for the junior team’s first victory of the new league on 11th February. They beat a strong CRC team 6-3. Everyone played very well with great consistency and good strategy. Single games were won by Chris, Lucius, Ben and Akshay, while the doubles pairs of Lucius-Antoine and Chris-Ben also had wins. Ben achieved his first set win in a gutsy tie-break battle and Akshay made his debut for the team with a solid singles victory to give the Club an early lead. Dexter and Antoine had incredibly close single games with CRC just edging them out, while Chris and Lucius managed decisive wins. And in a clear sign that the coaching sessions are paying dividends along Mark your calendars: with the hard work and commitment of our junior squad, they managed a 7-2 victory on March 11 against Pacific Club. Saturday 9th April Antoine, Lucius, Christopher, Matthew and Olivier all won their singles matches, while Antonie-Lucius / The Charity Doubles Tennis Tournament will take Christopher-Matthew won their doubles too. A great result place on Saturday 9th April. Have you signed up a team and we wish them luck with the remaining matches. yet? This annual event is open to all Club Members. Its aim is to raise much needed funds for the orphans of Uganda, specifically an orphanage in the slums of Kampala, the capital of Uganda, called Jordan House. Last year, we raised just over $30,000. This year, we want to raise more funds for these under- privileged children!! Details of the tournament are as follows: Date: Saturday 9th April 2011 Time: 1pm to 6pm Cost: $250 per person Format: Teams of 4 (2 men and 2 ladies). Men’s, ladies and mixed doubles will be played. A handicapped system will be used so all level of players are welcome. Snacks and drinks will be provided on the day. African crafts and jewellery will also be on sale on the 2nd floor The winning team of Dexter, Ben, Chris, Antoine, Lucius and Akshay lobby area. These are all made by the local people of Uganda. If you wish to participate in this very worthwhile event, you can sign up on the Tennis Society website. For more information about this orphanage, please go to www. League Competitions operationuganda.com. At time of writing, there were still two league competitions in progress – the Mixed League competition as part of the Hong Kong Tennis Association and our Premier, Division 2 and Division 4 ladies teams in the Hong Kong Ladies Tennis League. The Mixed League team, led by Job Tang and Mary Soo, have had another successful season in their quest to win 3 titles in a row. Since going down in their very first match against USRC, the team have strung together six wins in a row to lead the competition with one match remaining. Meanwhile, the Premier team, led by Haj Wilcox, are leading their competition with four wins and a draw against last seasons winners, LRC, with three matches remaining. The Division 2 team, led by Pamela Sargant, have managed four draws and one loss to be in 7th place on the ladder out
38 Apr 2011 TENNIS
of ten teams while the Division 4 team, with Yolanda Sun at the helm, are in 5th position out of ten teams with two wins, two draws and one loss. General Notice Be sure to check out the NEWLY REVAMPED Tennis Society website which is updated regularly with lots more photos from Upcoming Events all of the recent events. http://www.hkfc.com.hk/sports_sub. asp?cat=tennis Make a note for your diaries – more details will be available on the 3/F noticeboard and the website: If you have any questions, comments or suggestions for the Tennis Society, please email the following address: Charity Cup – Saturday 9th April [email protected] Club Championships, May French Open Social – Saturday 28th May Wimbledon Social – Saturday 25th June
Sunday Social Tennis A reminder that Sunday Social Tennis takes place every Sunday morning from 9am -12 noon. This social event is open to all Tennis Society members. Just come along with your racquet and you are set to go.
Singles Ladders If you are interested in competing in the men’s or ladies singles ladders, information is on the 3/F noticeboard and on the website. For those presently on the ladder, it’s time to get in there and make some challenges!! We collect and deliver your car FREE OF CHARGE (Subject to Distance) We provide good quick repair service at reasonable prices.
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Club Magazine Apr 2011 39 Golf News
Andy Ho, Golf Society Chairman 19th Hole with the Chairman Club Championship at Kau Sai Chau North – 23rd February Some of you have informed me that you have not received any emails from the Golf So who is the Society’s best golfer? The Club Championship event awards the Society. We currently send emails via the much prized trophy each year and it has always been contested at a high level. Club’s database. If you have elected not to This year the North course at Kau Sai Chau was the venue, probably the best receive e-notices etc from the Club then you championship course in HK. It’s tough, and no carts are allowed and so real will not receive one from the GS either. If you golf is played rather than the softer option on the other courses. Late February have changed your email address then please gave us near-ideal weather and a fun day out for the non-champions in the advise the Club, and if you only wish to receive handicap category. Kau Sai Chau has many ladies tees far removed from the emails from the GS, please inform Gary Choi mens, so we have two separate Championships because the ladies are effectively at [email protected]. Email is our main on a different course. channel of communication other than the In the mens Championship (gross) category the leaders were Phil Head on 89, Society Notice Board. Dallas Reid the runner-up (again!) on 87 and Champion Duncan Spooner As mentioned before, it’s annual subscription with 85. time and I want to welcome all new members For the ladies, Lana Woo and Cathy Neish tied on 108, but the clear to the Golf Society. A timely reminder also to Champion by fourteen shots was Lily Chan with 94. all GS members who have registered with the HKGA through us, that your new handicap In the net category the winners were Allan Hay and Rosemary Hsu, and the card for 2011 is now available at the Club longest drives went to Lily Ho and Duncan. Reception for collection. Lots of near pin prizes too, won by KC Shing, Mark Norman, Dallas Reid 125th Anniversary Golf Shirt and Paul Cheng. To celebrate the Club 125th Anniversary, every Congratulations to all the winners, but particularly to Duncan and Lily whose currently subscribed GS member will get a free names go on the trophies. 125th Anniversary Golf Shirt. We tried our For next year, we have decided to move the Championship to a Saturday, to best when it comes to gauging sizes but with bring more of our best golfers into the competitions by allowing the weekday 1,000 members, the size of shirts will come workers to join in. on a first come first serve basis. Members can reserve their sizes in advance before they collect David Connolly them from the Club. Please pick up your golf shirts from Reception if you have not done so already. The deadline for picking up the shirts is the 31st of May 2011. Golf Bag Name Tag Again, I wish to remind all GS members to pick up your HKFC GS Golf Bag Name Tags also available at Reception if you have not already done so. Happy Easter!!
40 Apr 2011 BOOKS AND MOVIES LIBRARY
NEW BOOKS IN THE LIBRARY Golf Rules Evening 29th February
Each four years the Rules of Golf are updated and the latest Rule books are now available, covering 2008 to 2011. We were very fortunate that Dr Brian Choa who is a member of the international R&A Rules Committee, and perhaps Asia’s leading expert on golf rules, agreed to give us a NEW BOOKS presentation on the new rules and to BATTLE HYMN OF THE TIGER MOTHER BY AMY CHUA answer questions in a lively discussion. He was assisted by Candi Anna Chan, TICK TOCK BY JAMES PATTERSON Hong Kong’s leading Golf Rules lady, and Iain Valentine in his HKGA Chief A DAY TO DIE FOR BY GRAHAM RATCLIFFE Executive role. LASTING DAMAGE BY SOPHIE HANNAH The changes in the new 2008 Rule THE LAST SUMMONING book (available free from the HKGA, BY KELLEY ARMSTRONG and the Society has some spare VAMPIRE ACADEMY - LAST SACRIFICE BY RICHELLE MEAD copies) are relatively minor, but in a number of cases the penalties for MIDNIGHT BY STEPHEN LEATHER infringements have been reduced. PERCY JACKSON - THE DEMIGOD FILES BY RICK RIORDAN One change which most of us will have experienced is that it is now AND MORE...! permissible to move a ball in a hazard for identification – and on the other hand there is now a normal penalty NEW MOVIES IN THE LIBRARY for playing the wrong ball in a hazard, since there is no longer any excuse! In addition to the new small Rule book, there is now available an THE AMERICAN Illustrated Rules book which makes Alone among assassins, a great present for golfers. There is Jack (George Clooney) is a also a Golf Decisions book for 2008-9 master craftsman. When a available, suggested as an excellent toilet job in Sweden ends more companion for the serious golfer. Both harshly than expected for of these books are available from the this American abroad, he HKGA at $300 each. vows to his contact Pavel Our thanks to Brian, Candi and Iain that his next assignment for another excellent presentation which will be his last. Jack reports rounded off a great day for the Society. to the Italian countryside, where he holes up in a small town and relishes being away from death for a spell. The assignment, as specified by a Belgian woman, Mathilde, is in the offing as a weapon is constructed. Surprising himself, Jack seeks out the friendship of local priest Father Benedetto and pursues romance with local woman Clara. But by stepping out of the shadows, Jack may be tempting fate...
Club Magazine Apr 2011 41 42 Apr 2011