It's early days yet in the Olympic dream, says China's 'Mr Rugby' Johnny Zhang Zhiqiang, but the benefits are already being felt on the mainland thanks to the game's profile being raised.
'The Olympic inclusion is a very exciting opportunity,' says Zhang. 'Policy and system updates of the Chinese Rugby Union are now in the process. Funding has not been clarified yet, but rugby in China has really received intangible benefits such as more media interviews, more media exposure. This has received a positive attitude. 'I think because of this the whole funding will improve, but it's early days yet,' he says.
Zhang, who will turn his hand to coaching and hopes to lead China to the Olympics, believes the sport has already been given a shot in the arm at grassroots level.
'The players are more excited and more passionate, and we are seeing more young children sign up. Perhaps one day they will represent their country at the Olympics.'
The IRB's regional general manager in Asia, Jared Gallagher, says the most important step is getting sevens into the 2013 National Games in Liaoning.
'This will have a dramatic effect on rugby as it will essentially widen the base of China's elite rugby players in the 2016 Olympics,' Gallagher said.