Children can have a ball
In addition to running the internationally renowned Hong Kong Sevens, the Hong Kong Rugby Football Union (HKRFU) also undertakes a development programme called mini rugby.
'Once a child reaches the under-nines level, they start to develop a good sense of discipline and also begin to understand the value of playing for the good of the team and not themselves.'
Mini rugby is a modified version of the 15-a-side game, designed for children aged between four and 12. There is a progression in the rules the game is played under, as they move through the age groups.
For the under-six, seven and eight age-groups, the game is essentially non-contact, with the main aim of teaching the basic skills of running forward and passing backwards after being touched by an opponent.
Contact begins once children reach the under-nines and by the time they move into the under-12s, contested scrums, lineouts, rucks and mauls are included.
There are 18 mini rugby clubs around Hong Kong that run Sunday morning training sessions from September to May. Each session runs for 11/2 to two hours, depending on the club, and costs between HK$500 and HK$1,000 per season.
Mini rugby festivals between clubs take place each month and all children receive a participation medal.
Most teams are mixed, with girls having the same playing opportunities as boys. Girls are given the option to play in all-girls teams once they reach the under-10s level.
The HKRFU also holds a summer training course for beginners during July and August in association with the Leisure and Cultural Services Department. There are two age groups: five to 11 and 12 to 17. The aim is to introduce the sport by covering basic theory, fundamental team skills and fitness training.
The programme, open to boys and girls, comprises 14 sessions of 90 minutes each and costs HK$300. All participants receive a certificate at the end of the course.
