For Po Leung Kuk’s disadvantaged kids, Hong Kong Rugby Union’s programmes mean new friends and being part of a team
The game is giving a group of girls from the residential care home a purpose in life and a chance to see the world
To many, rugby is a release and a way to feel part of the culture that is so unique to sports clubs, but for a group of girls at Po Leung Kuk’s residential care home, it is so much more.
It gives them purpose in their disjointed lives, with 14-year-old Lisa Wong Wai-Lam hailing her rugby family as “another home”.
Wong, along with Candy Lo Wai-sze (14), Cathy Wong Sze-man (16), Kinki Lam Tsz-ki (13) and Polly Liu Chun-chun (12), attended the Tony Ho Rugby Camp in England last month as part of PLK’s partnership with the Hong Kong Rugby Union.
All five girls are long-term PLK residents due to family crises and went to the camp – which offers specialised rugby training – with the help of the union and the Kowloon Rugby Club.
“Without rugby training, I never would have been able meet so many new friends. It is like another home to us,” says Lisa Wong, who has been playing since the age of 10. “It’s exciting, fun and interesting. I’ve learnt about teamwork.”
