A domestic Hong Kong Sevens? Coach sees need to nurture talent as city’s men chase spot in HSBC SVNS’ elite series
- Local sevens competition was proposed in strategic 10-year plan, which also aims to create role models to inspire engagement
- Hong Kong must leapfrog hosts Germany in this weekend’s closing Challenger Series leg to fight for promotion in Madrid grand finals
Head coach Jevon Groves has unequivocally backed plans for a domestic sevens tournament in Hong Kong.
Groves, who is in Germany for this weekend’s crunch final 2024 Challenger Series leg, said a new competition would unearth fresh talent, and “grow the game of sevens”.
The domestic sevens initiative features in a 10-year strategic plan released by the sport’s local governing body last month, although its timing and format remain under discussion.
“It is a great idea – the more we promote sevens in Hong Kong, and give chances for players to impress, the better,” Groves said. “This will provide an opportunity for players outside our system to put themselves forward [for Hong Kong selection].”
The 10-year plan identifies a link between success for Hong Kong teams and creating the role models who can inspire increased participation and engagement.
“The players are motivated to grow the game, in Hong Kong and internationally,” Groves said. “They are keen on getting into schools to deliver coaching clinics and engaging with the community game.”