Valentine's Day - Hong Kong Football Club

HONG KONG FOOTBALL CLUB FEBRUARY 2012

Celebrate

Valentine’s Dayat the Club!

In this issue: • Photos from the New Year’s Eve Party• Visit from 5-time Squash World Champion — Sarah Fitz-Gerald • Tour Reports from Dubai, Singapore and more!

Club MagazineMonthly 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. 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

General CommitteePresident : Dermot AgnewVice President : Nick HunsworthVice President : James Collins-TaylorVice President : Bobby LawsonVice President : Iain ValentineChairman : Fook Aun ChewHon. Secretary : John ShanahanHon. Treasurer : David HowellSports & Recreation : Philip WoolfDevelopment : Mark CliftDiscipline : Mike WoodConstitutional Affairs : Desmond KoMembership : Maurice O’BrienHockey Officer : Niccola RussoLawn Bowls Officer : Roger NissimRugby Officer : John MolloySoccer Officer : Martyn RussellSquash Officer : David Reeves

ManagementGeneral Manager : Mark PawleyDirector of Operations : Tony SealyDirector of Food & Beverage : Dominique ArtigolleFinancial Controller : Ricky ChanExecutive Chef : Lewis LauFacilities Manager : Evan TaoMembership Services Manager : Kerry OgleHuman Resources Manager : Angela ChanExecutive Housekeeper : Lily HuynhFront Office Manager : Shirley Lo

Vision: To be recognised as one of the leading sports clubs in the world.

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. To up-hold the Constitution and Bye-laws. To encourage Members to play their part in the Club.

MISSION STATEMENT

HONG KONG FOOTBALL CLUB

February 2012

The Thoughts of the Chairman ............................................. 2

From the Desk of Mark Pawley ............................................. 3

Food & Beverage .................................................................... 4

Photos from the New Year’s Eve Party ................................. 10

Rugby................................................................................... 12

Mini Rugby .......................................................................... 14

Soccer .................................................................................. 18

Junior Soccer ........................................................................ 21

Squash ................................................................................. 24

Hockey ................................................................................. 28

Lawn Bowls .......................................................................... 30

Netball ................................................................................. 34

Badminton ........................................................................... 36

Golf ..................................................................................... 37

Tennis .................................................................................. 38

Book and Movie Library ...................................................... 43

14 MINI RUGBY

24 SARAH FITZ-GERALD VISITS THE CLUB

12 RUGBY TOUR IN DUBAI

30 LAWN BOWLS

Cover photo: from www.dreamstime.com

2 Feb 2012

The Thoughts of the Chairman

Kung Hei Fat Choy!

A big welcome to the Year of the Dragon and wishing you all a very happy and prosperous Chinese New Year!

As always, the Club will have the traditional Lion Dance to welcome in the New Year and to usher in good fortune for the Club and its Members. This will be held on Sunday 5th February 2012 and will start at the front entrance of the Club at 12.30pm. It is always a great event for Members and their children to be present as it’s especially great fun for the kids who are constantly amazed at the skills and acrobatics of the lion dancers.

Many congratulations are in order to the Staff members pictured below who are the winners of the fourth quarter Star Award. The annual awards will be presented at the Staff Party to be held on Sunday 4th March 2012. Please note that as usual, the Club will close early on this day at 5pm and will reopen on Monday 5th March 2012 at 9am.

See you at the Club!

FOOK AUN CHEW Chairman

2011 Q4 STAFF STAR AWARDFrom left to right: Jinmei Huang (F&B - Steward), Max Kuo (Security)

and Vivian Yeung (F&B - Bar) with General Manager Mark Pawley

THE BRISBANE CLUB QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA

241 Adelaide Street, Brisbane, Queensland 4000, Australia

T: (07) 3222 8700

F: (07) 3221 2675

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.brisbaneclub.com.au

The Brisbane Club, one of Australia’s premier private clubs, has upheld a tradition of excellence since 1903.

With an emphasis on friendship, this unique meeting place plays host to memorable occasions and activities, continuing its success as a leading and progressive club, catering to professional and social interests of members and guests.

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.

Reciprocal Club

Club Magazine Feb 2012 3

From the Desk of Mark Pawley

For all those who attended the New Year’s Eve Party at the Club party, please see some of the photographs on pages 10 and 11 of this magazine. If you’re not pictured then please refer to the following web link (a bit long, I know): https://picasaweb.google.com/112646663751639329930/HKFCNewYear20111231?authkey=Gv1sRgCPGhlJTYxMGqAw/ where a few more photos can be viewed, and photographs downloaded, if required.

Once again the Food and Beverage Department have put together a number of promotions to run during the month of February. High on the list for those of you who are “game” is the Delightful Taste of Game promotion which runs throughout February, for dinner only except for Sunday evenings. In the Coffee Shop, we have the Fruits of the Sea Dinner Buffet on Friday and Saturday evenings in February and the Sportsman’s Bar is running a “Ribs” promotion and also its take on the classic “Ploughman’s Lunch”.

Whilst I know a lot of our Members currently make use of “Our Kitchen is Your Kitchen” for ordering quality “top notch” produce such as cold cuts, chilled meat and sustainable seafood etc, this is a timely reminder to those Members that either aren’t aware of it or simply haven’t tried it, as yet, to give it a go. I am sure you will not be disappointed. Order forms are available from the Coffee

Shop, Reception and by downloading the form from the Club website on www.hkfc.com.hk

For the first time ever we are putting on a Feng Shui Dinner on the nights of 10th and 24th February, hosted by Feng Shui Master Barry Lau (Chairman of the Counsellors and Director of the Hong Kong Feng Shui Association), who will talk about how to improve your luck, enjoy better health and how to earn more money!

Of course I mustn’t forget to mention St Valentine’s Day on Tuesday 14th February where we have a “Dining with Pleasure” Dinner in the Restaurant for those “romantic” types along with a Special Dinner Buffet at the Coffee Shop that I am told will cater for those that are slightly less inclined to want to eat alone with their “better” half !

To close, a little bit of “housekeeping” in respect of Car Park Labels – for those who have not yet exchanged their 2011 Car Park Label for the 2012 Car Park Label, “be warned”, you should have done so before the end of January!! Please therefore ensure you exchange labels (at Reception) as soon as possible or you may find yourselves excluded from parking your vehicle at the Club!

I look forward to seeing you all at the Club!

MARK PAWLEY General Manager

The Annual Staff Party will be held on Sunday 4th March

which will mean the Club will close its facilities (including the Car Park) at 5pm on Sunday 4th March.

The Club will re-open at 9am on Monday 5th March.

Club Closure for

Annual Staff Party on Sunday 4th March

4 Feb 2012

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Tuesday 14th February, 2012

Dining with PassionIn the RestaurantTime: 7.00pm – 10pm

Price: $580 per personA delightful 5-Course Dinner will be served

Executive Chef Lewis has created a special 5-course “his and her” menu, which comprises different dishes to appeal to feminine and masculine palates.

Please contact the Restaurant at 2830 9562 for reservation or email: [email protected]

Last day for cancellation: Monday 6th February 2012

** Cancellations made after this date will be charged in full to the Member’s account, unless there are exceptional circumstances.

* * * * *

Special Dinner Buffet At the Coffee Shop

Time: 6.30pm to 9.30pm Price: $248 per Adult; $135 per Child

Many people hold the view that Valentine’s Day is only about spending time with your sweetheart, but this occasion should not be confined only to lovers. Take the opportunity to express your love to your family by taking them to our Special Dinner Buffet in the Coffee

Shop for just $248 per Adult and $135 per Child.

In addition to the back-lit seafood corner filled with fresh oysters, we also feature specialties such as Miso Black Cod Teppanyaki, Flame-broiled Tiger Prawns and Roasted Prime Rib

of Beef.

For more information please call the Coffee Shop at 2830 9569 or email at [email protected]

The Club plays Cupid on

Valentine’s Day


FOOD & BEVERAGE

Life is too short to drink supermarket wine, so check out the very competitively priced selection this month. Great value for money…

Offer valid until 29th February 2012How to order?

• Please fill out the enclosed order form or pick up the form at the G/F Lobby or download it from our website www.hkfc.com.hk

• Fax it to: 2576 7598 or e-mail to: [email protected]

• Please allow 5 working days for the processing of your order

** Allocation is limited until stocks last ( on a first come first served basis)

Super Value for Money “Take-away Wine”

The Restaurant

Monday to Friday from Noon to 2.30pm

Set Lunch with Starter Buffet 2 Courses: $158 3 Courses: $178

LET’S DO LUNCH AT THE CLUB

The Coffee Shop

Monday to Thursday from Noon to 2.30pm Light Lunch Buffet

$128 (Adult) $70 (Child)

Friday to Sunday from Noon to 2.30pm

International Lunch Buffet $148 (Adult) $75 (Child)

The Chairman’s Bar

Monday to Friday from Noon to 2.30pm Express Set Lunch

4 Courses: $103

Our Kitchen is Your KitchenHave you noticed how your grocery bill increases week after week from your favourite supermarket? What can you do about it?

Easy! At the Hong Kong Football Club you can now purchase top-notch quality produce at an extremely reasonable price. From cold cuts, chilled meats, seafood to kids’ specials, the Club has everything a domestic epicurean craves.

So order now from our monthly selections of quality gourmet fare.

We believe, with us, you can go gourmet everyday!!

To place an order, either pick up an order form at the Reception or download the form on our website at www.hkfc.com.hk Ph

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6 Feb 2012

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Food and Wine Sales Counter with an Italian FlavourFriday 10th February to Sunday 26th February at the Ground Floor Lobby• A selection of food ready for takeaway

• A wide variety of wines available: Everyday drinking wines, Party wines and Fine wines

• We have something for every wine enthusiast.

OPENING HOURSMonday to Friday from 12.30pm to 9pm

Saturday, Sunday and Public Holiday from 11.00am to 9pm

CHAIRMAN’S BAR

OYSTERS IN THE EVENINGin the Chairman’s Bar

every day from 6.30pm to 10.30pm

throughout the month of February

- Get two jet-fresh oysters and a glass of Sparkling for just $98 or

- or 6 oysters and 2 glasses of Sparkling for $150

- or 12 oysters and 2 glasses of Sparkling for $250

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“WINE-DERFUL” WINE CAROUSELin the Chairman’s Bar

every day from 6pm to 10pm


From 6pm until 10pm daily, you can enjoy 2 hours of free-flowing wines specially selected to match the season at a set price of $140 per person.

There are 12 wines on offer. Alternatively you can select any two glasses of wine for only $75.

All these wines can be purchased from our takeaway list. Forms are available on our website or at Reception.

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MENUStarter

Caramel Seared Scallops on Pumpkin Purée and Parsley Risotto

* * * *

Middle Course

Seared Crusted Duck Breast with Confit Ravioli and Aged Balsamic Reduction

* * * *

Main Course

Slow Cooked Beef Tenderloin with Thyme-scented Sweet Potato, Parsnip Crisps and a Venezuelan and Red Wine

Sauce

* * * *

Dessert

Crème Brulée with Fresh Berries

* * * *

Freshly Brewed Tea or Coffee

Petits Fours

Do you want to learn your fortune in the Year of Dragon? Feng Shui Master Barry Lau, Chairman of Counsellors and Director of Training of the Hong Kong Feng Shui Association, will present tips on how to improve your luck, how to enjoy better health and earn more money! You are guaranteed to take away some Feng Shui wisdom in addition to savouring a 4-course dinner accompanied with fantastic wines!

Last day for cancellation: Friday 3rd February and Friday 17th February** Cancellation for F & B events received after the final cancellation date will be charged in full to the

Member ’s account unless there are exceptional circumstances.Please contact the Restaurant at 2830 9562 for a reservation or email: [email protected]

The Restaurant’s “Private Room”Date: 10th and 24th February 2012Time: 7:00pm to 10:00pmPrice: $438 (4-Course Dinner will be served with two selected wines)RSVP: 35 seats available onlyLanguage used: English and Chinese

Chairman of Counsellors and Director of Training of the Hong Kong Feng Shui Association

FENG SHUI DINNER presented by Master Barry Lau

8 Feb 2012

FOOD & BEVERAGE

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RESTAURANT

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT SUNDAY DINNER BUFFET: THE HARD SHELL DINNER BUFFET

in the Restaurant every Sunday evening from 6.30pm to 9.30pm throughout the month of February

February sees the Restaurant culinary team creating delicious dishes starring Lobsters, Prawns, Scallops, Mussels, Razor Clams and Crabs to name but a few.

Seafood lovers you are in for a treat…

$250 per Adult $138 per Child (age 12 and under)

Please contact the Restaurant at 2830 9562 for a reservation or email: [email protected]

Just as impressive, you can enjoy unlimited consumption of chilled juices, soft drinks, beer and house wine for just $55 per person.

Sunday Brunch continues in February with a themed musical performance to set the mood. A Jazz duo will get your feet tapping while you enjoy your brunch.

$245 per Adult (with unlimited flow of sparkling wine) $138 per Child (with soft drinks and chilled juice)

Please contact the Restaurant at 2830 9562 for a reservation or email: [email protected]

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.

SUNDAY BRUNCH WITH LIVE JAZZin the Restaurant and Chairman’s Bar from 11am to 2.30pm

DELIGHTFUL TASTE OF GAMEIn the Restaurant

every evening except Sunday

from 6.30pm to 9.30pm


European Game is still in season and our Executive Chef has prepared an array of game dishes for your enjoyment.

Indulge in our selection of fine wines to round off the experience.

Please contact the Restaurant at 2830 9562 for reservation or email: [email protected]

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COFFEE SHOP

“FRUITS OF THE SEA” DINNER BUFFETin the Coffee Shop

Friday and Saturday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm


This month, the dinner buffet features a wide variety of Asian and Western Seafood dishes, guaranteed to make you come back for more.

$248 per Adult $135 per Child (age 12 and under)

For more information please call the Coffee Shop at 2830 9569 or email at [email protected]

Just as impressive, enjoy an unlimited consumption of chilled juices, soft drinks, beer and house wine for just $55 per person.

CHOCOLATE AFTERNOON TEA SET in the Coffee Shop

afternoon from 3pm to 5.30pm


If you have a passion for chocolate delights, the mouth-watering Chocolate Afternoon Tea Set is just for you throughout the month of February.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

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CATERING SERVICEThe Club has a professional Catering Service team for Members offering a wide variety of value-added packages to suit your needs and occasions: Business Meetings, Cocktail Parties, Private Dinner Events, Barbeque Parties or Children’s Birthday Celebrations – all are catered for!

For enquiries and bookings call the Catering Office on 2830 9513 or email to [email protected]

10 Feb 2012

FOOD & BEVERAGE

FEBRUARY IN THE SPORTSMAN’S BAR

On the Screen

Rugby is back this month as the RBS Six Nations kicks off in Paris on Saturday 4th February with France hosting Italy, followed by Scotland vs England. Watch all 15 games live or replayed throughout February and March 2012.

With Soccer, we continue with the English Premier League, matches include:

- Chelsea vs Man Utd on Sunday 5th February, - Man Utd vs Liverpool on Saturday 11th February and - Arsenal vs Tottenham on Sunday 26th February.

With plenty of games going on this month, please make sure you check the Notice Boards for updated dates and times.

Food and Beverage:

Enjoy our signature Spare Ribs. More tender, more juicy, more choice! Indulge in the aroma of our ribs everyday!

The culinary team has also created its own version of the famous Ploughman’s Lunch. You can share it with friends or enjoy it all by yourself !

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Photos from the New Year’s Eve Party


Photos from the New Year’s Eve Partyhttps://picasaweb.google.com/112646663751639329930/HKFCNewYear20111231?authkey=Gv1sRgCPGhlJTYxMGqAw

12 Feb 2012

Antony Phillips, Section Captain

Section Captain’s Report

Rugby News

RUGBY

Kung Hei Fat Choy ~ shana tova ~ ath bhliain faoi mhaise ~ felix sit annus novus ~ gott nytt år ~ blwyddyn newydd dda ~ bliadhna mhath ur….

and so I could go on…! But indeed a very “HAPPY NEW YEAR” to all of you Club Members out there…( a couple of beers in the Sportsman’s for the first person to let me know where all those HNY’s are from)

So the second half of the season has kicked off already… the Drags and Scorps are sitting pretty at the top of their respective leagues. On Saturday 7th January, the Bulls won their league (for the 1st time ever)… I have said it before and will say it again but I was lucky enough to be in the changing room with the Bulls before they kicked off the game against CWB Marines to secure the league title and the unity and camaraderie in that squad is something to behold…at 17 games unbeaten, I hope their run of form takes them all the way and they are able to retain the Grand Champions title they won last year…and some of that unity and fire rubbed off on the Club side in the following match that day as they started 2012 with a nice little win over the Auld Enemy from down the Valley!!!

The business end of the season is well and truly underway and before you know it, it will be Grand Finals time…and then the Hong Kong Ten’s and of course the 7’s….

A little piece of housekeeping on both of those while I have your attention…The GFI HKFC Tens, is undoubtedly the world’s premier 10-a-side rugby tournament, and this year will be held on March 21st and 22nd (Wednesday and Thursday). Free for HKFC members, the popular event features the world’s leading club and invitational rugby teams. Rugby legends that have starred in recent tournaments include Jonah Lomu, Waisale Serevi, Justin Marshall, Christian Cullen, Brian Lima and Rugby World Cup winners George Gregan, Bobby Skinstad, Jerome Kaino and Conrad Smith.

The race for 7’s Tickets will also soon be on, so Section members should make sure they are registered on the Rugby Section website, as moving forward, ALL Section information and details will be sent out via here, so register and make sure you are kept in the loop.

http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/hongkongfootballclub/

HKFC Rugby Section Centurions….We mentioned a few months back about the launch of the Rugby Section Centurions…and how to become one…the criteria is easy…10 years as a member of the Section or 100 games played for the Section…and we have had our first batch of Centurions come forward and present themselves…

Damian BabisIain BrownBill BurgessTom CameronAli ChaudryRob ChristieJames CookKeith GauntlettGary LamStuart LeckieBill MasonJohn MolloyIan PetersenDave ‘Animal’ SlaterJason TomsWarren WarnerColin WongBrian WongCraig WoottenCharlie Yeomans

These members will be part of the inaugural induction onto the Centurions board later in the year, and they will have a snazzy new blazer with a unique badge, so if you think that you fit the bill and meet the criteria and have one or two people that can vouch for you…then get in touch with Animal ([email protected]) and present your case.

As the colder weather comes in….we still have a few of the 125 year Anniversary Shirts for sale and are hoping that they will be in the Club Shop very soon so if you haven’t already got one, make sure you grab this piece of excellent memorabilia, both in long and short sleeve.

They say when one door closes another opens and I would like to take this opportunity to wish our 1st XV Captain Stephen ‘ Horse’ Nolan a speedy recovery from the ankle injury sustained on National team duty which is likely to have prematurely ended his season…but as Horse starts to focus on his


Rugby News

RUGBY

rehab in time for the 7’s season…I would like to congratulate Tom “Bo-lash” Bolland and Lloyd “Shilo” Jones on their promotion to Captain and Vice Captain respectively. Well done Bolland…(consider this an early wedding present from the boys!) and Mazel Tov Lloyd!!

I have attached a photo of Horse collecting his first cap from Hong Kong head coach Dai Rees at the earliest possible opportunity…

Here are a few words on the tour from our very own GAS-MAN, Adam ‘Rainman’ Raby:

The Inaugural Cup of Nations:By Adam Raby

The Dubai tour was a great success. Lots of the HKFC boys, Dan Watson, Stephen Nolan, Tom

Bolland, and Ian Ridgeway, made their debut representing Hong Kong and made a great impact upon the National Team setup.

The first game was against the UAE and was quite an easy win for the team as we worked well together.

Following the UAE game we had a day off and went to Dubai’s Water Park, located next to the Burj Al Arab. The building was incredible and the security for the supposedly 6 star (?) hotel was ridiculous. The Water Park was good fun and a nice opportunity for the boys to relax and celebrate the win against UAE.

The next day we had a game against Kenya, who are ranked one below Hong Kong in the IRB ranking. The first half proved to be a tough battle, but the Hong Kong players fought back for a comfortable win. The win against Kenya put us in an ideal position to win the Cup of Nations.

Given another two days of rest before the final, the team took to the sand dunes in the desert and had the chance to go duning in Jeeps. We also had our best meal out in the desert; a complete feast of Middle Eastern dishes. We also got a chance to explore the shopping scene in Dubai. The city feels almost as if countries around the world gathered and placed their most popular shops, restaurants, etc. in one place. The side of Dubai that we saw that day was almost entirely artificial but amazing!

The final game was against Brazil,

which we knew would be our toughest game yet as they pushed Kenya to their absolute limits earlier on in the tournament. The game proved to be really difficult. It was an extremely physical game and the HKFC front row boys were key to our win over the Brazilians. With the win we won the Cup of Nations. Unfortunately, during the game, Steven Nolan (Captain of the Club XV), who played a great tournament, broke his ankle and will be out for quite some time.

The tour was great and proved that with the right people involved (especially the involvement of the HKFC boys), Hong Kong can play cohesively and with good pace.

Many thanks to Adam for that report, it seems while the intensity of the National team trip was high on the pitch, the boys still had a chance to enjoy themselves and the eight HKFC players in the squad bodes well for the Asian 5 Nations tournament coming up later in the year. Hopefully we will have some of those guys running out on their home pitch in front of a home crowd!!

Well Ladies and Gents, that brings us to the end of another month, and we will see you all down on the park or in the stands on Saturdays as the season moves towards a conclusion. No doubt the rugby on the pitch will be heating up in the next few weeks!!

Regards, Antony Phillips

Above left: (L to R): Mike McKeeGuy PaynPeter McKeeTom BollandDan WatsonIan RidgwayStephen NolanAdam Raby

Above: Game against Brazil

14 Feb 2012

Mini Rugby News

MINI RUGBY

Teams from Hong Kong Football Club Mini Rugby U9 to U12 participated in the Flying Kukris Festival at King’s Park on 11th December , the coldest day of the month. Some silverware was won and coaches reported rapidly improving skills together with enjoyable games played with resolve. Players, parents and supporters enjoyed the full contact tournament.

Enthusiasm and improving skills on display for U9-U12 at Flying Kukris Festival

U12The Flying Kukris Tournament mixed the delight of FC2’s Plate victory and promotion to the Cup Division, with the disappointment for FC1 missing out on the Cup for the first time this season. FC3 maintained their Plate Division status but it was disappointment once again for FC4, who lost their unbeaten record and were not able to win the Shield.

FC2 continued their strong season with four wins and a draw with VF2, which left both sides on 14 points, but FC2 winning the promotion based upon a better try scoring ratio. Strong forwards play and free-scoring backs marked another excellent outing. Their next challenge is to retain their Cup Division place.

FC3, also competing in the Plate, gave another creditable performance with two wins, a draw and two defeats, to finish third in the table.

For FC4, a third place finish behind DEA2 and TSW following a steady two wins and two losses.

In the Cup Division, FC1 struggled to hit the heights of earlier tournaments, with sluggish performances (punctuated by infringements) in their first three matches. Their best performance came against eventual Cup winners DBP, who had scored heavily in preceding matches. This match ended in a relatively one-sided, nil all draw, with constant pressure on DBP’s line, including FC1 crossing their line on three occasions, but being adjudged to have knocked on each time. Thus it came down to the final matches with DBP1 and FC1 needing to win their last games and FC1 having an inferior try difference. FC1 tasted defeat for the first time this season losing to SKS1 1-0 while DBP1 comfortably beat VF1.

Russell Henderson


MINIRUGBY

Charging into a 2012 season of pure rugby fun

On behalf of Hong Kong Football Club Mini Rugby, very best wishes for 2012 and the Chinese New Year to our players, families, coaches/managers and volunteers.

Following on from the western New Year on 1st January, Christmas festivities and as we move more fully into 2012, it’s time to reflect on a season that we are more than half way through. From the successes and learnings of the DEA Tigerfest, HKU Sandy Bay and the Flying Kukris (for U9-12s) festivals with some teams winning silverware and everybody having pure fun, it’s been a great season already. What’s been most encouraging has been the enjoyment and passion for rugby which players are bringing to their training sessions and games. The development of skills and teamwork is really starting to consolidate and work.

We’ve had a very successful tour to Singapore and another is planned to Kuala Lumpur for February. The family BBQ in November was a huge success with hundreds of players and family members turning out to create a special event with a rugby community atmosphere on the Training Triangle and to support Newedge Club’s first game (and win!) against HK Scottish.

The ‘One Club’ philosophy at Hong Kong Football Club’s Rugby Section has really moved to a higher level this year. As part of this unified approach across all age groups, more mini rugby players are turning up on Saturday evenings as supporters and mascots to run onto the pitch with Club Senior teams. Club players are joining our training sessions regularly to provide advice, tips and support for our stars of tomorrow. Our coaches have been provided with access to an unprecedented amount of training.

The year ended on a high with 11 of our HKFC U12 team selected for the Hong Kong Island squad to play the Peninsula team on New Year’s Day at HKFC. Congratulations on your first representative selection: Kai Miles, Jon Simpson, Adrian Lee, Josh Pulvirenti, Cameron Henderson, Nicholas Spence, Jack Abbott, Sam Lawson, Calvin Harris, Josh O’Toole and Jean Louis Desgouttes.

Thank you to the players who are giving their best every week and bringing a tremendous sense of fun to their efforts. Thanks also to parents and families who provide support and encouragement to players as well as their time and efforts assisting the Mini Rugby section. I’d also like to thank our committee members, coaches/managers and the Club Staff for their support of Mini Rugby.

We have an action-packed second half of the season including with more festivals, including our own, the KL tour and the Rugby 7s showcase.

Kevin Taylor Chairman, HKFC Mini Rugby

U11Hornets

The Hornets had a mixed tournament with one win, one draw and a loss. The day started early against Valley who dominated us in set piece and at the breakdown. We recovered from an early try to draw level through Nathan Sweeney and despite not having a lot of ball managed to maintain pressure and put ourselves in reach of victory. We then faced a fired up Sai Kung who hammered us from the start. We did not respond well and fell behind by a try. Again, the boys rallied but could not get the equaliser and so Hornets took their first loss of the season against a better team. Atonement came in the last match with a very impressive 4 to 1 victory over DEA Tigers. This was the Hornets back to their best, with great commitment at the breakdown, fast hands through the backs and relentless pressure. It was most pleasing to see how the team responded to the set back of Sai Kung and shows there is real resolve. Best on the day were Tom Angell, Justin McCarthy and James Wright.

Sculls (combined Scorpions and Bulls teams)

With a combined squad of 16 players the Sculls had six games to start to turn their season around to a more positive note. As with early matches we have been slow out of the starting gate and our opponents have benefited from this. So again it was this weekend with losses to Valley and TSW Eagles. However with some added injection of pace and experience from Hornets and Vipers, the Sculls took the field against the Sai

16 Feb 2012

MINIRUGBY

Kung 2nd team and there we turned the corner. With more running from depth, aggressive rucking and scrumming from our forwards as well as some terrific tackling we drew 1-1 with a very determined and well drilled Sai Kung team. Our concentration lapsed in the next game letting us give away an early try against THT which we never got to terms with but our progress did not falter and we began to find the try line with exceptional back and forward play that resulted in finishing the day off with wins against DEA and Monkeys. Ending the year with two wins and a draw leaves me with great encouragement for our squad with an exciting 2012 ahead.

Vipers

The Vipers got off to an unfortunate start against Valley Fort 2 losing 3 - 0 and the Referee not being consumed with festive cheer disallowed what would have been a well worked try. There was little difference between the two sides other than the Vipers’ tackling and body angles at the break down (but these are fundamental to the Vipers’ improvement).

The rest of the tournament was a story of some very well drilled and tough opposition with the Vipers finally finding their inner strength against Hong Kong University 1 team when they had already conceded too many points to get anything from the game. The University team made capital of their early Christmas present putting the Vipers to a 7 - 0 loss.

Valley Fort 3 proved the most competitive game with the sides evenly matched with the Vipers unfortunate not to come away with a small gift - the VF3 scrum half made a solo effort from the base of the scrum to go over immediately on the final whistle.

A well-drilled Discovery Pirates 1 team rounded off the tournament

with the Vipers losing after putting in great effort but unable to live with this tough side.

Euan Mcleod

U10An excellent afternoon of rugby with FC1 continuing to improve nicely, a narrow loss to Valley 1’s in the first game was followed by a titanic draw against Sandy Bay 1’s 0-0 with both teams playing terrific rugby followed by an excellent 5-0 win against DEA in the final game. FC2, FC3 and FC4 also showed terrific improvement with wins under their belt. Tight defence remains evident across the age group and this remains the key to winning games. The boys are really stepping up to the mark and we look forward to 2012, playing terrific rugby at all the levels.

Kevin Taylor and Michael Phillip

U9The unseasonally cold early morning weather could not dent the enthusiasm of the 68 U9 HKFC players who turned out at the Flying Kukris Festival on 11th December.

The make-up of our six U9 teams was badly disrupted by illness, the conflicting Professional Sevens and premature vacations. It did not matter. The instinctive flexibility of the coaches and the unstinting willingness of so many players to guest for others meant our mix-and-match teams very much gave as good as they got. We ended up winning more than losing. And laughing more than crying (just about).

Special mention goes to Ronan Reynolds, Dylan McCann, Clement Beylier, Joe Shale, Aiden Cheung, Amar Jaswal, Gordon Siu, Tom Delf and Hudson Lo for their tireless work

and inspirational play. Tackling and rucking are the two big areas of focus for the U9s going forward and all of these players led well by example.

A big shout out goes to the organisers from the Flying Kukris. This was an excellent day out and a great debut for an all-contact tournament. Hopefully it will be the first of many and we look forward to seeing you all again next year.

Tony Shale

Girls’ Mini Rugby

The Flying Kukris Festival was exciting for the U10 Girls team. At the end of the day they had three wins and one draw. From the first game, the girls found their groove passing, rucking and scoring. The coaches were unable to pick a player of the day because each girl contributed in every way in every game. Lauren Young and Anna Rove had several tries and Tara Gerjarusak was named the most improved player of the day. The U12 Girls team joined several other clubs to make a barbarian team, a true demonstration of good sportsmanship and the desire to play. Portia Freeman scored tries in several games and even took it one step further joining the Flying Kukris in the afternoon plate division games to help them have a complete team. The mini rugby U10 and U12 girls are welcoming new players, come down to give rugby a try on a Sunday morning!

Liz Moser


U12

The tour did not get off to a good start with the cancellation of the festival three days before departure. However after some quick phone calls we were

able to arrange other events at an alternative venue.

On Saturday the under 12s got off to a solid start beating the Singapore Dragons. The second game against Tanglin was a hard fought game but with a comfortable win for HKFC. We were all gearing up for a big showdown against Centaurs when the heavens opened and a thunder and lightning storm came through and washed out the rest of play.

Sunday took on a new opportunity for the players while combining with the stronger players of the under 11s playing 15-a-side games against Tanglin. It was a new challenge for our players not used to playing with the extra space. The forwards were once again solid with strong performances by Josh P and Kai Miles creating space and opportunities for the running backs. Jack Abbot at first receiver guided the team around the field nicely and set up some nice back tries to ensure the HKFC won the first three games. By the time the fourth game came around our players were feeling the heat and were tired, along with a few injuries, held on to lose 3-1. It was a mighty effort for all the tourists. A special thank you needs to be said to Terry Wright and the under 11s who joined in. They all played with great spirit and were not overwhelmed by the occasion. I am sure playing the 15-a-side games was a new experience for the players and they look forward to more opportunities in the future.

Stephen Niven

Competitive rugby and great times for playersin SingaporeA Mini Rugby trip to Singapore went ahead despite the decision to cancel the Centaurs International Youth Rugby and Touch Tournament due to weeks of incessant rainfall and concerns about infrastructure at their grounds. Games were organised at alternative venues, and great times were enjoyed.

U10

Despite the cancellation of the official tour HKFC U10s rustled up 13 players to travel to Singapore for make up games against some terrific competition. On the opening day of the tournament we started with a couple of losses against Tanglin and then firmly woke up and went into overdrive with a 55-0 win against Dolphins and we were winning 10-0 against Centaurs when lightning closed off the day early.

The following day we played some great rugby against Tanglin and Centaurs with wins, draws and losses against both teams. HKFC more than matched the competition and demonstrated how competitive we are now becoming. It was a terrific tour enjoyed by all. Many thanks to the Singapore clubs who went to great lengths to ensure the kids got plenty of rugby over the two days. The highlight remains the chilli crab dinner at East Coast Seafood on Saturday evening.

Kevin Taylor and Michael Phillip

MINIRUGBY

18 Feb 2012

Soccer News

Scott Semple, Soccer Section Captain

SOCCER

Hello hello and a Kung Hei Fat Choy to one and all and welcome to the Year of the Dragon! According to what I have managed to find out, we have entered the year of the Water Dragon and to many it carries the pearl of opportunities and usually signifies good luck. It seems that most of our teams

within the Section could do with a few breaks so here’s hoping it’s true!

In this month’s edition we’ve got a review of the social match of the year, which is the traditional Scotland vs England clash on Boxing Day. There was the Christmas Quiz hosted in the Sportsman’s Bar over the festive period, plus the usual fixture list.

As usual the fixtures for all the non-social teams are listed on these pages and as you will see there are a few home fixtures for HKFC First Team as well as Lucky Mile. If anyone has yet to come along to one of these games then they should do what they can to get along to Sports Road and cheer the lads on. In fact that applies to every team in the Section as any support at all is always gratefully received from the coaches and players in what is always a crucial part of the season.

On the horizon we have the HKFC International Soccer 7’s to look forward too. I know that the organising committee is already setting the wheels in motion to make this the biggest and best tournament to date. The actual tournament will take place from Friday 18th May until Sunday 20th May. More details of this to come in the coming months.

In the mean time, may I wish you all Health, Wealth, Happiness and Prosperity in the coming year.

Cheers,

Scott

Section Captain’s ReportSoccer Section Fixtures for February:

HKFA Division 2:Sunday 5th February 2012:1:30pm – Kwun Tong vs HKFC (Po Kong Village #1)

Sunday 12th February 2012: 1:30pm – Double Flower vs HKFC (Aberdeen SG)

Saturday 25th February 2012: 8:15pm – HKFC vs Happy Valley (HKFC)

HKFA Division 3A:Saturday 4th February 2012: 8:15pm – Lucky Mile vs Fire Services (HKFC)

Saturday 11th February 2012: 8:15pm – Lucky Mile vs Sai Kung Friends (HKFC)

Sunday 26th February 2012: 1:30pm – Telecom vs Lucky Mile (Ma On Shan RG)

YYL Division 1:

Sunday 5th February 2012:3:00pm – Swiss XI vs Club Wanderers (HKFC)

4:30pm – Antonhill vs Club Albion (HKFC)

6:00pm – Club Colts vs German All Stars (HKFC)

Sunday 19th February 2012:3:00pm – Club Wanderers vs Club Colts (HKFC)

4:30pm – Club Albion vs KCC Knights (HKFC)

Sunday 26th February 2012: 3:00pm – HKDC Mobsters vs Club Wanderers (HKFC)

4:30pm – HKDC Squadron vs Club Albion (HKFC)

6:00pm – Club Colts vs KCC Dragons (HKFC)

YYL Cup:Saturday 4th February 2012:Still to be drawn (All YYL Club teams still in draw!)


SOCCER

England manager Terry Harris looked very dapper in his suit and sparkling red and white tie; there was no doubt he was taking his first foray into management

very seriously. Kieran Flynn, was his right-hand-man on the day and no doubt he was able to pass on any tips from his vast experiences in this fixture.

As for Scotland they were once more guided by the wily Tommy Vincent.

To give you an insight into the inner sanctum of what gets said in the dressing room, Tommy kept his pre-match speech short and sweet “Right lads, that’s England out there we are facing and this is Boxing Day, so let’s get Boxing!”. Churchillian I’m sure you will agree. Thankfully Mark Healy was on hand to provide a more tactical and insightful approach to proceedings!

Ahead of the match both teams had traded squad lists to make sure both teams were following the social spirit of the game, when I’m sure they just really wanted to see what youth and first team players each team had! Thankfully the balance of both teams was just about right.

Soon the game was underway and both teams started with a similar 4-4-2 formation giving a statement of intent that both thought the other was there for the taking! And what ensued was probably the finest Boxing Day display I have witnessed as both sides played crisp passes and all at a high tempo....was this really the day after Christmas Day?!

England started briskly, with Mike Duggan as spritely as ever and Mark Hulbert making a handful of himself to the starting, or should that be startled Scottish centre-back pairing of Jamie Milne and Niall Bennie. Without too much time on the clock

England made it one-nil through some fine midfield play leading to a terrific finish from Michael Campion giving Scotland goalie Sash Palatnikov no chance. If anything that awoke the Scots and soon the full backs of Mark Bavis and Robin Shek helped to smother the incoming attacks of Jason Tack and Paul Jarrett.

The English full-back pairing of Finnbar Cornwall and Tony Bratsanos were taking everything in their strides. Tony, in particular, was throwing back the years with a sterling performance and some fine interceptions. They certainly gave both “Scottish” wingers Amro Abbas and Freek Schipper plenty to think about in the first half. But soon Scotland settled and managed to get a grip of the game and John Casey began to shine in the middle of the park. This was helped in no end by the experience from classy midfielder and Scotland’s captain for the day Andy Hunter. Both Amro and Freek were starting to make decent inroads down the flanks and it seemed like it was only a matter of time before an equaliser came along and it soon did in the most controversial fashion! Following some fine play down the right the ball made its way into the box and John Casey cleanly struck a controlled volley towards the roof of the net, only to be punched over the bar with cat-like reflexes by England’s captain of the day Richard Lant. It was a most impressive save and the only problem for England is Lanty was playing at centre-half ! “What do you expect with a role model like John Terry” was heard from the stands!

Referree Godwin had no other choice but to point to the spot and send the recently turned half-centurion Geordie to the stands.

Amro then stepped up to confidently stroke the ball in the net, sending goalkeeper YK Poon the wrong way to level the score.

Scotland vs England Annual Boxing Day Clash!On what was a fairly grey and chilly Boxing Day morning the players and families of Scotland and England slowly awoke from their respective Christmas Day slumbers to make their way down to Sports Road to represent their countries. The cobwebs were shaken off as it was soon down to business.

TEAM ENGLAND:Terry Harris Kieran FlynnMike DugganMark HulbertMichael CampionJason Tack Paul JarrettFinnbar CornwallTony BratsanosRichard LantYK PoonDave ShawDane FrancisRob WindmillStephen LiuMelvyn FordCarlo DiliberoDanny Beattie

TEAM SCOTLAND:Tommy VincentMark Healy Jamie MilneNiall BennieSash Palatnikov Mark BavisRobin Shek Amro AbbasFreek SchipperJohn CaseyAndy HunterCharlie Hunter Jason LangstonMike WilsonJohn McLennanPaul EwingScottt SempleStewart McInnes Einar StraumeMax WoolfStephen LauchlanRussell Henderson

20 Feb 2012

SOCCER

In the spirit of Christmas though (and because the penalty was scored!), Scotland allowed their neighbours from south of the border to remain at 11 men, but on the premise that big Lanty remained in the stands by way of punishment. The momentum was now Scotland’s and as they pushed forward once more another goal was scored to take the lead. Yet again the impressive John Casey was in the heart of the goal as a he sweetly struck a long range half-volley that YK couldn’t hold and Charlie Hunter was there in a flash to knock over the line much to the delight of the clans that had gathered in the stands.

There was then a re-shuffle at the back for England as the impressive Danny Beattie was joined by Jason at the heart of defence and with nothing seeming to be happening for Scotland’s Mike Wilson, he was soon replaced by debutant Jason Langston.

At the start of the second half both teams made a flurry of changes. Danny Beattie had departed and did so without being nut-megged (result!), and with even more lashings of Christmas spirit the England side were allowed to re-instate big Lanty. Whoever said the Scots weren’t generous?!

England brought on big Dave Shaw in goals, along with Dane Francis and Rob Windmill – They also surprisingly brought on fullback Stephen Liu. Surprising to Scotland as he’d been sat on their bench for the first half ! John McLennan, Paul Ewing, Stewart McInnes and yours truly were all introduced for Scotland and this is where it all seemed to fall down! I of course blame the other three! In the opening 15-20 minutes of the second half England were in full control of the game and before long the scores were level.

Following yet another attack Melvyn Ford was adjudged to have been held back in the box and it gave Godwin no option but to point to the spot. Up stepped Melv and he somehow managed to hit the slowest penalty in the history of football, yet it somehow managed to send Sash the wrong way. 2-2 and game on!

England weren’t finished yet and more was to come. There was no doubt in my mind who was pulling the strings for England, though as both Carlo Dilibero and Campo paraded their skills throughout the entire match. By this point it was one-way traffic and chance after chance came and went for England as chances fell to Rob and Melv. Soon enough the Scots were breached once more as Carlo ran through to coolly finish giving England a thoroughly deserving lead. With a little bit more luck and without some fine goalkeeping from Sash, England could have had this game wrapped up.

However as the clock ran down and with plenty still to play for Scotland, a final flurry of substitutions ensued as Einar Straume, Max Woolf, Stephen Lauchlan and Russell Henderson were all thrown on. The tide was starting to turn and the confidence in Scotland grew. At one point, and with his back to the oncoming England midfielder, Bavo even managed to turn, flick the ball over the bewildered player and stroll on as if he’s been doing it for years! I had to wonder if I was still drunk from the night before!

It was at this point I thought I had better make my mark and add to my growing reputation as someone that popped up in the right place at the right time, otherwise known as a jammy so and so! John Casey

had been brought back on and with Scotland having been awarded a free-kick 30 or so yards out, he sent a lovely cross to the back post and through some fantastic control and quick thinking Stew McInnes sent a perfect low hard drive back across the face of goal. England goalkeeper Shawry stretched every sinew to grab it, but only managed to knock it into my path, so with 3 minutes to go on the clock and being 3 yards out from goal and with sheer instinct and ice running through my veins I confidently drilled the ball low and true into the corner of the net with my left foot - I tell you it’s great writing your own match report! Okay, I’ll confess it wasn’t exactly like that as in reality my life flashed before my eyes and there was nothing other than sheer panic as I weighed up the prospect of trying to take a touch and get it back onto my right foot! It could have gone anywhere but thankfully for Scotland it trundled in and the game was level.

And that’s how it finished. The final score was 3-3 and with Scotland having won the trophy the previous year, they retained the trophy as well as bragging rights on the patio afterwards as we all enjoyed a Curry Buffet. Star performers on the day for me were both Carlo and Campo for England and John Casey and Bavo for Scotland.

Overall it was a terrific day, the match was enjoyable and played in the right spirit, and with the junior football both before and after the senior “exhibition” match it made it a feast of football. From start to finish it was a very perfect day out. What better way to spend Boxing Day than with friends, family, and a feast of football!

Scott Semple

Christmas Quiz in the Sportsman’s!Right in the heart of the Christmas “silly” season, when it seems there is a social event every night of the week, I attended, along with many other members of the Section, the monthly quiz in the Sportsman’s bar. I must admit that this was the first quiz I have ever attended in the Sportsman’s and it didn’t disappoint.

I’m sure this was down to the fact that the quiz was put together and hosted by our very own Soccer Section and special thanks for an evening of fun and entertainment go to Santa Claus for the evening, Jamie Milne, Rudolf

the Red Nosed Reindeer; Jeremy Gill, plus the band of sprightly elves; Kieran Flynn, Matt Paterson, Michael Campion, Andy Bratsanos and Gilbert Collins.

Great effort lads and well done! I’ll certainly be back next year!

Thanks also go to Kenny, Karen, Raymond, Eva, Bowie, Kirk, Samson and all the Staff in the Sportsman’s for a terrific evening and for continually looking after everyone in the Section over the previous year. It’s always much appreciated!


Junior Soccer NewsMecoGroup

JUNIOR SOCCER

Boxing Day is Footy DayHKFC Junior Soccer Boxing Day Challenge Trophy Matches 2011

In support of the annual Boxing Day clash of ‘representative’ England and Scotland teams played by our ‘older’ players, the HKFC Junior Soccer programme is building up a series of Boxing Day Challenge matches for our younger players with the HKFC Boxing Day Challenge Trophies to play for. Four matches took place on the day sandwiching the main feature match, with the Year 7s (born 2000) kicking off against old foes Hong Kong Football Academy at 10am, then following the ‘old boys’ the P6s (born 2001) took on Brazilian Soccer Schools. Both of these matches saw the players move up to an 11-a-side format on the full pitch, many for the first time in their lives, something that makes these matches extra special. Following the P6s, the P5s played their Challenge match against Tai Tam Tigers on half the pitch and the day was rounded out by a friendly match between players mixed from our own U14 and U15 age groups.

With some light refreshments and a few drinks post-match on the Sportsman’s Bar Patio, a great day was had by all. Thanks to the visiting teams, the refs, our coaches: Russell Henderson, (Y7), Phil Cook (P6), Pat Burns (P5), Kevin Herbert (U14) and Paul Chillingworth (U15).

Here are reports on three of the matches:

HKFC Y7s vs HKFA A resounding six nil victory for the home side

Boxing Day, 2011, and the HKFC team took on a strong HKFA side, in the second annual Boxing Day P7 Challenge Trophy. The home side went on to secure the trophy in a 6-0 win, although the tight first half, ending in 0-0 showed this was not a one sided contest. HKFC had selected a strong side, although in the early stages of the match, it was HKFA who looked the more threatening, the vistors striking the cross bar from a long range free-kick.

It took 10 minutes for HKFC’s first threat, a shot from Cameron Henderson, that was well saved by the HKFA goalkeeper. As the first half drew to a close, striker Sean Leung, who had played strongly on the left side of the attack ran onto a through ball, and was in on goal but delayed his shot slightly, and it was blocked by a defender. In the second half, the sun started to brighten up and so did the HKFC players. After five minutes, a well worked passing move from goalkeeper to front, down the right side, involving Marc Chan, saw Eric Winborn thread a pass through to Cameron Henderson, who timed his run to stay onside and beat HKFA defenders, and slot the ball past the goalkeeper into the net.

That seemed to be the breaking point for the HKFA, because minutes later, Cameron Henderson ran onto another through pass to score his second.

Five minutes after the second goal, HKFC were awarded a free kick on the edge of the area. It was taken by Nicholas Spence, who’s powerful shot was fumbled by the keeper and slipped into the net. Apart from a few sprints down the right from HKFA’s central midfielder, HKFA hadn’t offered much threat, but from one breakaway, HKFC goalkeeper, Jean Louis Desgouttes had to dive to his left to beat away a fierce drive and preserve his clean sheet. The HKFC midfield four had established dominance in that area and the pressure resumed on the visitors. It was fitting that man of the match, Captain, Harry Overman scored, picking up a poor clearance from the HKFA goalkeeper and drilling in an unstoppable shot from outside the box for 4-0. A fifth goal was not long in coming, a James Gostik shot from the left was partially saved and Cameron Henderson reacted quickest to slide in the rebound, to seal his hat-trick. The final goal, capping an excellent overall first experience of 11 a side football for most players, came with 2 minutes to go, when Jack Dale drilled in a shot which flew high into the HKFA net. A great result but

22 Feb 2012

more importantly a great opportunity for both sides to get more experience on the ‘big stage’.

Star Players: • Cameron Henderson (3) • Nicholas Spence (1) • Harry Overman (1)

Russell Henderson, (Acting) Y7 Head Coach

HKFC P6s vs BSSAn honourable draw

The morning after the excitement and indulgence of Christmas Day may have looked rather a challenging time to get a team of 10 year olds (and more reasonably, their parents) out onto the football pitch. However, the prospect was one clearly embraced by the squad, especially given this was to be a rare chance to play an 11-a-side game, and against one of their great rivals.

The BSS guys clearly had the same attitude as some 20 players plus a large and supportive group of parents turned up. They were somewhat nervous we were told, a chance to play on the HKFC pitch was greatly

appreciated and little things like seeing their team name on the scoreboard meant a great deal.

Nervous they may have been, but BSS are a more than handy team, taking the Brazilian bit of their name to heart (down Chris, no sign of Pelé!). Both sides looked to be enjoying the freedom the larger playing area gave them and the opening period of the game was marked by quite a number of runs and moves using the width of the pitch, and the pleasing discovery that quite a number of the lads can cross a ball. And quite a few were more than able in heading as well. It is fair to say that HKFC were having the better of the first 15 minutes, with the BSS keeper needing to be alert and strong with his handling. So, as is often the case in a

situation like this, BSS scored first. It is fair to say that HKFC failed to deal with a good ball out to the right wing and the subsequent cross, allowing a neat finish from about 8 yards out.

The HKFC squad have a lot of fight about them these days, and continued as if nothing had happened. They carried on providing most of the attacking movement, and less than 5 minutes later were level. Simon Dupond, more known for his ability to score with his head, collected a clearance from a corner and from fully 20 yards out sent the kind of volley most of us can only dream of hitting sailing into the top corner.

One all at half time, and despite HKFC having much of the play in the second, so it remained at the end. We had a number of efforts on target but the replacement keeper proved every bit as reliable as his predecessor and his team mates extremely disciplined and structured in defence. We agreed to share the trophy, sending one side home as losers would have been a harsh reward for what was a hugely entertaining, and high quality game. The trophy was presented to captain Callum Beattie and man of the match Nathan Sweeney.

Phil Cook, P6 Head Coach

HKFC P5s vs Tai Tam TigersGreat game. Good result.

Boxing Day at 2pm is traditionally a time for recovering from a busy Christmas Day. This may be the case for some, however for a group of U10 players this was an opportunity to play for the inaugural U10’s Boxing Day Challenge Trophy vs Tai Tam Tigers.

The 8-a-side match on half the Main Pitch was the first time both sides would be playing this format, and it showed in the first 10 minutes with both sides struggling to find any rhythm. Eventually the pattern of play formed with both teams playing some good football leading to Tai Tam justifiably taking the lead. This only

JUNIOR SOCCER


seemed to spur on the HKFC boys to up their game with Ryutaro Sekino hitting the crossbar from 20 yards before Gwion Sexton equalised for the Club followed by Hamish Tong putting the Club team 2-1 up - a lead that stretched through to half time.

The second half started in a similar vein with both teams going close and both defences holding the back line well, with strong performances from Mark Russell, Theo Murphy and Joseph Burns. The midfield of Gwion, Josh Mantle and Hamish were controlling the midfield with James Francis leading the front line which lead

to a second goal for Gwion stretching our lead to 3-1. Tai Tam, not to be outdone, upped their game bringing the score back to 3-2, Daniel Kershaw in goal did well covering behind his defence ensuring we retained our lead before Club extended the lead twice with a goal from James and a penalty from Hamish to make it 5-2 to Club, prior to Tai Tam breaking through for a consolation goal. Final score 5-3 which on balance was a fair result with good performances from both teams in another hard fought game against the Tigers, our third this season to-date.

Pat Burns, P5 Head Coach

HKFC U10’s Team: Daniel Kershaw, Mark Russell, Joseph Burns, Theo Murphy, Josh Mantle, Gwion Sexton, Hamish Tong, Ryutaro Sekino, James Francis.

So all in all, a fantastic day of footy for the Christmas season. Given the success of the day, the HKFC Junior Soccer programme is keen to continue to grow and develop this event to become a regular fixture in the HKFC Soccer calendar. Happy New Year!

Chris Plowman, Chairman, HKFC Junior Soccer

JUNIOR SOCCER

24 Feb 2012

Squash News

November was a great month for squash with five-time World Champion Sarah Fitz-Gerald from Australia coming to the Hong Kong Football Club for a visit. A huge thank you to our major sponsor of this event

Anson Au-Yeung of Meco Group for their continued support with squash to make this all possible. We would also like to thank our other sponsors 2XU, Up N Go Design and Blade, as well as Adam Wilson and the Squash Committee as well as the Hong Kong Football Club for their support during this event.

Sarah Fitz-Gerald arrived to a warm welcome by the Club and sponsors at a racing night to witness something special, Malcolm Kerr winning 50 cents!!!

It was all work after that point with Sarah running multiple squash clinics for some of our adult and junior players.

Friday afternoon Sarah helped to run the Club’s junior programme with Phil Head and his team. It was a once in a life

time moment for kids to meet a five-time World Champion and gain some experience, except for Liam, one of our youngsters at 5, who just wanted a photo of him, his teddy and Emma Pike, sorry Sarah.

We then hosted an Exhibition Match between Hong Kong girls under 19’s no.1 and no.2 players Lee Ka Yi and Ho Tzu Lok (Tomato). It was a great game to watch and even though they play each other on a regular basis they were both trying their best showing amazing skill and speed. Lee Ka Yi took the match in the end but a great effort and exhibition by both players and excellent for our juniors to be able to watch such a match.

The main event of the trip was approaching with the Exhibition

Sarah Fitz-Gerald visits the Club

SQUASH


Match between Sarah Fitz-Gerald and Carmen Lee (HKFC number 1 women’s player and top 10 in HK). Sarah thought she might need a bit of a warm up after being on court for 3 hours with over 60 kids so decided to warm up with our one and only Steve Glover. Being Movember, Steve was looking extremely handsome with his “manicured mo” on show and Steve being Steve he was happy to help warm up a good looking lady. Steve was pushed to his limits on court and then nearly pushed Sarah over, but it wasn’t meant to be with Sarah winning the match.

Sarah was still a bit cold and needed more of a warm up and went on court with our own junior champion Isabella Bersani. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Isabella move or play so well in my life, it must have been the pressure of playing such a champion. Isabella tried every move in the book but with nothing working against Sarah’s shots and speed and unfortunately losing the match.

Carmen Lee was now up and ready for the challenge to take on Sarah and all her experience. It was a match to remember. It was a great match with both players being pushed to their limits, and I know Sarah was pushed to her limits because the next day she couldn’t walk up the stairs without most of her body hurting, well done Carmen!!

Sarah won the match but she said in her speech at the end we all better watch out for Carmen as she is one that will be climbing the world rankings soon.

Thank you again to all our sponsors and for everyone’s support attending the coaching clinics and exhibition matches it was great to see such a good crowd and hopefully Sarah will come back again soon.

Emma Pike, Ladies Squash Captain

26 Feb 2012

Update from Men’s Captain

As we pass the halfway stage of the season and into 2012 with strings frayed and backs aching, it is time to push through the holiday hangover to bring in the silverware.

At last count, 6 of the HKFC Village Holdings Men’s Teams were leading their divisions (Div 3, Div 8, Div 13, Div 16, M1 and M3) and 16 of our 20 squads are placed within the top-4 qualifying positions for the play-offs.

Most of the leagues are very close so there is plenty to play for.

With home matches happening nightly from Monday to Friday every week, supporters are always welcome to come down and cheer the teams on. The match schedule is on the notice board at the HKFC Squash Centre and you can get an update of teams, results, rankings and league positions at www.hksquash.org.hk.

Malcolm Kerr

SQUASH

Junior Squash Handicap Tournament in December

This year we had a record number of 51 juniors enter in 3 grades.

For some of our younger juniors in Grade 3 (5 to 8 year olds), it was their first ever squash tournament, so well done to all of you who had the courage to enter.

Grade 2 (8 to 12 year olds) boasted 10 players of similar standard and the competition for both the main and plate event was very competitive.

Grade 1 (12 to 16 year olds) saw a capacity 32 draw with some outstanding squash all the way through to the finals.

Congratulations to all the players who took part and to all the winners!

HKFC Squash Handicap Tournament 2011 Results.

Grade 3Winner. James MCPherson

Runner Up. Ethan Woo

Plate winner. Charlie Pike

Plate runner up. Jack Harvey

Grade 2Winner. Zach Ho

Runner up. Jaden Li Head

Plate winner. Jeremy Au Yeung

Plate runner up. Jessica Newton

Grade 1Winner. Neil Sadarangani

Runner up. Oliver Engelhart

Plate winner. Lockie Fitzgerald

Plate runner up. Natalie Lam

Junior of the Month: Oliver Engelhart

28 Feb 2012

HOCKEY

Hockey News

Dear Players,

Having postponed their December date due to the floods, our friends at the Bangkok Sports Club are now running their excellent hockey

tournament on 28th and 29th April 2012. Please note that the Saturday (28th April) and following Tuesday (1st May) are public holidays in Hong Kong so I am expecting that the already excellent count, of both men and women from the December event, may actually increase for this rescheduled tournament.

Touring is one of the core elements that count towards your commitment to the Section, alongside running a team, committee attendance, umpiring, Mini and Youth Hockey support, as well as of course keeping your training and match attendance to at least 75%. So if you have not toured yet, then maybe this is the one to volunteer for; the details are on the website and it is going to be fantastic!

We are fast approaching Easter, which means one crucial item for your calendars, the HK Hockey 6s tournament. You will have seen emails about it and there is plenty of information on the website. If you are around over Easter please volunteer now to help that weekend. You will be duly rewarded for your support by being watered, fed and entertained on the event’s account. That should be a big enough incentive! For those that haven’t been to the 6’s before, it’s an excellent festival of 6s hockey! With the entire Club’s

facilities at our disposal, of which there is no comparison for hockey festivals in Asia or globally, it is always a fantastically well-organised weekend, which you do not want to miss out on. Contact details are on the website.

We will soon announce the date for the End of 50th Season Ball. It is likely to be mid-May, which is slightly earlier than normal because as it currently stands the HKHA appears to be running a much more timely fixture list this season! Please keep an eye on the website and on your emails for the announcement. In keeping with our anniversary we will be holding the event in the Club’s Ballroom (aka Restaurant), which will be decorated beyond all recognition and in keeping with this important milestone. I look forward to seeing all teams represented at this event so please make every effort to chivvy along your teammates.

At our Christmas Party, apart from a superb evening of dressing up attire and revelry, where we yet again proved just how good we are at it, we also raised just over $7,000 for the Section’s charity, Crossroads. This is on average 60 dollars per attendee, so to all those that attended thank you so much for your effort here. For those that didn’t attend (approximately 150+ did not), please make a special effort to be at our End of Season Ball. There will be a few other initiatives over the rest of the season to continue raising funds for our Section charity; you can read more about both Crossroads and our initiatives on our website.

Bully on…Chairman Charlie.

Ladies Captain’s Report

Hello everyone and a Happy New Year to all! Welcome to the Year of the Dragon!

For those of you who attended the Club’s New Year’s Eve Ball, I hope you all had a great night - I certainly did. However, my dreams of a post new years detox were well and truly

dashed with the arrival of my 30th birthday. You know what they say: 30 is the new 20… Right?

Anyway, what a great first half of the season we all had, and I know 2012 is going to be even better! A quick recap for you all:

Premier division: The A’s are still sitting at the top of the table having scored 50 goals in the first half of the season - pretty impressive! The B’s, also in the premier division, are currently in 6th, but are hanging in there and looking forward to racking up several early victories.

1st division: The D’s are in second and the C’s have climbed back up to fourth. This is shaping up to be a great Club rivalry in the second half of the season.

2nd division: The E’s are sitting solid in fifth, having lost a number of players to injury. Hopefully their new additions can help get their winning streak back on track.

Chairman’s Report

Charlie Poulton, Hockey Section Chairman

Joanna Fargus, Ladies’ Captain


HOCKEY

3rd division: The F’s are top of the table, without suffering a single defeat this season. Keep it up Foxes!

4th division: The G’s are in third position, only a few points behind first and with everything to play for in the coming months.

I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate our National players. Before we all headed our separate ways for the Christmas holidays, a number of our club players were selected to represent Hong Kong in the 1st Invitational

Tournament – big congratulations to Lara McKee, Sam Hill, Netty Jenkins, Babs Mountain, Nic Sawyer, Eli Vos and Claire Archer.

Anyway, I hope you are all over your post holiday depression and back into the swing of things. I’m looking forward to continuing our great season and seeing everyone on the top of their league tables!

Cheers, Jo

Inviting teams from Japan, Korea, Shenzhen and Chinese Taipei to our shores, the Hong Kong national side (aptly named the

Chopsticks), were raring to fight for the top spot in the first International Invitational Tournament held on home soil. The HKFC representation in this year’s National side was considerable with seven of our ladies being called up for National representation, Sam Hill, Babs Mountain, Lara McKee, Nicola Sawyer, Netty Jenkins, Eli Vos (who made the senior squad whilst still qualifying for the U18 team) and Claire Archer.

Against the odds the HK National side swooped to a fantastic 1-0 victory over Shenzhen in their first match of the tournament, which meant they started their Japanese match up with confidence and in high spirits. Cruising to a 5-1

victory over Japan and with a fantastic display from our Club stars, scoring all bar one of the goals, the sideline man of the match was unanimous with Netty Jenkins sneaking the honors.

A victory against their next opposition, the well renowned Chinese Taipei side, would have ensured automatic qualification into the final, so nerves were kicking in. After an impressive display of hockey and a well-fought game, with Hong Kong controlling the majority of the play, the team had to settle for a 2-2 draw. Not what they were hoping for but it still meant the final was on the cards, that was if they could wangle at least a draw against the top seeds, Korea!

An extremely close game, a nail biter right to the end, with Hong Kong holding the mighty Koreans to a 2-2 draw to take them into the final on Sunday 11th December.

Here they would face the same well-drilled and, most notably, semi-professional team they had played the day before (the Koreans)!

It was a clash of the titans for the final show down, with undoubtedly the two best teams battling for the gold. A great performance with the HK National side fighting to the end but the Koreans came back hard and secured the gold with a 2-0 victory. A highly successful tournament and one we all hope will become an annual event. Huge congratulations to our HKFC players who did us proud throughout the tournament. Special mentions must go to Netty Jenkins for receiving the HK Attacker of the tournament whilst Claire Archer took home the HK Defender of the tournament.

Chopsticks Eat Up the Competition

30 Feb 2012

Lawn Bowls News

In the tradition of the Lawn Bowls Section, many of the Section’s bowlers took to the Indoor Green for the annual Boxing Day social.

The bowlers drew cards to place themselves either in the Blue or Red team. They then played two games and the points from each rink were added up to see who the eventual winners were.

Uncannily (as it seems to be happening very often these days) it ended in a draw.

Tea was provided by the Section for those bowlers who were still not too full with Turkey and Christmas pudding, and fun was had by all.

Many thanks to Rita and Bernard for organizing the event.

Now that the kids have grown up and left home, Ida and I decided it was time to do something

different over the festive period. The opportunity presented itself when an invitation was received by the HKFC to send two teams (mixed rinks) to play in the Zhong Gang Hua Sui Cup being held in Guangdong over the Christmas period. Five couples put their names forward for consideration, from which the two teams were formed. Johnny Tsang, Harold Low, Rita Tsui, Walter Kwok and Shirley Ma became the ‘A’ Team and Philip and Wanis Sze with Nick and Ida Grimshaw formed the ‘B’ Team. Laura ( Johnny’s better half) provided much needed encouragement and support for both teams. Twenty teams participated in all, one team

The Zhong Gang Hua Sui Cup, Guangdong

from Macau, six from Guangdong province and the remainder from various clubs in Hong Kong. The majority of teams were billeted in the Hotel Landmark Canton which proved to be very comfortable and ideally situated for restaurants and

proximity to Xuexin Park which was the venue for the competition.

Whilst spectators shivered in the stands players on the green basked in glorious sunshine. As the games progressed temperatures rose in parallel with the competitive nature

Boxing Day Social Game

LAWN BOWLS


of the tournament. Top coats, fleeces and jumpers were removed item by item, only to be reversed as evening approached. Christmas Eve was occupied with sectional play. Four groups, A - D, with five teams in each group played against each other. The knockout phase of the competition took place on Christmas Day. The top two teams in each group progressed into the Cup competition whilst the remaining twelve teams played in the Plate. Our ‘A’ Team played in group A and were pitted against tough opposition which included KCC with the likes of Danny Ho and Jimmy Chui in their line-up. It pleases me to report that the ‘A’ Team duly beat KCC but unfortunately their results overall meant that they were relegated to play in the Plate and with luck totally against them they lost their first game in the knockout stage of the competition. The ‘B’ Team fared better by winning their group thus being eligible to play in the Cup. The team were on fire at this stage and STSA, our first opponents in the knockout stage, were confidently dealt with as too were USRC in the semi-finals. Unfortunately in the final we came up against a very strong Chung San and Hong Kong Team who were clearly the better side on the day and quickly brought us down to earth with a bump. Reality can be painful at times.

To finish with I would like to paraphrase Churchill: “ I have never accepted what many people have kindly said, namely that I played well throughout the competition. It was Wanis, Philip and yes even Ida that were there for me and had the lion heart. I had the luck to be called upon to give the roar”. Something, I’ve been told, I do rather well.

Special thanks to Johnny for all his hard work and effort and thereby making the occasion so much more enjoyable for all of us.

Nick Grimshaw

LAWN BOWLS

Meet the Captains

Bernard Young Men’s Team Captain

Number of years playing bowls: played bowls for 10 years

Number of years bowling for the Club: played bowls for HKFC for 6 years

Bowling Career highlight: Winners of National Men’s 2-4-2 in 2011

Daisy McNie Ladies Captain

Number of years playing bowls: My husband John started playing lawn bowls in 1965. I was never interested in it until 2005 when Irene Chan persuaded me to start bowling.

My technique was taught by Irene Chan and T.Y. Tse and my first set of bowls was given to me by Irene. These were size 4 medium GreenMaster which I still use occasionally. John taught me how to call shots. We have a game of 2x4x2 every Wednesday morning and over the years this never stops unless one or two of us are out of town.

In year 2006 as a reserve player, I had few games in the league as I was busy finishing my diploma in Chinese Medicine with The University of Hong Kong. My first regular selection was in the Triples League in 2007 and our team were the Champions of the group. This is the first time I received a winning trophy.

I was the Captain of the ‘C’ team in 2008 and since then I have played for the ‘B’ team. At the moment I have another set of bowls which are Drakes Pride Professional 3 heavy with my own logo of a daisy flower. I like using these when playing on grass.

Denis Hamelin A Team Captain

Number of years playing bowls: 5 years.

Number of years playing for the Club : 5 years

Type of wood you use: Classic II and Vector

Bowling career highlight:

HKFC Men’s 2011 Premier League Team-B member who earnt promotion to Division 1.

32 Feb 2012

LAWN BOWLS

HKFC Men’s 2010 Premier League Team-C member who earnt promotion to Division 2.

HKLBA Men’s Premier League 2010: finished in 1st place in Division-3 Players Table’s Standing.

HKFC Men’s Premier League 2010 Club’s Player Table Standing: finished tied in 1st place

HKFC Men’s Pair 2010 Champion with Y.S. Leung.

A few words about your team:

Whatever the position or role you play in the A Team family of bowlers, no individual is considered more important than anyone else. Each teammate respects and believes in being supportive of each other’s best level of ability. Team harmony is one of the most satisfying experiences for a bowler or captain.

The base of our undefeated success thus far this Mixed Four season has been the work ethic and enthusiasm of the players.

My sincere thanks to my co-captains; Dorothy Yu and Leo Yau and teammates for the friendly atmosphere in working as a cohesive unit. It has been simply a true pleasure.

Wong Chi To B Team Captain

Number of years playing bowls: 12 years


Type of wood you use: Classic II and Vector


Joined HKFC in 2005, playing for B team in Division 2 and Promoted to Division 1, in the same year.

Represented HKFC when they became Champion of National Fours in 2007, Represented HK Electric who won the Champion of Inter-Hong Competition for three consecutive years (2009, 2010 and 2011)


B- team is made up of experienced players who have fulfilled their commitment to the Club. Most of the players participate in the roll up every Thursday night and play in the league game on Saturday. We are playing in the 2nd division which is proving to be a very competitive league with most teams of a similar standard. We are enjoying playing the games and hope to win more games in the remaining fixtures.

Terri Tsang C Team Captain

Number of years playing bowls: started from taking a Section training course in 2005

Number of years playing for the Club: 6 years

Type of wood you use: VS and Tiger II


After taking the training course organized by the Section in 2005/2006, I joined the ladies E team in 2006, and the team won Division 5 in 2007. I was the Captain of the ladies C team in 2010/2011 playing in Division 2 of both the Premier and Triples leagues.


The C Team is made up of players from the very experienced to rookies with less than a year’s experience. Despite the differences, all the players support each other, play in harmony and enjoy all the games, win or lose. Happy 2012!

Cyril Leung D Team Captain

Number of years playing bowls - over 20 years

Number of years playing for the Club - 15 years

Type of wood you use - Tiger II

Bowling career highlight - Started bowling at KBGC and have represented HKFC since 1997. A regular league bowler for over 20 years. Commonly appears as an official in organizing tournaments/events. Was the only umpire from the Asian region in World Bowls 2008

A few words about your team - D Team players are very experienced and committed. All are eager to play in league matches and enjoy bowls through competitions. Every week, I encounter problems in how to give everyone a game when preparing the line-up.

James Cheuk E Team Captain

Years playing bowls: almost 12 years

Years playing for the Club: 7 years

Bowls used: Started with Taylor Ace on grass, later changed to Drakes Pride on carpet.

About the game of lawn bowling: When I first learned this game, I was told it is a gentleman’s game, a good social game and a game with manners and etiquette. I have stuck to these principles in all my years of bowling. It is sad to see that sometimes certain players do not observe these as they seem


too desperate to WIN even at the expense of friendship and politeness. In view of this, after becoming a coach I never forget to teach beginners the bowls etiquette. I have a strong feeling that the HKLBA should include this matter in the beginner’s courses that they run. Meanwhile, I am pleased to say that all our Club’s beginners are very polite and well informed.

Some memorable moments of playing for the Club: I was captain of the D Team (Div.3) for a few years. The team started with barely enough players and the sole aim was to stay in the division. It was a time when the Section was using “the law of the jungle” for selection and very often, we were short of bowlers and had to enlist help from lower divisions. Nevertheless, we played well and managed to keep in mid position. As everybody bowled heartily and enjoyed the game, our team was known to be the HAPPY team. In one particular year, we even came second in the first half of the season. I would attribute this ‘happiness’ to team spirit which is something intangible but important enough to boost morale and results. At that time, all teammates had great rapport with each other and enjoyed every game. It seems to me that managing a team that has ‘team spirit’ and up keeping it, is the most important task for a team captain.

A few words about the present team: This year, being HKLBA’s 50th anniversary, it is a novel idea to run the Mixed 4’s League. It is also the first time for me to be the captain with both men and ladies in the team. Fortunately, our teammates are all good and experienced bowlers. I do not need to do much except to enjoy every game I play. We are doing all right so far (won 3 and lost 1) and hope to carry on with our point-getting mission for the rest of the season.

Wong Chi Kin F Team Captain

Number of years playing bowls: 7 years.


Type of wood you use: Henselite Classic II


I joined HKFC in 2004 as a Corporate member. Shortly after, I attended the Lawn Bowls Section’s Beginners’ Class and started the bowling journey. In 2009, I converted to a Sports Preferred Member. During these years, I mainly played in the E-team.

I was recruited as the Captain for the E team in the 2010 Triples League and continued as Captain in last year’s Premier League where we gained promotion from the 6th to the 5th division.


The team consists of both seasoned players as well as less experienced ones. The challenge is to strike a good balance between nurturing the green players and yet achieving victory. Here I would like to take the time to thank all our seasoned players who have been taking positive ownership and accommodating and patiently guiding the ‘younger’ ones. We look forward to further excelling in the coming games.

Raymond Au G Team Captain, Captain of Mixed Fours League 2011

Number of years playing bowls: Since my childhood

Number of years playing for the Club: Since my childhood

Type of wood you use: Thomas Taylor Spectrum Size 4 Heavy

Bowling career highlight: HKLBA Summer League 1999 Division 3 Runner-up; HKLBA National Championship 2000 National Triples Champion; HKLBA Summer League 2000 Division 2 Runner-up; IRC Invitational Lawn Bowls Triples Tournament 2000 Runner-up; Aitkenhead Shield Bronze Medal 2000 and 2001; Aitkenhead Shield Silver Medal 2002; HKLBA Premier League 2002 Division 1 Runner-up; HKLBA Premier League 2005 Division 2 Champion; HKLBA Triples League 2005 Division 2 Champion

A few words about your team: A miracle team of the band of 16 brothers and sisters.

It is great to see our bowlers get together to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of HKLBA. I am looking forward to celebrating the HKLBA Centenary in 2061!

LAWN BOWLS

34 Feb 2012

Kung Hei Fat Choy !

Hard to believe that we are into another year and that it was a colder start to the year here in Hong Kong than England and the USA! The year of the Dragon is going to bring us many new editions off court (very lucky) and on court, all teams are performing well. Division one has just kicked off after a much needed two-month break to rest sprains and strains.

Mid January saw the HKNA host the Tri-Nations, involving Hong Kong (currently unranked in the world), Malaysia (ranked 22nd) and Chinese Taipei (currently unranked). Several of our HKFC players represented Hong Kong in the national squad and were

lucky enough to experience playing against these strong neighbouring countries. Congratulations to Lydia Wratten (HKFC Typhoons), Nadia Cuvelier (HKFC Typhoons) and Natacha Cuvelier (HKFC Club) who represented Hong Kong. Also during this time, we had coaching and umpiring courses run by visiting experts Carol Byers and Stacey Campton, both from Australia.

Look out for recently amended rules to the International Rule book. These changes will be notified by HKNA, however it is up to each umpire to educate themselves on the changes. The changes are in relation to: Rule 3.4.2 and Rule 7 of the Rules of Netball. To read the official changes listed go to: IFNA website for more information.

Wednesday 22nd February will be the ‘Night at the Races’. There will be no training. Look out for details on this event.

Karin Looram, Netball DSA Chairperson

Netball NewsMessage from the Chairman

NETBALL

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Match Reports

Hurricanes (23) vs Fielders (11)After a rather uneventful 2011 Hurricanes hit back in our first match of 2012 with what can only be described as ‘the greatest match we have ever played.’ After the moans and groans of excess indulgence over the Christmas period, we sucked our bellies in and fought hard against a very decent Cricket Club side, who had previously beaten us in the first half of the season. We also welcomed our newest player Jen to the team. She gave a magnificent performance at Centre, showing unstoppable pace and agility and general youthfulness! We put up a very strong defence with Cheryl and Lucy both playing half a game in GD and Yvonne in GK, we managed to deny them even a single goal in the third quarter. Finally, major credit goes to Liz in GS, for her stellar performance, she conquered the nerves, got stuck in and scored goal after goal in the second half. The final score

was 23-11, a clear indicator of how much we have improved. Superb result Ladies! Really proud of the progress we have made together as a team. How good does winning feel? Let’s keep it up! Here’s to a successful 2012! Go Hurricanes!

Tornadoes (16) vs Aussie Kangaroos (31)The first game for 2012 started strong for Tornadoes. All fears of too much “festive fun” and not enough fitness, quickly disappeared as the team began to gel. Some solid play from defence, with great tips and grabs by Angela Webb in GD, followed by some nice transition down the court, kept the scoring low. We entered the 2 quarter down by only one goal.

The second quarter was consistent with good back-up on the centre pass from defence players Marie Farry in WD and Angela Webb in GD. Our attackers worked hard using their triangle feeds

around the circle. Some nice goals by Cheryl White in GS, with great team play and support from Hayleigh Davies in GA. We finished the quarter still one down with Aussie Kangaroos on 8 and Tornadoes on 7.

The third quarter, the Aussie Kangaroos aced some perfect goals to push ahead. Tornadoes defence worked over-time to grab some re-bounds, with attack trying their best to convert. Dawn Cheng stepped into WD, feeding the ball from re-bounds down center court.

Going into the fourth quarter, the Kangaroos had widened the gap, continuing to convert. Tornadoes did not give up without a fight, pushing into the circle to add a couple of goals to the scoreboard.

Our first game in 5 weeks, Tornadoes worked hard, together as a team. All in all, a really solid effort.

Go Tornadoes!

NETBALL

36 Feb 2012

What’s the Rule?

Badminton NewsBADMINTON

Hard as it may be to believe, even players who have been playing badminton for years (come to think of it, probably especially players who have been playing the game

for years!), still come across situations in the game where they don’t know the rules. So here are a couple of fairly common situations where perhaps we can clear up some lingering doubts:

Q. What happens when the shuttle goes over the net, but gets stuck in the net on the other side?

A. The laws on this situation are quite clear. If this happens during the course of the service, it is a fault. The service and the point are lost. Law 13, ‘Faults’, says:

“It shall be a ‘fault’:

13.1 if a service is not correct (Law 9.1) [BL: this was discussed in the November edition of the magazine];

13.2 if, in service, the shuttle:

13.2.1 is caught on the net and remains suspended on its top; or

13.2.2 after passing over the net, is caught in the net”.

However, if this happens during the course of play, it is a let and the point is replayed. Here Law 14, ‘Lets’, states:

“14.2 It shall be a ‘let’, if: ...

14.2.3 after the service is returned, the shuttle is:

14.2.3.1 caught on the net and remains suspended on its top, or

14.2.3.2 after passing over the net is caught in the net”.

Note that the above also specifically applies to the situation where the shuttle rests on top of the net (though I have yet to see this happen in over 40 years of playing the game).

Q. What’s the rule regarding ‘grunting’? (I don’t know about you, but watching professional ladies’ tennis drives me to distraction!)

A. Badminton appears to have taken something of a stand where this is concerned. The law on ‘Faults’, Law 13, states:

“It shall be a ‘fault’: ...

13.4 if, in play, a player: ...

13.4.5 deliberately distracts an opponent by any action such as shouting or making gestures”.

I hope this helps. Happy New Year to you all and enjoy your badminton in 2012.

High profile visitorsAs you are probably aware, the world’s badminton elite descended on the SAR in November to play in the Hong Kong Open. Although there were a few surprise results on the way, the finals ended up being contested by players from just 3 countries – China, Korea and Denmark.

Chinese players won gold in all five events: Men’s Singles, Ladies’ Singles, Men’s Doubles, Ladies’ Doubles and Mixed Doubles. Chinese players were also runners-up in the Men’s Singles and the Ladies’ Doubles. Danish players finished as runners-up in the Ladies’ Singles and Mixed Doubles, while Korean players lost in the Men’s Doubles final.

HKFC played host to two of the Canadian visitors, Toby Ng and Alex Bruce (pictured above) who are both Pan-American Champions, Toby in Mixed Doubles and Alex in Ladies Doubles Toby and his partner Grace Lao are world-ranked 27, while Alex and her partner Michelle Li are also world-ranked 27. They both came to spend some time at the Club and to prepare for the tournament.

High profile changesFollowing his election to the HKFC General Committee, Philip Woolf stepped down in December as Chairman of the HKFC Badminton Society. He has been succeeded in this illustrious position by Ryan Wong. We wish both Philip and Ryan all the very best in their new roles.


Golf News

GOLF

One of the more fun events of our calendar is the Christmas outing to Deepwater Bay where the golf tends to take a back seat to the Christmas spirit.

Apart from the more relaxed golf, the easy access to the course and shortness of the course makes it a pleasant change from more serious challenges at say Kau Sai Chau North.

This year it was decided to make it a three club (plus putter) challenge so the previous week was taken up considering optimal club strategies. Deepwater Bay is basically 9 holes which you play twice with the longest being a 340 yard par 4 and the rest being par threes of up to 200 yards but some as short as 89 yards. The greens are tiny, and shaped like small upturned tea saucers so chipping is always a challenge, and more so with a limited selection of clubs.

Ian Petersen proved this in spades by spending most of the morning hitting a pitching wedge across the greens from bunker to bunker whilst muttering some very un-Christmas-like comments about the course. Decency prevents me from mentioning his score but he not only tore up his card on the 18th, but also carefully blacked out his scores on the card he was marking!

Chris Meecham came to grief on the par 4, blasting his approach deep into the OB area. While David Connolly kindly went into the bushes to try to find the ball, Chris reloaded, and rather uncharitably fired another one straight at David’s head still deep in the OB. Fortunately the “double par” limit put an end to his misery on that hole so at least he could record a seasonal “Snowman” on his card.

However the Dick of the Day award, along with the Einstein Prize for mathematical genius, was won hands down by our very own Chairman Andy Ho. Having spent the past week devising his club strategy, he decided that his THREE clubs would be Rescue Club, 6 iron, 9 iron and sand wedge. When

Christmas Fun at Deep Water Bay

I glanced in his bag on the 15th tee box and remarked “you seem to be a bit overclubbed Andy” he peered after his tee shot and said “Oh, did I hit that over the green then?”. Not so much a Ho, Ho, Ho, as a Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho – Oh No!

Low Gross was Jonathan Li with a net 57 followed by Chris Meecham (despite his travails) on 17 with a 59. Low gross was myself on 67. However as our very own Mrs Santa (Candi) had produced festive gifts for all, everyone went home a winner.

Dallas Reid

38 Feb 2012

Tennis NewsTENNIS

The Winter Mixed League has just started and we’re looking forward to another successful season under the inspired leadership of Job Tang. We won the mixed league two years in

a row and came to a close second last season. Our Ladies Premier/Division 3 team in the Hong Kong Ladies League has also started their winter campaign with plenty of confidence and enthusiasm.

The Junior B and C teams are fired up and rearing to get started. Thanks to the support of the ATA team, we now have two very solid squads that have grown steadily over the past couple of years with some very talented juniors.

Best of luck everyone!

New Winter Leagues Get Under Way

HKFC (6) vs American Club (3)The mixed league team made a successful start to their season when they defeated American Club 6-3 at home. The team were led by Agnes Baleyte and Duncan Spooner, who won all three of their sets. Jenny Chapman and Kevin McNamara won two sets (coming back from 0-5 down to win 7-6 in one of their sets) while Yoke Ming Ong and Rabo Leung won their final set. Both teams then made their way to the Coffee Shop for a delicious meal.

HKFC (16) vs Singapore (8)

On a balmy Saturday afternoon in December, a strong Club team hosted a visiting team from Singapore – the third overseas team to grace our courts in the last two months. All matches were men’s and ladies doubles played over a 30 minute period. In the final wrap up, the Club came out on top, winning 16-8. Afterwards, the visitors were treated to a hot pot buffet at the Coffee Shop. Thanks to all Club players who represented the team in this match.


Upcoming Events

“Coach and Social” Friday 3rd February Friday 9th March Friday 27th April from 7.00-9.00pmThis year we will be holding three ‘Coach and Social’ events – open to all Club Members free of charge! This is an excellent opportunity to meet the ATA coaching team for some fun drills and exercises, as well as a chance to socialise with the wider tennis community at the Club. Mark the dates in your diary:

Anyone interested please RSVP Colin Butterfield so we know how many people to expect at [email protected]

Free for all!

Club Championships - March 2012Time to get in training for the annual Club Championships, which get underway in March. Once again, the competition is open to all Club Members and there are several categories for all ages and abilities.

Sunday Social TennisA 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 LaddersIf 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!!

Be sure to check out the Tennis Society website which is updated regularly with lots more photos from all of the recent events. www.hkfctennis.com

If you have any questions, comments or suggestions for the Tennis Society, please email the following address: [email protected]

ATA introduces

Shane Fox HKFC Tennis Manager

TCA Level 2, ATPCA Level 2, Qualified TCA Examiner

Shane has over 23 years experience tennis coaching at all levels. For the past 5 years Shane has been the Director of Tennis at the Hong Kong Jockey Club. He has also been Head Tennis Professional in clubs in Austria, New York and Philadelphia as well as Newcastle, Australia which is his home town. Shane has coached in Australia at the State and National levels as a talent ID scout and also worked with ITF ranked junior and seniors as well as personally coaching two players on the professional tour. Before discovering his passion for coaching, Shane competed in Australian junior circuits then professional Satellite tournaments, as well as playing Satellite tournaments in Europe and USA.

To arrange a lesson with Shane please contact: Shane (m) 62051430 or [email protected]

HKFC Family TENNIS DayParent & Child Challenge

Come join the Fun“ALL Welcome”Saturday 11th February

Type to enter text

*BEGINNER 12noon -1.15pm

*INTERMEDIATE 1.15 - 3pm

*ADVANCED -ELITE

3 -7pm

!

Tennis with your Tennis

Star*Games / Prizes,

Certificates

*All abilities accepted

*Refreshments

*Price per 2 person family*$260

To Enter Please E-mail:[email protected]

!

TENNIS

40 Feb 2012

TENNIS


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ADVERTISMENTS

42 Feb 2012

ADVERTISMENTS

ADVERTISEMENTS

Please visit our website to see our advertising rates:

www.hkfc.com.hk /club-news/monthly-club-magazine3 months receive 10% discount

6 months receive 15% discount

11 months receive 20% discount

Members receive an additional 15% discount.

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From Terrence Malick, the acclaimed director of such classic films as Badlands, Days of Heaven and The Thin Red Line, The Tree of Life is the impressionistic story of a Midwestern family in the 1950’s. The film follows the life journey of the eldest son, Jack, through the innocence of childhood to his disillusioned adult years as he tries to reconcile a complicated relationship with his father (Brad Pitt). Jack (played as an adult by Sean Penn) finds himself a lost soul in the modern world, seeking answers to the origins and meaning of life while questioning the existence of faith. Through Malick’s signature imagery, we see how both brute nature and spiritual grace shape not only our lives as individuals and families, but all life.

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ONE SUMMER BY DAVID BALDACCI

ONLY TIME WILL TELL BY JEFFREY ARCHER

AND MORE...!

44 Feb 2012

Valentine's Day - Hong Kong Football Club

Documents

Transcript of Valentine's Day - Hong Kong Football Club