1st XV
Year of the ‘Loon
As I mentioned in the title of the piece I feel this is a year in which inProjects Kowloon can be seen to be turning a corner within the Hong Kong rugby fraternity. Kowloon was once a dominant force in Hong Kong rugby and from what I know we rested on our laurels. This bred a poor culture at the club and manifested itself in the way we played. This year with our new head coach and the help of some exuberant players we are looking to step out of the old ‘loon and into the new one. This doesn’t mean we will lose any of our club traditions; we shall still wish to be highly involved in local development of talent, encourage all players to play at the highest grade and keep our social tradition. Miss Kowloon will be an event not to miss; we will be seen partying in our new Sponsor bar, Devil’s Advocate, Wan Chai and we shall continue to host the social tournament before the Hong Kong 7s, Kowloon rugbyfest. The difference this year is that Kowloon will be a much more competitive, steely and strong minded team on the field.
Last year was a difficult one, both as a team and personally. We have moved on from last year, this year will already look a much more compact outfit. I much firstly praise Jim Walker who had an arduous task of getting some discipline back in the club. I personally think he did a sterling job, and I look forward to seeing Jim take his place in a backline of our 3rd and 4th this season. Top notch performances could see him move up the ranks-not however if he makes me do another funnel anytime soon.
During the summer I went back home, to Gods own country to have a slight niggle removed from my elbow which had been causing me a lot of pain last year. I’m glad to say things look extremely positive. I look forward to getting back into shape and putting my all in on the pitch this year. I’m looking to play the game I know I can do. The pressure is on me to perform of which I intend to do admirably.
This year inProjects Kowloon have taken a huge step forward. With the help of funding from our sponsors we have managed to secure the services of a proven premiership player, Joe Shaw ex Newcastle Falcons. Joe will have a huge impact on and off the field. Training has already stepped up a notch or two, ask some people they may say more like ten. Joe is to be supported by a team of coaches to ensure all players have the chance to improve and develop. The ultimate goal is to support players at inProjects Kowloon and the Hong Kong national side.
The reiterate the points, this year is the first year of an implemented plan to get a little success, honor and pride into the Kowloon shirt. I hope we do this and you enjoy being a member of the mighty ‘loon, both on and off the field.
As we say at home, ‘in a bit’
Matt Stockdale
Kowloon 1xv Captain
