The 36th edition of the Tradition HKFC 10s kicks off today at the Hong Kong Football Club, with Tradition YCAC defending their title and an expanded women's competition providing added interest.
Featuring 12 men's teams and eight women's sides, the two-day event promises fast-running, hard-hitting rugby action.
"It was great to have that success last year, but this year we're not here to defend the cup, but to win again. That's our mindset to take the pressure off," Tradition YCAC coach Simon Ryan said.
"It's always so difficult to predict what you're up against in the 10s. The teams always surprise you as it's such a mixed bag. So, the one thing we try to do is make it fun for people."
He added: "We've got a very young squad. So, it's great to bring them to Hong Kong and put them in an environment where they can relax and express themselves a bit more."
HKFC Natixis Club, Overseas Old Boys, Taikoo Place Scottish Exiles, China Five Stars, Preseli Baba's, Jiangsu Lions, Pig Athletic Club BaaBaas, Mourant Apache, Shogun Rugby, Papua New Guinea and Ashbury Tropics complete the lineup.
"We've got a great opportunity this week, though it's not going to be easy for us," said former Fijian-Australian international Nemani Nadolo, who is returning to the 10s with the Ashbury Tropics after last participating in 2014.
"That's probably the excitement for us - coming up against these bigger, more established better teams and having a genuine dig."
HKFC Natixis Ice lead the women's field, which also includes China Five Stars, Find Rugby Now, RKS Shogun Rugby, Papua New Guinea, Tokyo Sankyu Phoenix, Shandong Rugby Club and Haywards Tropics.
Former England flanker Heather Fisher, who is here as manager of the Ashbury Tropics, hailed the efforts to grow the women's game in the SAR.
"It's really important to recognize that Hong Kong has been brilliant in terms of giving women a platform and opportunity," she said.
"Women have earned the right to be where we are and we're still fighting to be better over time."
From left: Tradition YCAC coach Simon Ryan, HKFC Natixis Ice's Roshini Turner, Tradition COO APAC Ian Brown, organizer Paul Christopher, Ashbury Tropics manager Heather Fisher and Nemani Nadolo.
