TEAM SALUTE

Players past and present share memories of Hong Kong Stadium

ROB NAYLOR

FORMER HONG KONG CHINA RUGBY SEVENS PLAYER

Running out from the tunnel to warm up in front of the South Stand for the first time is a memory I’ll take to my grave. I remember sitting in the changing room next to [fellow player] Chris Gordon, who said to me, “Junior, the next three days are going to be better than you have ever imagined. Embrace it, as it’s gone in a flash.

SEMIQUAVER IAFETA

RUGBY ASIA CHANNEL HOST, FORMER HONG KONG CHINA RUGBY 15S PLAYER

I’ll miss the hundreds of people behind the scenes who make the Sevens happen but don’t get enough recognition: taxi drivers, food vendors, security guards and cleaners. I’ll also miss the energy of the stadium and the corporate box parties with my friends from Swire and Cathay Pacific.

CHLOE CHAN

HONG KONG CHINA WOMEN’S RUGBY SEVENS PLAYER

My favourite memory was playing against New Zealand. They’re one of the best teams in the world and, even though we lost, I was proud to play for Hong Kong against them. I’ll miss the atmosphere and the South Stand – the dressing up and all that fun.

MAX WOODWARD

HONG KONG CHINA RUGBY SEVENS CAPTAIN During a lull in a game, sometimes the entire stadium just begins chanting, “Hong Kong, Hong Kong”. It’s very special. At the last Sevens, the whole place was pumping. Kids in Hong Kong shirts were lining up to get autographs. I’m sure that energy is going to be replicated in the next stadium.

CADO LEE

HONG KONG CHINA RUGBY SEVENS PLAYER

I grew up watching the Sevens on TV. Our last Sevens game at Hong Kong Stadium is going to be a very special occasion for everyone. No matter what happens next, people will remember how amazing it was to play here.