The Hong Kong 7s roared back into action over the weekend of March 28-30, 2025, and what a spectacle it was! This year’s tournament had an extra layer of excitement as it unfolded in the city’s shiny new stadium that had fans buzzing. With its sleek design and a retractable roof that blessed us with air conditioning when closed, it was a game-changer for comfort. The only hiccup? The food stalls seemed to miss the memo on keeping up with the crowd. Supplies dwindled fast, and the options left something to be desired. Still, a slightly empty stomach was a small price to pay for a weekend this electric.

The festivities kicked off on Friday and Saturday morning with a treat for the next generation of rugby stars. Mini and Youth players from the Pirates, and other Hong Kong clubs took to the pristine pitch for matches that had them grinning ear to ear. For these kids, playing on the same turf as the professionals wasn’t just a game, it was a dream come true and a chance to feel center stage in a stadium built for the big leagues. Parents and coaches lined the stands, cheering as loudly as if it were the finals, and you could see the pride radiating from every tackle and try.

Saturday afternoon brought a uniquely Hong Kong twist to the 7s with a parade of all the local clubs. The Pirates proudly marched out in their black and green, soaking in the applause as they represented our community. It’s moments like these that remind you how deep rugby runs in this city’s veins, a celebration of grassroots grit alongside world-class talent.

Adding a dash of flair to the weekend were the Pirates’ own ball boys and girls, scurrying across the pitch for all three days of the competition. They weren’t just there to fetch balls; they were part of the action, wide-eyed and thrilled to be so close to the pros. It’s safe to say they’ll be recounting those sideline sprints for years to come.

By Sunday, the energy hit fever pitch as the finals took center stage. The stadium was awash with Pirates of all ages, decked out in national team colors.

One highlight that had our crowd buzzing was seeing ex-DB Pirate Florence Symonds tearing it up for Canada in the women’s competition. She and her team clinched third place, a massive achievement and for the younger Pirates in the stands, it was pure inspiration to watch one of their own shine on such a big stage.

The finals themselves delivered nail-biting drama. In the women’s showdown, New Zealand edged out Australia 19-16 in a clash that kept everyone on the edge of their seats. The Black Ferns’ precision and pace were just too much for the Aussies to handle in the dying moments.

On the men’s side, Argentina triumphed over France 12-7, their relentless defense and slick teamwork sealing the deal. Both matches were a fitting cap to a tournament that showcased the best of 7s rugby, fast, fierce, and utterly unpredictable.

For parents, coaches, and players alike, the weekend was nothing short of epic. From the kids’ first tackles on Friday to the trophy lifts on Sunday, the Hong Kong 7s at the new stadium delivered memories to last a lifetime. It was a celebration of community, talent, and the sheer joy of the game. Sure, the food could use a rethink for next year, but with air-conditioned bliss and rugby this good, who’s complaining?

Roll on 2026!

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