The Hong Kong Corporate Sevens is one of the most exciting annual rugby events in the city, bringing together corporate teams from leading companies such as HSBC, Swire, Savills, JLL, and Colliers. This year’s tournament, held on Sunday, 4 December 2016, saw a major shift in format, introducing Tag Rugby alongside the traditional men’s contact rugby games.
Simon Reid-Kay & Associates and co-sponsor Richards Basmajian were proud to support the Tin Shui Wai Pandas (TSWRFC) as they took part in the competition. The Pandas entered both a men’s team and a mixed team, the latter requiring a minimum of three women on the field at all times. In an outstanding performance, the Pandas’ mixed team won the Plate, proving their strength and versatility in this new format.
TSW Pandas: A Story of Growth and Success
Founded in 2011, the Tin Shui Wai Pandas Rugby Football Club (TSWRFC) has its roots in Operation Breakthrough, an initiative that uses sports to help at-risk youth develop teamwork, discipline, and leadership skills. Many of the club’s players have gone on to represent Hong Kong U20s, the Hong Kong Development Level, and the Hong Kong A squad.
The Pandas made an immediate impact in their inaugural season, with their first team going undefeated and winning the Championship Division. Their second team also claimed silverware at the National League level, with both teams earning promotion.
By the 2013/14 season, the Pandas expanded from two teams to four, including a men’s and women’s development team. The women’s team immediately made history by winning the 10’s B League Championship in their first season.
TSWRFC’s Competitive Success
The Pandas’ first two teams currently compete in Premiership A and Community League 3. The club has also invested in youth development, launching a Colts section in 2015 with U19, U16, and U14 boys and girls teams. Impressively, these young squads won silverware in their first season.
The 2015 season was a milestone year for the Pandas, with wins in:
- Women’s Xs Development League
- Men’s NL 5 Division
- Men’s Third XV Grand Championship Final (undefeated season)
Beyond their success on the field, the Pandas also earned recognition for their sportsmanship, winning the RFU ‘Trophy 21’ in 2015/16—awarded to the fairest and cleanest team in Hong Kong.
A Bright Future Ahead
With continued support from Simon Reid-Kay & Associates and Richards Basmajian, the Tin Shui Wai Pandas are set to grow even further, competing at higher levels while continuing to make a positive impact in their community. Whether through corporate competitions like the Hong Kong Corporate Sevens or grassroots youth programs, TSWRFC remains a shining example of how rugby can inspire, unite, and transform lives.