French rugby royalty Hong Kong-bound, UBB coach promising HKFC 10s ‘passion and spirit’
UBB coach Laurent Ferrères on lookout for next international stars in Hong Kong, recalls ‘one of biggest experiences of life’ at HK Sevens
Union Bordeaux Bègles will aim to plant a flag in Hong Kong when they travel to the city, armed with a “big bag of passion and spirit”, for the 2025 Tradition HKFC 10s.
Staged over the two days immediately before the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, the 10s is considered an appetiser for the main event.
In the shape of UBB, however, organisers have attracted rugby royalty for next year’s March 26 and 27 tournament. The club’s sevens team will target the French national title in February’s season-ending play-offs, while their 15s side are currently gunning for success on both domestic and European fronts.
UBB sevens head coach Laurent Ferrères came to the HKFC 10s on a fact-finding mission this year.
“The 10s is now more competitive than it is fun,” Ferrères told the Post. “The most important thing is, it’s a high level. We want to show a good image of our rugby and our club. Last year, I could sense a British feeling, we can bring some French culture and our own vibe.
“We play with freedom, movement, passing and pace. When we travel, it is with a big bag of passion and spirit . We are good guys, we are energetic, and we can fight and play. We are coming to try to win.”
