The diminutive figure and quiet manner exhibit a misleading exterior when you first encounter Tradition Valley’s young hooker Ivan Chan. The young Hong Kong under-20 International doesn’t betray any self-satisfaction as we talk about his latest in a growing list of achievements. On February 21st Ivan became the first player from the ‘Breakthrough Rugby’ scheme to play in the region’s top rugby division and hopes that others can follow in his path.

Breakthrough began in Tuen Mun in 1996 to combat growing juvenile delinquency and an increasing divide between young Hong Kongers and local police forces. It aims to develop Hong Kong’s youth through sporting activities and interaction with off-duty Hong Kong policeman. Officers attempted to instil confidence, self-esteem and team work into the troubled youths through the medium of sport. Initially adventure training, abseiling, hill-walks and boxing were the scheme’s main focus but after sustained success other sports were incorporated and in 2003 the Hong Kong Rugby Football Union (HKRFU) got involved and began pooling players from Wong Tai Sin and Tin Shui Wai.

Two years ago Ivan picked up a ball, and head Breakthrough and Valley coach Brian Higgins, also a policeman, has been impressed by his development, “For a guy who’s been playing rugby for a couple of years to play in division 1 is massive. He’s fast around the pitch, a good thrower, keen and enthusiastic and I don’t want to change that.”
That is ample compliment for a player who’s first taste of rugby came watching the Hong Kong sevens tournament in China where he lived. The fast pace and exciting games appealed to Ivan, but even when he moved to the territory from China at 10 years old he had no intention of playing rugby. “I never thought I’d be good at rugby...[but]after two years I realised I could play.”

Head of Rugby at HKRFU Robbie McRobbie, involved with the addition of rugby to the Breakthrough scheme in 2003 said, “Ivan has surpassed all expectations with his commitment and passion.” And Ivan isn’t alone, with the number of youngsters playing rugby through Breakthrough up to over 100, with teams participating in the local Under 14, Under 16 and Under 19 leagues.
Ivan wants to continue leading the way, setting his sights on the National team and becoming a regular in the Valley 1st XV. “I play under-20’s for Hong Kong and want to be a professional.” He also thanked coach Higgins, “Brian gave me many opportunities and I thank him alot.”

It seems that the future’s bright for Ivan Chan and maybe he can record another breakthrough at So Kon Po on Saturday when Valley play Synovate HKCC in the G4S Grand Championship semi-final.

Ace Reporter Owen Neilson.