In schools across Hong Kong, something magical is happening on rugby fields. Students who once stayed in their separate social circles are now passing rugby balls, shouting encouragement in multiple languages, and celebrating together as teammates.

Since 2013, Rugby For Good has been using the beloved sport as a bridge between young people of different ethnicities and backgrounds. This year, the charity has been selected by Operation Santa Claus, the annual fundraising campaign established by the South China Morning Post and RTHK in 1988, to receive funding for their inspiring work. The support will help train 500 students aged 12 to 15, continuing a program that already reaches 8,000 primary and secondary students across 120 schools each year.

For sisters Aaminah and Areebah Nosheen Ahmed, born and raised in Hong Kong to Pakistani parents, the program has been life changing. What started as simply playing a game has blossomed into unexpected friendships and cultural exchange. Areebah, now in Form Four, remembers the first time Chinese teammates started using Urdu phrases they'd picked up during games. "We run around with the rugby ball and speak Urdu. After that, the Chinese kids would use the same phrases we use, 'idhar aao' (come here), 'passkar' (pass the ball)," explained Aaminah, a Form Six student.

Executive Director Rocky Chow describes how the magic happens. On rugby fields, students who typically keep to their own groups in classrooms find themselves working together naturally. The sport creates an environment where collaboration becomes essential and communication barriers dissolve. Players are encouraged to speak whatever language feels comfortable, whether their mother tongue, Cantonese, or English, fostering an atmosphere of acceptance and mutual support.

The program's newest initiative, 'Play with Purpose: Rugby for Inclusion & Emotional Strength', will be rolled out in five secondary schools, with priority given to students from low-income families, ethnic minority groups, and mainland Chinese or cross-border communities. After training together, students compete in interschool competitions that strengthen their bonds and build lasting camaraderie.

The Ripple Effect

The impact extends far beyond the playing field. Surveys conducted by the charity show remarkable results: participants report feeling significantly more comfortable working with people from different backgrounds. Many become more confident using their native languages and making friends outside their usual circles. These young people are developing skills in teamwork, empathy, and resilience that will serve them throughout their school years and future careers.

For Aaminah Ahmed, the transformation has been profound. "I love it. It made me confident both in academics and in sports. I became more motivated," she shared. Deputy General Manager Peter Ng emphasizes that the program's goal is helping underprivileged youth integrate into mainstream society while building mental resilience.

Operation Santa Claus has raised approximately HK$396 million for over 365 charity projects since its founding, helping more than 100,000 people. This year's funding will support 13 charitable projects, including Rugby For Good's vital work in creating a more inclusive, connected Hong Kong, one rugby match at a time.