Hong Kong Football Club are thrilled to announce that Alana Thomas has been hired as its Head of Women’s Rugby, a new full-time role within the Rugby Section.
Alana joins HKFC from Australia, where she has had experience as Head Coach of Australia A & the Melbourne Rebels in the Super W competition. Alana also has prior experience playing on the international stage, having played fly-half for the Wallaroos.
Alana’s role comes off the back of a revolutionary season for HKFC Natixis Ice, who won the Nan Fung | SEWIT Women’s Premiership for the first time in over 15 years. When asked how she wants to advance the women’s programme, Alana remarked “I hope to build a programme that leads and sets the standard in the league to grow players and staff alike.”
Stephen Dowse commented on the appointment, saying:
“We are delighted to welcome Alana to HKFC. Her appointment is another positive step in the development of women’s rugby at the club and demonstrates how important women’s and girl’s rugby is to our overall HKFC Rugby Strategy. Her experience at both the performance and community level is invaluable as we look to be recognised as the leading Rugby Club in Asia”
– Stephen Dowse, Director of Rugby
Alana will lead a new-look coaching team for HKFC Natixis Ice this season, with former Hong Kong China national coach Andrew Hall also joining as Forwards Coach. Former Head Coach Chris Garvey completes an impressive coaching team. Pete Ayres & Ed Barker will add their wealth of coaching experience to HKFC Natixis Fire’s Championship campaign this season.
Alana will also be responsible for the overall women’s & girl’s rugby pathway at HKFC, as the section continues to make a commitment to investing in the growth of domestic rugby.
“Alana’s appointment as a full-time rugby coach is a significant step for the HKFC Rugby Section. This crucial move underscores our commitment to nurturing talent across all levels, from our junior girls to our elite adult teams. Alana’s expertise will be essential in driving skill development, fostering an inspiring environment, and propelling our teams to new heights. This appointment reflects our dedication to gender diversity and ongoing development in the sport, truly making rugby at HKFC a game led by all.”
– Paul Skurr, HKFC Rugby Section Chairman
