Following is the speech by the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing, at the Prize Ceremony of the Hong Kong Lacrosse Open 2025 today (April 20):

Mr Warren Allderige (Chairman of Hong Kong, China Lacrosse Association), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

     Happy Easter and good evening. I am excited to be among so many youths. It is real pleaure to join you this evening at the Prize Ceremony of the Hong Kong Lacrosse Open 2025. First and foremost, let me extend my warmest congratulations to all winning teams on your spectacular performance.

     The Hong Kong Lacrosse Open is one of Asia's most competitive lacrosse tournaments. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the event has welcomed to Hong Kong a record-breaking 72 teams and over 700 athletes. With the addition of the U16, U12, U10 and U8 divisions, it brings a welcome new complexion to the sport. The unprecedented number of youth divisions participating in the event not only generates fresh momentum to the sport's development but also facilitates the grooming of young talents. Featuring some of the most gifted players from across Asia, the rounds of riveting matches have provided an invaluable opportunity for athletes to test their skills, widen their exposure and pursue excellence. I believe all players have found this action-packed weekend to be a thrilling and rewarding experience.

     I would like to take the opportunity to thank the Hong Kong, China Lacrosse Association, sponsors, supporting units and dedicated volunteers for bringing us this prominent event. I also wish to applaud the organiser's remarkable efforts in providing training to our young athletes to help them gear up for this tournament and the upcoming 2025 Asia-Pacific U16 Lacrosse Championship to be held in Jeju, Korea, this August.

     Lacrosse has seen tremendous growth worldwide over the past years. The inclusion of sixes lacrosse in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games is an apt recognition of the sport's enduring legacy, its global popularity and growing prominence. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will continue to support the Hong Kong, China Lacrosse Association in organising tournaments and training programmes to enhance the competitiveness of the Hong Kong team and drive the long-term development of the game.

     Lastly, I wish all athletes good luck in future tournaments and our visitors a memorable time going around the city during your stay in Hong Kong. Thank you.

Ends/Sunday, April 20, 2025
Issued at HKT 21:30

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