Day 8: Australia Game Day – Adjusting to Hong Kong Time
The schedule shifted today due to weather, meaning an earlier face-off against Australia. Hong Kong time meant an early start! We fueled up with breakfast, did our mobility work, and got ready to take on the Aussies. It’s always interesting playing teams from so far away; you really feel the distance in time zones when competing internationally.
Alt text: Lacrosse team strategizing before a game in Hong Kong, focusing on teamwork and game plan.
The game against Australia was intense. We managed to hold them to seven goals by halftime, playing with real team spirit and determination. Despite a tough loss, our focus immediately turned to the placement games. After dinner, we waited to find out who we’d be facing next, still running on Hong Kong time and tournament adrenaline.
Day 9: Free Day in Hong Kong Time – Exploring Jade Markets and Dim Sum
After the intensity of the Australia game, we had a much-needed day off. Waking up in Hong Kong time, we grabbed breakfast before heading to practice. It was a lighter session, mostly walkthroughs and some fun, competitive drills. Post-practice, lunch at the hotel, and then it was time to explore what Hong Kong offered beyond the lacrosse field.
Alt text: Friends bargaining for jade jewelry at the Jade Market in Hong Kong, experiencing local culture and shopping.
My roommate and some friends ventured to the Jade Market, a place overflowing with jade products, both authentic and imitation. Bargaining is part of the experience, and we haggled for jewelry and souvenirs. Afterward, our stomachs led us to a dim sum restaurant. A 20-minute walk brought us to delicious dim sum, a true taste of Hong Kong. Our shopping spree continued at Watsons for skincare products before heading back to the hotel, refreshed and ready for our next game, all while keeping track of Hong Kong time.
Day 10: Ireland Game Day – Game Time in Hong Kong
Placement game day arrived, and Ireland was our opponent. Morning in Hong Kong started with stretching and mentally preparing for the game. I went for treatment and PT, then joined my teammates for lunch and our pre-game team meeting and visualization. The Hong Kong time clock was ticking towards game time.
Alt text: Lacrosse players attentively watching a game between Hong Kong and Israel, scouting opponents and showing team support.
At the field, we watched Hong Kong play Israel, cheering on a fellow Virginia athlete. Then, it was our turn. Warming up, we geared up for a highly competitive match against Ireland. It was a close, back-and-forth battle, decided in the final seconds. Despite a tough 14-13 loss, my teammates were incredibly supportive, as were the Irish team and goalies. To unwind, we visited the night market after dinner, embracing the Hong Kong evening atmosphere.
Day 11: Practice and Hong Kong City Tour – Time to Explore
Morning practice focused on game strategies and clearing patterns. Goalies worked on pushing the ball forward and communication. Lunch followed, and then we planned our afternoon. My roommate and I enjoyed some downtime reading and making friendship bracelets. Craving Italian food, we headed to a mall, but our chosen restaurant was closed. A pizza place became the new target, leading us on an unexpected three-mile walk around the island, ending up at a Mediterranean Italian restaurant run by a Nepalese owner. It was a funny Hong Kong time adventure.
Alt text: Two friends exploring Hong Kong on foot, enjoying the city sights and urban environment during their free time.
Day 12: Haudenosaunee Game – Early Hong Kong Time Start
An early 8:30 a.m. game meant a 6 a.m. breakfast – a true Hong Kong time wake-up call! We prepared to play against the Haudenosaunee, representing the indigenous creators of lacrosse. Chef Alex, our team chef, came to support us! We sang our national anthem and played with heart. A strong comeback in the fourth quarter wasn’t enough, and we lost 16-13. Despite the loss, it was an honor to compete against the Haudenosaunee. The rest of the day was free time. My team manager, roommate, and I went for boba and more friendship bracelet supplies. A team dinner with families, friends, and coaches celebrated an amazing tournament and our team’s historic 12th place finish. I was also recognized for my goalie stats, ranking second in save percentage.
Alt text: Team posing for a group photo after a lacrosse game in Hong Kong, celebrating team spirit and tournament achievements.
Day 13: Bronze, Silver, Gold – Hong Kong Time Closing Ceremony
Woke up around 8 a.m. Hong Kong time, had breakfast and PT, and started packing for home. During free time, I made Mexico Lacrosse friendship bracelets to trade at the closing ceremonies. Lunch with a friend, then getting ready for the ceremonies and packing my trading bag.
Alt text: Medal ceremony at the international lacrosse tournament in Hong Kong, showcasing winning teams and athletic achievements.
The closing ceremony was a blast, seeing friends from other teams, celebrating, trading bracelets, taking photos, and watching the medal games. Japan won bronze, Canada silver, and the USA gold. One last night market visit after the ceremony before heading back to the hotel.
Alt text: Athletes exchanging gifts and celebrating at the closing ceremony of the lacrosse tournament in Hong Kong, fostering international sportsmanship.
Day 14: Disneyland and Goodbye Hong Kong Time!
Last team breakfast, goodbyes, and day plans. Since my flight was late, I squeezed in a visit to Disneyland! Rides, snacks, and souvenirs for everyone. Back to the hotel, dinner with coaches and a friend, then off to the airport. Looking back at Hong Kong as I boarded my flight, remembering the incredible time with my team, competing for Mexico.
Alt text: Airplane window view leaving Hong Kong at night, symbolizing the end of a memorable trip and return journey home.
A 12-hour flight home, family time, and then back to Longwood. Grateful for the experience, the friendships, and the memories made in Hong Kong time. Nos vemos pronto Hong Kong, Vamos México. Hola Longwood. Bella McCullough.
