Celebrating Rugby’s Legacy: Tokkie Smith Returns for the 50th Anniversary of Rugby 7s

We’re thrilled to announce that John D’Eathe’s acclaimed book, Tokkie Smith and the Colour of Rugby, is being re-released in an updated Second Edition.

As the world gets ready to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the HK Rugby 7s, there’s no better time to revisit one of the sport’s most compelling untold stories.

Originally published as both a history and a celebration of one of rugby’s true pioneers, Tokkie Smith captures the spirit of the game in a way few books can. Smith’s story is more than just rugby; it’s about community, resilience, and the multicultural foundation of the sport.

This updated edition arrives just in time for the Rugby 7s milestone, offering readers, both longtime fans and newcomers, a chance to connect with the legacy that shaped the game as we know it today.

What’s Inside the Second Edition:

• Updated title 'Creating the Hong Kong Sevens’ was added to reflect the upcoming anniversary

• Updated author section to reflect on the impact this book had since Tokkie has now taken his rightful place in rugby history

• 140 photos documenting the rich history of rugby
  

Why Now:

With the 50th anniversary of the HK Rugby 7s shining a spotlight on the game’s history, this re-release is more than just a book launch, it’s a celebration of rugby’s cultural and social significance.

👉 Be part of the legacy. Order your copy of Tokkie Smith and the Colour of Rugby: Creating the Hong Kong Sevens (Second Edition) today and celebrate 50 years of Rugby 7s with us.

Order your copy today