Bryn Phillips is aiming to inspire the next generation of city players at the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, while also plotting his exit strategy from a high-achieving career.

A key member of the 12-man Hong Kong squad for the exhibition Melrose Claymores tournament at Kai Tak Stadium, the scrum-half is ultimately aiming to follow in the footsteps of teammates Tom and Alex McQueen and become an airline pilot.

Playing his ninth year of international rugby, however, Phillips has plenty more he wants to achieve on the field before he converts the private pilot licence he gained last year, and his one night a week studies at HKU Space, into a full-time quest to fly for a living.

And although the Asian Games, World Cup and Olympics all feature among Phillips’ remaining sporting goals, the 33-year-old called his home sevens “the highlight of my year”.

“It means everything,” he said. “We often play away in front of small crowds, so having the home fans, and our friends and family there, it’s our chance to inspire the local and younger generation.

“It’s our shop window, and an opportunity to have an impact and prove ourselves.”