How did you become ANZA’s Head Soccer Coach?
How did you become ANZA’s Head Soccer Coach?In 2000, I was a part-time coach with ANZA. When the Head Coach resigned, I volunteered to step up. The support and trust from the committee gave me confidence to take on the challenge. We had 400+ registrations at the time and worked on a plan to improve the programme by hiring more professional coaches and talented parent coaches to support the players.
Have you always loved soccer?
When I was a kid, I used to carry my older brother’s soccer boots for him. He was a goalkeeper and watching him play matches made me want to be like him. I’ve been a Liverpool supporter since the 1970’s. I was starstruck by the goalkeeper Ray Clemence.
How did you start playing professionally?
I started playing for my estate’s school team and then for Tampines Rovers Police, Singapore’s National Youth team and Singapore’s National team. I still share dives and tricks with ANZA’s soccer players, although it takes me five minutes to get up now compared to back then!
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
ANZA kids are so keen to learn and improve themselves as players. This makes sessions engaging and fruitful not only for me, but importantly for the kids. Ultimately, “Head Coach” is just a title. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the immense support of the parents, coaches and the ANZA Soccer committee.
How do you plan programmes?
They are run according to the needs and the number of players. The professional and parent coaches are also given autonomy to tweak the training where necessary. When teaching kids, what’s arranged may not always go that way!
When did the Matildas start?
The Matildas started in 2016 when more girls joined ANZA Soccer. Our female players are more competitive than the males, hence they have won many tournaments! Our parent coaches Janelle, Leah and Tyske have helped ANZA Matildas soar to new heights.
Do you have a proudest moment?
Being a non-profit club, we may be seen as an underdog during competitions, but that never stops us from winning trophies at tournaments. When we win, the gleam of happiness from the children is irreplaceable. My heart swells with joy knowing how much work goes on behind the scenes from the players and the coaching team.
“When we win, the gleam of happiness from the children is irreplaceable”
How do you ensure that ANZA Soccer continues to grow?
I strongly believe that investing in professional coaches and having a pool of dedicated parents who understand soccer is essential to making the ANZA Soccer programme thrive. I’m constantly on the lookout for new coaching talent. We’re also always open to feedback from the parents and players on how we can make the sessions more beneficial. The pit stops I take after tournaments give me time to reflect on what can be improved.
What’s your vision for the future?
For ANZA Soccer to continue being a successful academy where all nationalities can unite, bond and be a family; a place children can look forward to attending every week and miss when we are on a break.
Discover more about ANZA Soccer at anza.org.sg/sports/soccer
