BRFC 2013 Interview: Adik

Blackswrugby: Congrats on becoming a Rugbymum recently! Please share with us any tell-tale rugby talents from your son? 

Adik: Azel has no reaction to pain. He loves to bang his head on his Dad's shoulders. He has very strong kicks. And he growls. Hahaha! 

Blackswrugby: With all the life experiences from a veteran rugger till a rugbymum, please give us some tips on how to have a good work-rugby-family-life balance!

Adik: I can't answer this question because I have stopped playing rugby. Training does take a lot of time because you have to do your own training on top of team training and having a son doesn't allow that. As a mom, you would want to spend as much time with your son especially in his developmental years.

Blackswrugby: fess up - your real name isn't Adik

Adik: The name came about because my elder sister and I came into Blacks at the same time and our names are very similar (Aslina & Aslinda). They decided to call us Kakak (elder sis) and Adik (younger sis) for convenience. The name stuck since then. Well, anyway I was the youngest in the club at that time so it fitted well. Hahahhaah!



Blackswrugby: Did you, like Ennie Toh and Kakak, come from the land before time?

Adik: I was a part of Blacks Angels, the first Black’s women’s team ever formed. Way before Ennie came into Blacks I think.



Blackswrugby: In another of our clumsy attempts to perform neat nifty footwork just like you - Did you write the pylometric sutra?

Adik: Haha, not exactly. I started off as a netball player and was playing very competitively at a national level where we did a lot of pylo work, more than we played the actual game itself. Compiled a lot since then.




Blackswrugby: Wonderkid image aside, have you had bad moments or faced any difficulties in your playing career? 

Adik: I guess it’s a phase everyone has to go through before reaching great heights. Yes, I was very fearful of the physical demands of the game. It took a lot of courage to do a tackle on someone in the initial stage. Trust me, I was very small when I first started. But when it gets fun and you grasp the concept of the game, it’s easy to work your way around it.

Bad moments in rugby - when you know you had your man, but you let her go because you weren’t fit enough to bring the bugger down. So I did fitness sessions to the point of madness. But the good part was that I didn’t have to do it alone. My teammates, the coach and the team manager were there; I did it because they made me realize I could do it, that I could finish. Never regretted my decision to play.



Blackswrugby: What’s your best rugby memory?

Adik: My rookie year in Hong Kong, 2001. We were playing against Thailand and I was playing scrumhalf. Was a very raw player at that time. Followed whatever my coach or teammates told me to do. Tabbie was stand off, and it was off a scrum where she kept calling “Adik!!!!!! I want the ball!! Give me a good ball!! Give me the ball!!!” I decided to pull a fast one. I picked up the ball and ran straight for the try. Got the rookie of the year award. Hahahah! Very exciting!



Blackswrugby: What has rugby taught you that netball didn’t?

Adik: Rugby has taught me that you don’t have to be tall and wear body suits to be good at the game. And of course, mental strength, it’s gotten me this far.



Blackswrugby: For curiosity’s sake…ever tried being a prop?

Adik: I tried hooking once, and it was my first and my last time. Hahahah! I was born with an abnormally crooked spine, this, I’m not joking. So technically, my back is not very strong. One of the nights at SPE, we worked on the scrum machine. My first hit on the machine was dramatic, because I couldn’t get up after that. Hahahah! Till now, you can ask Mr Tong, I still can’t get my back straight on the machine. It was a dreadful incident, but every time that I think about it, I will laugh at myself.



Blackswrugby: Any damage (physical or otherwise) sustained from either sport?

Adik: One thing I wish to emphasize to all the athletes out there is that injuries are inevitable in sports. But you can try to avoid it by preparing yourself physically and doing all the required conditioning needed. A lesson learnt for me is that I was lazy to work on my shoulders and now, once in a while, my shoulder goes into a popping frenzy.

Had a concussion once, hahah, Miss Wang can verify me vomiting in the toilet and off the pitch in Bangkok after a game. It was dreadful. And of course sprains on both ankles. And my knees feel a 100 years old right now.



Blackswrugby: If rugby didn’t work out, you would have…

Adik: Become a boxer.



Blackswrugby: From whom do you draw your inspiration/depend on for support?

Adik: Mr Gene Tong was my inspiration to work hard for rugby. He’s one of the most positive coaches I’ve ever had and I’ve learnt so much from him, that to give up the game after all the years that he has spent coaching us for free would be an injustice. Even though he made us do a lot of stuff that nearly made us go crazy, he believed in us. He’s definitely an inspiration.

I remember the time I dislocated my thumb when we went up to Perth to play, and I was in a lot of pain. He strapped it up and said “I’m gonna strap up your thumb real good, so that you’ll feel like Superman and you won’t feel the slightest pain”. He put me back in the field to play, and I didn’t remember that I dislocated it until I got off the field. Yeah, I must have been really young and maybe dumb to believe what he said, but I did and I played and all went good.

One quote from Mr Tong “When you bring out the best in yourself, you tend to bring out the best in others.”

I also am very lucky to have very supportive teammates who take care of me and keep telling me that we’ll do it as a team.

Nothing can stop us if we do it together. They are always covering my back.
And of course, I’ll always have support from my mom who keeps bringing me back and forth to the hospital for treatments and traditional massages, and my Kakak who bought me my first pair of boots, and my boyfriend who constantly has to bear with my mood swings when I’m tired from training. 
Hahahha, yeah sometimes you just need a person to hold you so tight till you can’t breathe to get your sanity back in place. Hahahah!

BRFC 2013 Interview: Azurah

Blackswrugby: How long have you been playing rugby / for Blacks?

Azurah:  Tried rugby out in 2002 & I broke my leg during my first game  -____- , not sure whether it counts but yeah I stopped for a few years to learn how to walk again during rehabilitation.  One night at Bugis, I was blessed to have bumped into Jane & the rest is history.

Blackswrugby: How do you get so strong?

Azurah: I've got Yoda on my side!! \m/  Strength is very subjective and I feel that it compromises of outer and inner strength.  Outer strength I would say partly comes from having to lift my fellow jumpers & trying to "gracefully" contest in a scrum.  When you've got someone's ASS(not sure whether I can use the word ASS) on the line(literally!) & having to channel the power in a scrum you've got to strive to be stronger.  Which means hitting the gym & doing whatever you need to improve.  Which there's still room for me to improve on!  A wise man once said "With great power, comes great responsibility".  In this case it applies both ways.

To add, Yoda's wisdom taught us all that we can never under estimate one's inner strength.  We've seen smaller players who are stronger than bigger players, where does it all come from?? It's their inner strength I tell you!!

Blackswrugby: Besides rugby, do you compete in other sports?

Azurah: Is this a trick question??  Where do I find the time to?? haha.. I do compete in teeny weeny non-rugby tournaments here & there when time allows me to.  Also I secretly(well not a secret anymore) hope I could pick up MMA/Crossfit(super amazed by the strength & flexibility, which requires different set skill & focus compared to rugby) when the time comes? Maybe? Who knows what the future brings.

Blackswrugby: What is the one thing you must do / must have when before coming for trainings? (Studded boots not included)

Azurah: I'm assuming I'll be all packed and dressed for training so plugging in to my tunes is a must!!

Blackswrugby: Are there moments when you feel like giving up this sport altogether? If there are, what keeps you coming back for more?

Azurah: I'd be lying if I said No especially after(for me) my worst injury ever when I fractured my eye socket in 2 places, recovering from that was the hardest not knowing if my vision would heal back to normal & all that uncertainty just bugs you.  I was blessed that I had a strong support system & eventually I pulled through it!

The adrenaline for one, the challenge of the sport physically & mentally.  Also knowing I've still got some things that I'd like to do.  I still have the capacity to learn from my team-mates & other players regardless of seniority.  

Blackswrugby: Is there a rugby hero in your life? (Someone whom you look up to for inspiration)

Azurah: Gosh! Rugby hero?? ..hmmmm I've got superheroes, does that count?? haha.. 

To be honest the seniors before me that started the club & introduced rugby with their blood, sweat & tears.  Every single one of them, their determination & fighting spirit including those who weren't from Blacks without them we wouldn't be so blessed with the opportunities we have today.  For that I thank them all!

Blackswrugby: We've tasted some of your own cooked food; how is it always so delicious! (It is mandatory to share your secrets!) 

Azurah: Haha! So sweet of you guys! I'm sure they're not always so delicious!  No secrets lah only MADE WITH LOVE ;)

Blackswrugby: Since we're about food, does Rugby has an effect on any of your eating habits or stuff that you want to cook?

Azurah: Yes & No I guess.  In fact playing rugby has taught me to understand more about the food we need to fuel our body & knowing the ingredients we cook with is always better.  When I eat junk stuff I'm hoping that I'll burn it off during trainings..haha

Blackswrugby: If you can describe Rugby in one word, what is it?

Azurah: Maverick (because it sounds way cooler than Unorthodox!)

Blackswrugby: Any words of wisdom for the juniors in the club?

Azurah: You'll never know when your good or bad days will come but what you can do is to treat the field like an experiment during practice.  It can go either way, you'll be screamed at or not.  You'll never know unless you give it a shot.  Whether it's a chip & chase, backflip passes, kicks or whatever.  Just go for it!  We only learn from the mistakes we make, improve on them & excel by challenging ourselves to do something out of the box.  I'm not saying go all crazy & stuff, practise beforehand because after all it's a team sport, you wouldn't want your team-mates kicking you off the team!  We're all different and contribute in different ways, why not explore those possibilities?  Why not?

"May the force be with you" 

BRFC Interview 2013: Eunice Tay

Blackswrugby: How many years have you played rugby for?

Eunice: 12 years.

Blackswrugby: What drew you to the sport?

Eunice: The adrenaline and aggressiveness of the sport. Rugby is a thinking sport and I love the challenge that I face every time I step onto the field. 

Blackswrugby: Tell us about your most memorable experience playing rugby?

Eunice: 

There's few memorable experiences. 

1. Bangkok 7s - when we (blacks) won the Royal Thai Airforce team in the final. The condition of the pitch was muddy and the game was very close. 

2. When Spore team was 2nd in Asia and captaining the spore team. 

3. All the great friends I made through rugby. 

Blackswrugby: Share with us about your 'Ah-Lian' title

Eunice: My auntie gave me the ah lian title when I was a teenager. The title came back to me as I used to be very bad tempered when I started playing rugby. But I'm not a typical ah lian, I'm a high class lian. 

Blackswrugby:  Favourite pre-match meal?

Eunice: Bananaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

Blackswrugby: You’re into refereeing now, what is the biggest difference about it from playing?

Eunice: As a player, you always have team mates to back you up but as a referee, you have to back yourself up. But regardless whether you are a player or referee, very decision you make must be accurate and sharp. There is no room for mistakes..

Blackswrugby: If you could give a piece of advice to rookies or anyone who wants to take up the sport, what would it be?

Eunice:  Never give up attitude and always fight to the final whistle regardless the score. 

Blackswrugby: Any chances of making a comeback?

Eunice: Not at competitive level. Maybe recreational level. I love refereeing and want to focus and pursue it seriously

Blackswrugby:  Everyone has tough times. What is the biggest motivation that picks up up when you fall??

Eunice: In life, there's always up and down..... you just have to pick yourself up and move forward. Always be positive and happy as life is short. There are many other people who are less fortunate than me. 

Blackswrugby: If there's one thing you can do to change the world, what would that be?

Eunice:  To have another world which is very colourful, just like Alice in Wonderland or in never never land.

BRFC 2013 Interview: Jacqueline Sng

Blackswrugby: What is your secret to being so strong? Share please!

Jacqueline: Simple, one cup of iron nails, one tablespoon of rocks and a teaspoon of sugar for flavour. Blend it up and drink first thing in the morning. Kidding......I have been hitting the gym since I was pre-pubescent. I just think the muscles and basic strength stuck with me even though I rarely lift anything now. *attach ''do you even lift meme''*

Blackswrugby: What sport were you in before rugby?

Jacqueline: I did sprint kayaking for about 10 years and also played tennis.

Blackswrugby: How did you pick up this sport?

Jacqueline: Tao Jing and Sarah-Jean, my classmates in uni tried many times to convince me to play. However, I was still paddling competitively and didn't want to risk any broken bones. It was during my final year in uni that I decided to try out something new and gave rugby a shot.

Blackswrugby: Was it difficult making the transition?

Jacqueline: To be honest, it felt weird touching people (and even worst tackling) at the start. In kayaking, we stay in our own boats and race lanes so the idea of human contact and invading someone's space was so alien to me. I had to learn to work in a team and tells myself it's okay when someone pulls you down onto the ground because it's part of the game and not take it too personally.

Blackswrugby:  Share with us what's going on in your head before each tackle.

Jacqueline: EAT GRASS WHOEVER IS OPPOSITE ME!

Blackswrugby: Favorite thing about rugby?

Jacqueline: Every game is different and so dynamic. I like that it is not an easy feat and it challenges me physically and even more, mentally.

Blackswrugby: Bruises, injuries and all, do the kids and colleagues in school get curious?

Jacqueline:  Concealer is my best friend. The one from M.A.C covers almost any bruise that you have. They know nothing.

Blackswrugby: Describe yourself in one word. 

Jacqueline: Awkward

Blackswrugby: What is your favourite super hero if any and why?

Jacqueline: Not really into super heroes and all the shenanigans. But I guess if you could fly or teleport it would be very awesome, Travelling from place to place is really one of the greatest pains in my you know what.

Blackswrugby: If there's one thing you can do to change the world, what would that be?

Jacqueline:  I'll bring Michael Jackson back to life so he can whoop Justin Bieber's and One Direction's ass for polluting my ear with bad songs. (Sorry Unagi!) Seriously...I have no idea. Why must you ask such a philosophical question???

Boot Camp 2013

FAQ

Q:  Whats with this Boot Camp and what does BTB stand for?
A:  This is the fourth edition of the Blacks Boot Camp. Boot Camps are held as and when we need a whipping. Bring to Boil. Back to Basics. All about the same innit?

Q:  Why must bring passport?
A:   It's for your own good. Unless you want to be stuck nekked at customs doing squats

Q:  What else do I need to know?
A:  Not much. Just show up and be prepared for anything. ANYTHING.

BRFC 2013 Interview: Radika PS

Back: Radika PS

Blackswrugby: How long have you been playing rugby for? Who/what made you join this sport?

Radika: Been playing since 1998 but started out playing touch as women's contact rugby was not developed yet. It was only through a good friend of mine who introduced me to the sport. So my friends and i decided to form a team and play in competitions organized by SRU. Then i continued playing touch in school as a CCA.

I joined Blacks in 2002, started out playing touch. It was the seniors who convinced us (the rookies) to try playing contact and have never looked back since..


Blackswrugby: Describe your most memorable experience playing rugby for Singapore and for the club.

Radika: 
For Singapore, it was the 15s game in HK and I was nervous though it wasn't my first time playing with the HK team. It was one of the games that I tackled the most and the hardest and didn't missed any tackles.

For club, it was during my first overseas 7s tournament in Hadyai. Was scared shit cos i was playing in the seniors team and i didn't want to screw up the game plan. We won and it was my first time winning in contact rugby!


Blackswrugby: Do you think physical size is a major factor to succeed? 

Radika: Nope. There are some international rugby players who are also physically smaller in size and yet they play good rugby. It's all about the skills and passion.


Blackswrugby: Describe your pain and pleasure of playing rugby on a good or bad day.

Radika: Those days at Farrer Park are the best! Though the field (muddy/potholed)and shower facilities are not great, we never complained. Rain or shine, injured or sick, I was always looking forward to trainings every Sunday.


Blackswrugby:  Share with us about your speed trainings in Kenya or your normal routine as a shadow. 

Radika: Hahaha - can't afford a coach in Kenya. Public transport system is such that the buses/trains only operate once in every few days so fastest way is to get from one place to another is by running. If you're lucky, probably can get a ride from a cow on the way!
Nothing special basically, I do my own runs and hit the gym at least once a week.


Blackswrugby: How do you manage work, rugby and social life and when was the last time you found it hard to strike a balance?

Radika: It was when i was still a student. Trainings were like 3-4 days a week - club and school trainings. But luckily i still managed to have a social life as my good friends too played rugby for both club and school. So basically we get to hang out more often!
Well now most of them have 'retired' from the sport, so we make a point to meet up at least once a month cos of their busy work/family schedules as well. I'm glad to have great support from my loved ones and that they didn't ditch me and find someone to replace me in the group! :)


Blackswrugby: What is your greatest motivation on the field?

Radika:  My greatest motivation is the ball! Every time when I hold the ball, it's telling me to try something new/diff with it.
Can I say who instead?? If yes, it's Bryan Habana from SA. He's not that big and he's an awesome winger!


Blackswrugby: If you had 24 hrs to change the world, what would you change first and why?

Radika: That money will not exist in the world. Money destroys everything and widens the gap between the rich and the poor. Everyone should be treated equally regardless of money. Money doesn't define a person.


Blackswrugby: As a senior in the club, please provide in great detail, your top 3 advice for your less experienced team mates.

Radika: 
1) No pain no gain!
2) Don't cheat cos you're only cheating yourself!
3) Practise makes perfect!
Spend some time working on specific skills on your own. Eg: passing, kicking, side-step etc. Watching rugby games will help you to understand the game better and also to motivate you to try things at trainings.


Blackswrugby: Provide 3 adjectives that best describe your game of rugby.

Radika: 
Hardworking
Passionate
Determined

BRFC 2013 Interview: Si Ying

Forward: Chang Si Ying

Blackswrugby: How long have you been playing rugby for? Who/what made you join this sport?

SiYing: It all started out in PESS when my classmate, Tao, invited several of us to join a rugby clinic. So thinking that a PE teacher should be equipped with a repertoire of skills and since  its always good to be exposed to more sports, I gave it a try and then went on to continue with NTU Women's rugby which consist of almost all my class girls. As trainings was becoming more intense, I decided to be less involved in the Netball scene so I stopped playing, coaching and umpiring Netball  so as to focus on rugby wholeheartedly.


Blackswrugby: Describe your pain and pleasure of playing rugby on a good or bad day.

SiYing: I still remember that awful feeling when I woke up the next day after my first 7s game at KL. I was practically whining non-stop to my room mate as I did not expect such terrible body aches and bruises. Although I was new to the team, I was not one of the youngest members so basically my room mate looked at me sternly, told me that it's rugby and I better suck it up. So fierceeee!


Blackswrugby:  What was your greatest fall (literally or metaphorically) and what made you come back from that?

SiYing: I was very disheartened when I first realised that my left knee tendon was inflamed and exasperated when it started giving me problems (although my injury is not as serious as many who have been out.) Having played other sports competitively before, I have never been in such a situation whereby it caused so much discomfort even when I am not playing. When teaching and at night, the aching feeling was so unbearable but it really taught me to learn to manage my own body better because the last thing you want to know is that you cannot play for your team due to injuries.


Blackswrugby: What do your students think of your sadistic love for bruises and passion for adrenaline-charged tackles?

SiYing: I think my students secretly like to count the bruises and inform me about them? Or maybe they are more of being nosey or probably sometimes concerned about how I get the bruises. However, I think my colleagues are always the one who looked very shocked and worried when they see the bruises on my body and are amazed that there's women's rugby around in Singapore. When I get such reactions, it's just time for me to educate them. Zzz. 

Blackswrugby: Have you ever secretly thought of implementing our fitness trainings into your PE lesson plan?

SiYing: Hahahahah! I do add in some elements of it into my own teaching, especially fitness and conditioning for my children. I mean children love challenges and new variations so that will keep them interested. When I take my recreational basketball girls I will also add in simple parts of it and then put in the necessary related components catered for the sport itself.


Blackswrugby: Do you have any pre-game rituals?

SiYing: Hmm, probably just making sure my hair is tie up tight and properly using my favorite hair tie?


Blackswrugby: Who inspires you and name 3 friends who have made you want to improve yourself as a player?

SiYing: I feel that there's really a lot to learn from every single person in Blacks. For instance, one of my teammates may well be demonstrating strong determination when completing one of the drills and I want to be like her or maybe another team mate who shows great dedication in this sport and I wish to learn from her too. In fact, I share what I see or learn in Blacks with my pupils. So I would say, everyone has a role to play in making me a better player. (:


Blackswrugby: In life, if you didnt have rugby along with all the trainings, gym sessions and games, what would you be doing with all the free time?

SiYing: Just recently when I can afford to have free time, I will go jogging and strolls at different parks or nature reserve. But then again, it's not all the time, it still depends on my mood. Hahaha. 

Blackswrugby: Give 3 wordsthat best describe why you are still here with the club.

SiYing: I can't really figure out any 3 words but "TEAM" (Together Everyone Achieves More) just came into my mind. This is THE team that makes me feel that everyone works hard for one another and it's through everyone's effort that we attain our goals.

BRFC 2013 Interview: Derelyn

Back: Derelyn Chua Jia Ling

Blackswrugby: How long have you been playing rugby (Touch and Contact) and when did you join BRFC?

Dereyln: Touch nearly 12 years now; Union 10 years. Joined Blacks 10 years ago

Blackswrugby:  We’ve heard about your unquestionable calling as a debater in secondary school. What made you switch from Toastmaster to Rugger?

Dereyln:  I was in Speakers' Club which did debates and a host of other school-related activities; and in Touch back in St Andrew's Junior College -so there wasn't exactly a switch. Debate season also ended early, like first quarter of the year, which made playing touch manageable. And really, I didn't enjoy exercising so Speakers' Club was my first choice. I joined Touch purely out of peer pressure -my *only* friend in the first week of school joined touch. 

I started playing Union when Serena Yeoh, my coach back then, invited the touch team down after A-Levels, and I've never looked back since.

Blackswrugby: Based on a general consensus, you are known to be the omniscient one in the club. Describe your divine power and how your influential pronouncements have saved many team mates who were unawares of their eventual downfall.

Dereyln: (o__O) I never knew I wielded such power -thaaanks for the new information, I will use such influence accordingly WUAHAHA kidding. And no, I've since been overtaken by the information superhighway in the form of a few younger players. So really, go ask them, not me. 

Blackswrugby: Describe your top 3 favorite tours in the past 10 years.

Dereyln: I don't even think I was on tour with Blacks that many times over the 10 years -I swear!!! 

(1) Sydney: We had an EIGHT-HOUR TRANSIT in Brunei ok. That's like the total flight duration to Sydney -I started on the Harry Potter series during the transit because there really wasn't much to do. And to emphasise how long 8 hours really is, I finished the series (up to the Order of the Phoenix cos that was the latest book out then) during the transit. *never again friends* 

(2) Bangkok: It's always fun being in BKK -I think my first tour was to BKK and there was an initiation on the last night of the tour. What little memories I have of that night include waking up feeling extremely sick, dragging my sorry ass to Chatuchak in a tuktuk which made me hurl more than once, and oh yes, I remain extremely adverse to Bombay Blue even till today. 

Blackswrugby: What was your most memorable tournament under BRFC?

Dereyln:  The first Blacks RFC Midnight 7s -we won the Jane Lee Challenge Trophy then. I still remember parts of the game as if it were in slow-motion, and the flood of emotions after the ref blew the final whistle.

Blackswrugby: You have played for many state and club tournaments as well as led teams in the various touch wings to glorious wins. What are the differences between the top teams and the worst teams you’ve played in?

Dereyln:  It's a different type of pressure that I put on myself. With the top teams, all I'm telling myself is not to screw up, do the simple things rights, get the ball to the right person and they'll work the magic -I'm really more of a support player for the top teams I play for. But for the "lesser" teams, I tend to have to work harder as a playmaker, a role I've never been entirely comfortable with, and just hope for the best.

There really isn't a difference between a top team and lesser team, just disparity in the skill-level. The truly worst teams are those that I find I'm killing myself over during the game, and the rest just aren't trying -these teams make me want to throttle someone and then retire altogether.

Blackswrugby: Its time to come clean Derel…what is your secret to becoming top try scorer?

Dereyln: Actually these days (past few years) I haven't been scoring very much. I'm heavier and slower now, and find the try line usually a bit too far away. I still do try to break the first line of defence, and that happens because I fear very much for my life. AHAHAHAH I find that I've become better at avoiding tackles when I started playing in Australia because everyone else is bigger and they could *seriously* end me in a tackle, easy. So, if I tried really hard to just get out of their arms' reach, and find the smallest opposition player to run into, my life would be glorious cos I would have survived. Survival was something I tried to accomplish every Saturday in Perth. 

Blackswrugby: Wookie leads The Simple Life. Describe his struggles as your companion, apart from having to walk himself while you attend to rugby trainings.

Dereyln: He doesn't like walking so stop taking him on walks when I'm training (-___-). I think he gets car sick so I don't think he really enjoys car rides to games; it took him a while to get used to being on my bicycle too. Game days are too hot -he much prefers game nights. He's quite into astro cos he wouldn't get dirty and the grass isn't long enough to tickle his underbelly. He wishes people wouldn't try to cuddle him when they're all dirty and sweaty -the list really goes on but he's too patient to want to complain that much (^___^)

Blackswrugby: What is your kryptonite?

Dereyln: Wookie -I turn to a puddle of mush when I see him!!! Also, not good with dairy before games. 

Blackswrugby: Who motivates you to become a better mentor (to your team mates), rugby player and friend on the rugby field and how do you balance these three roles?

Dereyln:  Mostly the senior players -I know what it feels like what you have more experienced players looking out for you both on and off the field, so you know what needs to be done better. I don't really differentiate between the roles, but I do try to be more accommodating about differences in personality and playing styles.

Blackswrugby: Please complete the following sentences

- Rugby to me in the next 5 years mean SEA Games GOLD

- I solemnly swear to be more patient towards my own teammates and release the beast only on the opponents.

- The best thing about playing in Blacks is we always look out for each other. On most weeks during the season, I see the team more than my own family and this forced time together coupled with crazydemonfitnessmasterwingslavedriver helps bring the team closer. 

BRFC 2013 Interview: Joanne Archana Bala

Forward: Joanne Archana Bala

Blackswrugby: We all call you Bala but your friends call you Joanne and your parents call you Archana. Reveal your true identity. Who are you?

Bala(?): I like being an enigma! Hahah. I'm just an average Indian princess, really.



Blackswrugby: When did you join BRFC and how long have you been playing since?

Princess Enigma (PE): Been playing since 2009, started with NUS but I think I probably joined Blacks in 2011 if I got all my math right.



Blackswrugby: You switched from Judo in Junior College to contact rugby in University. I see similarities in the kinematic strikes and pinning your opponents down on attack but what are the major and subtle differences between the two sports that have made adapting to rugby difficult or easy?

PE: The whole issue of the ball makes the two really really different. Plus judo is an individual sport so it's just you against the opponent but in rugby you get the whole issue of team dynamics and working with 14 other people on the pitch, I think it's amazing.
I must say it's easier because I'm not afraid of contact and getting down and dirty- probably still my favourite part of the game. But when I do make tackles my judo senses take over sometimes and I end up having these super dramatic slow-mo spin the person to the ground kinda tackles.



Blackswrugby: The rainstorm and the voices of the mountains have brought news that you are officially a full time aunt to your brother’s kids. Who are they and is there a correlation between raising your nephews and playing rugby? What have they taught you about life so far?

PE: Nikhilan and Lohithan, or Niks and Bumbum. They are adorable and a handful for sure! They really just light up the house and they really make you appreciate each day, as lame as that may sound. Also, I've learnt that you can't say no to a 3 year old kid. Ever.



Blackswrugby: Describe your top 2 favorite tours in the past years.

PE: #1 was definitely Perth in 2011. The games were  fun because the teams were bigger and they seemed more intimidating but that just made the friendlies so much more exciting, you know? Plus, the post-game road trip was just a lot of fun it was like everyone became one big happy family (:

The random Thistle trips in JB have been good too! The nice hotels and the lepaking with good food.. Good times!



Blackswrugby: What was your most memorable tournament under BRFC?

PE: I would have to say the one that just ended earlier this year. Victory after losing to Bedok Kings for 2 years was VERY SWEET.



Blackswrugby: Who and what motivates you to push harder during training?

PE: Everyone in the team. Knowing my teammates are going through the same thing and having them cheer you on just makes you not want to give up and go all our for them.



Blackswrugby: What was your toughest moment in your entire rugby career and what made it such a difficult journey? In retrospect, what did you learn from that and what words of advice do you have for the incoming/new players?

PE: This one is kinda tough, I've been blessed to not have any major injury and stuff (hope this doesn't jinx it) and I feel like there hasn't been one particular event that has been difficult. BUT, that being said I feel like I am constantly challenged with this sport and that's what I lvoe about it! Newbies, even if it gets tough and even if it feels like you can't get something, JUST KEEP GOING. With enough determination and  work, you'll get it. Also, don't be paiseh to ask seniors if you need help. Everyone might shout and be sightly crazy on the field but everyone's normal and way more chill off the pitch!



Blackswrugby: Please complete the following sentences:

- Rugby to me in the next 5 years means I'll be 29. O_o With my bones intact, hopefully.
- I solemnly swear I'm up to no good?
- The best thing about playing in Blacks is that it's like having a second family you know you can always count on

BRFC 2013 Interview: Serena

Back: Serena Yeoh Yai Kuan

Blackswrugby (back in 2005): You must be quite the encyclopedia of drink mixes after all those years in the F&B business, what's in an Irish Car Bomb?

Serena: Simi Irish Car Bomb….that one I don't know lah, BRAIN HAMORRHAGE you want….Beer, with a shooter glass of Bailey's mixed in and grenadine…Try it….You will know what I mean….This one is the after effect of the car bomb …hahahahahah



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Right so for the record, let's have it… were you always this lean-mean-fearless machine … really.

Serena: When I first started rugby, there were a lot of times I wanted give up. I felt that the game was so technical and I didn't understand what the coach was talking about. When it came to drills and fitness times, I was so unfit then (I was 10kg heavier then, I felt so heavy and my legs just couldn't move) that I always ended up being one of the last few or even the last...It was really discouraging.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Every training, I had a fear. A fear of not being able to keep up. But in every session, I will just keep trying my best and in my mind, I did a lot of POSITIVE self talk. Well, it was not overnight, there were many times on the field that I really felt like just giving up and stepping out from the drills but I was determined to carry on. 

Serena: However, there was one thing that kept me to continue with the sport was that I told myself since I have started it, I wouldn't give it up halfway. When I looked at my teammates around me...I was thinking to myself, how do these people make it? If they can, I also can. So other then starting to work on my fitness levels, I started reading more on how to improve on my own fitness and most importantly, I kept doing self-talk in my mind.

Before I knew it, with the hard work and efforts that I put in my own personal trainings, it paid off after months and gradually, you realize that you are no longer lagging behind. I was able to keep up. Also, you got to be patient with yourself. Sometimes, things don't just go the way you want overnight. It takes time to grow. Just like when you are growing a plant, you need to water it daily and feed it with fertilisers...with patience and care, you will reap what you sow.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): You've got some real fancy footwork and body-bending moves to beat your defenders out there on the field, is that a product of a youth spent at tea dances or some serious one-on-one training?

Serena: Hahhaha….No way…I have never been to any of those tea dances before…but friends of mine that went taught me these moves…you know during younger days in school in NPCC, got to put up dance performances so we will try out all these different dance steps….and of course, watching Paula Abdul..hahahah…cold..cold..cold-hearted snake…hahahah..if some of you know this song….
Anyway, on the serious side, I started on agility (SAQ) once a week after last April for a period of time for once a week with the help of Adik, together with Sam and Wan, it definitely improved the footwork.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): In a recent interview, one of your Rugby heroes Tana Umaga said, "You get old, that's just the way it is and you can't beat Father Time. Everyone's waiting for me to go"
Although here at Blacks we're all hoping you set the precedent for women playing rugby until a ripe old age, how much longer do you see yourself putting your body on that line?

Serena: Competitively, to be realistic, maybe another 4-5 years….Unrealistically….maybe another 10 years….I mean, internationally, the oldest player that we knew, she is a grandmother and still playing then in her late 40s is it? Or almost early 50s?
On a recreational level, I guess as long as I can…to continue to maintain fitness and stay healthy…



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Gene Tong - Mentor, Husband, Friend, Coach - in which order?

Serena: Hahhahaha…this question very hard to answer lah….tricky…hahahahah…depends which situation. Guess when it's training times on the field…the order is, Coach, Mentor, Friend, Husband. But when it's out of training times, I would say, Husband, Friend, Mentor and then coach..(Actually…just, the first three I would say)



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): As a coach, are there differences from the times you were a rookie? Some of the younger players think the older folks are masochist masters and fitness sadists - we scream too much, are too critical. Are the younger ones getting soft or are the older players just plain Looney? 

Serena: There are definitely a lot of differences comparing when I first started as a rookie and the rookies now. I remembered that when I first started, my seniors were never so patient or willing to teach and share information with us, the rookies. The only thing they were capable to do was to shout and literally scream at your face during all the trainings. Hardly were there any seniors that will come and share with us what our mistakes were. You get screamed at and shouted at for not running fast, for not passing a proper pass and for not receiving or catching the pass. Basically there was no tolerance for mistakes.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): During every training, there were times when your tears were at the brink of your eyes, but you just had to control it and keep your mouth shut and bite your tongue and carry on. To learn to play the game was very much on your own, basically, we learnt it through the whistles from the referees during the breakdown of games. The rookies then, we never questioned, we never gave attitude, we wanted to prove to the seniors that we could do it. 

Serena: The younger ones these days are getting softer…no offense to you all young ones out there….a lot of times when criticisms are given, not trying to be personal but however helping you all to improve, the reaction that we get in return is Being Defensive. Sometimes, they become loads of excuses….

Older folks masochist masters and fitness sadists?…I don't think so….I just know that the seniors we all know what we want to achieve as a whole and as individuals, but the younger ones out there, do you know what you want to achieve? Or you all are doing it just because you have to do it? Do it for a reason and ask yourself what it is….

This is something I must definitely say, the young ones are really having an easy time in terms of trainings compared to us in the past…Fitness wise, hmmm….no way like how we did it in the past…An advice to the young ones…sometimes just do it…don't have to talk too much…Action speaks louder than words. Also, do it with a goal….don't do it blindly….



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Back to your battered body, is it really all IN THE MIND? Pray tell, how does one become Wonder Woman?

Serena: Sustaining injuries while playing is inevitable. It is important to learn how to manage injuries and be positive about it. I have been injured quite a few times, through my own experience, of course, it was not easy, seeing your teammates training and you can't join them...it can be very depressive... First thing that comes into my head, shucks...cannot play...second thing that comes to my mind....die lah, cannot train means PUT ON WEIGHT...FAT...hahahha.

But nevertheless, you just have to get over fast and stay positive. Positive self talk...approach your treatments and rehab positive and believe and have faith that you will come back even stronger and better....you will be amazed at how fast you will recover. It's all in the state of mind...



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Do you have any pre-match secret ritual we should know about, because you sure look like you could eat a couple of opposition players when the whistle goes.

Serena: Actually, nothing at all….all I know is that I want to play to my best in the game and just keep my focus in it. But there is definitely one thing before I start…I will cough like I am going to die….if some of you know what I mean…Important thing, during the game, don't be so bothered with what is going to happen later after game…it is during every minute of the game that matters more than anything….



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Having been a pioneer blacks player starting from 0 to 7s to 15s with the club, would you say there was a turning point for Blacks or have we been steadily heading the right direction?

Serena: The turning point for the club…I feel it is the commitment from both Gene and Chongfu that have brought the girls this far when they started coming in to the women's side to help (this probably happened somewhere mid of 98)…with their commitment to the gals and that ultimately got the girls committed to the trainings and of course, being down for trainings had bonded the club closer and you know, it's the chain effect…as with all these factors…we trained hard together, going overseas for games and tournaments…..Our achievements were not overnight but definitely a lot of hard work and efforts put in…And I would say that we are steadily heading towards the direction that we have set out to do.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): There's an on going debate about who has the most powerful fart, (1) Ennie (2) Eunice and (3) yourself. Who would u say could eliminate the enemy with a single blast?

Serena: This definitely got to be ENNIE TOH…Eunice and me both got no fight with her…Even if we combined our weapon, Ennie's still the Lethal Weapon…



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Really? Because the long standing rumour is that your audible farts are actually fuelled jets that give you the power to make those line-breaking runs. Most of our girls are just dying to pry u open to see what maketh this woman.
So here's one of the questions that best summarizes what we got from the floor:

Serena: "It must have been helluva journey from when you started to where you are today - hard-running, mentally-strong, and a truly inspirational player. Through all the sweaty, muddy years of sheer hard work and aching muscles, the Serena we see today is a super-hero figure. What advice do you have for the less experienced players who are aspiring towards playing at national level (but not quite there yet), in terms of:

a) building mental strength (to keep going when you are absolutely buggered on the field);
Building mental strength, alot comes from within. The key is DETERMINATION, to work towards what you really want. Set your own personal goals in rugby, and work towards it. Break down your goals to smaller goals (process goals) so that you will eventually achieve what you have set yourself out to do. Give it a time frame. When you start seeing yourself growing through the goals that you have set, your mindset will be more positive and of course, it will enhance your mental strength.

On a personal level, when we used to go through those tough runs, it was crazy. But in my mind, as I was doing those runs, one thing I tell myself is that, I want to compete with myself. I want to break that personal benchmark that I have set. I don't bother with people running by my side, though at times, there will bound to be competition which is healthy. Other than that, I always put myself to the test and challenged myself to a higher level.

When things go tougher, tell yourself, it is a good thing. Take it as a positive challenge. Nothing is smooth sailing in whatever you do. I would say, nothing in life be it in any areas are will turn out the way you want. Sometimes, there are other external factors that are beyond our control. That's when you have to learn to over come the obstacles. You've got to believe in yourself and most importantly, that the obstacles which come our way is a good thing. Then you will learn how to handle it and to make you a stronger person physically and mentally.


b) how to stay positive when the going gets tough (e.g. not improving at a desired rate, injuries, etc...)?

One thing you have to start asking yourself, how long have you been doing it? Something must have gone wrong somewhere that improvement is slow. How about your recovery time? Do you rest properly and eat proper...these are also factors that will contribute to our performance. Our bodies get bored working on the same program over and over again. They need changes too....just like us...access your own training programs and ask yourself, what is the area that there is no improvement or not much improvement....then look at different ways to solve your problem. Know your strengths and weakness...maximize your strengths and build your weakness, turn your weakness into strength.

Approach your challenges positively, even if things don't go your way and when it gets tougher, don't think is something bad or negative. Things happen for a reason. Most importantly, self belief and work towards seeing it from a positive way. Success is not overnight but with hard work and efforts put in, you see the results.