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
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