At SJI International, we take immense pride in watching our student-athletes transition from our home fields to the international arena. Recently, three of our talented students – Alexis (Grade 12), Akane (Grade 11), and Gabriella (Grade 10) – did exactly that, representing Singapore at the U20 level through Touch Singapore.
Their journey from early morning training sessions to the demands of international competition exemplifies the resilience, balance, and excellence we strive to foster in all our athletes.
For these three athletes, the road to the national team started right here on our campus.
Akane first discovered her passion for the sport in Elementary School. "My coach at the time helped me develop a genuine love for the sport," she recalls. "Over the years, the friendships I’ve built and the people I’ve met have helped me stay motivated through the ups and downs."
Gabriella’s experience highlights the encouragement our faculty provides. "It all started in Grade 7 when my PE teacher encouraged me to try it," she explains. Finding out about her national selection while walking past the very field where she first played made the achievement even more meaningful. "It felt really special – like a full-circle moment."
Being chosen to wear the Singapore colours was a surreal milestone for all three. For Alexis, it was a validation of years of effort. "I felt proud that I could represent Singapore and that my hard work, passion, and dedication finally paid off," she says. "I got to prove to myself that through perseverance and diligence, success is truly possible."
Akane received the news while recovering from an injury, providing a vital boost to her recovery. "The opportunity to represent Singapore was so rewarding; it reminded me that I am able to achieve any of the goals I put my mind to."
Beyond individual skill, the trio credits their leadership roles at SJI International with teaching them the "intangibles" of the game. Gabriella, who has served as captain and vice-captain, notes: "Team chemistry is something that just can’t be taught, but it is arguably as important as gameplay. It shapes how you grow on the field and how you adapt under pressure."
Alexis also found immense fulfilment in her role as a 'middle' on the field. "I got to drive for the team, lead the team, and put my body on the line. This role allowed me to develop as a player."
When asked what sets our sporting community apart, the students pointed to the balance of opportunity and support. Alexis highlights the "supportive and positive environment" that encourages students to work as a team rather than as individuals.
For Akane, it is about the "endless opportunities to share every win, loss, and laugh," while Gabriella values the "connections and friendships you form with people from different grades."
To the next generation of SJI International athletes, Akane offers this encouragement:
"The work you put in will always pay off. Make full use of the people around you – your teammates and coaches. When you combine hard work with their guidance, you’ll grow not just as an athlete, but as a person. What you put into the sport will always come back to you in more ways than you expect."
We congratulate Alexis, Akane, and Gabriella on their incredible achievements and look forward to seeing them continue to lead with purpose and compete with pride.
Photo credits: Touch Singapore (TSG), Touch Football Australia (TFA), and NTU Touch Football