Innebandy!Co Going For Gold

I am really blessed to be a part of Innebandy!Co. To look back at my floorball journey since 2003, I am thankful for friendships I have built and the experience I've gained as a player, a coach and a team manager. To be a good player is not that hard, its about how much you want it but to achieve the vision of Innebandy!Co, which is "to be an influencer and a role model", that is where I struggled. I really hope I have shown bits and pieces of what an influencer and a role model is as I close this chapter in my life. I guess this will be the last time me playing competitive floorball.

I managed to play the first two games of our league campaign. Knowing that I'm gonna step on court for the very last time was really emotional for me. I know I was gonna miss this feeling. The feeling of scoring goals, the celebration with teammates, feeling the supporter's cheer and feeling the adrenaline rush before each game. Balik Pulau Sports Complex was the first time we played competitive floorball, it all started with YouthWave. Can't believe that 10 years had passed just like that.

Inne has never started this strong before, we all know that FireBrands are one of the title contender for this year's PFL. But everyone in the team stood up, especially young Divesh Mohan. Just last year he was playing in Div 2, this year he is joining the big boys. He showed my what Insane Courage was, he went in for every ball despite being surrounded by physically bigger defenders but his courage was just too insane to handle. The way I look at him run, made me feel really really tired.

I too have to thank Timothy Kok for availing himself despite his hectic work schedule. For a person to drive from KL to PG just to contribute his blood and sweat to the team speaks a lot about his commitment to the club. And despite two years not holding a floorball stick, he made it look like he just missed training for 2 weeks. Amazing talent he has there.

Special thanks to an old friend and ex-teammate who willingly came back to help in times of difficulties. I want you to know, I am really really thankful for what you are doing and I know there is no way I can repay you for your willingness to step up and be in the club. I like to welcome back Jeremy Yeap, a legend himself. my first training mate and driver. =) Without him, I wouldn't be where I am today. Watching you play isn't a unfamiliar sight, but knowing you are playing in the same team as I am, it made me feel really touched. It's like all those all memories of us playing in Blazing Eagles just started pouring into my mind. The way you move the ball....speechless. The team is really grateful to have an asset like you. I really hope you will help the team retain our title. =)

To Nicholes Ong, a senior member of Inne. It's been a journey for you and I, since day 1. People always talk about your crazy goals against frontliners when Sam and I was away. Probably if we were away more often, you would have achieve your goal of being an All Star player. hehehe. On a serious note, I would like say thank you for being so committed, for giving your words of advice to the younger players and I am really glad to share the sweet victory moments with you. You are the one person who channels positive energy in all our training sessions, without you is like the rabbit without energizer. Keep chasing your goal of being an All Star player. You have more games ahead, I've none. =)

My goalie, Bryan Teoh, thank you for always looking up to me and asking me for advice. I guess you have learned well from the club and I can see you putting those philosophies into practice. It was a good start, blocking countless of shots from FireBrands and Frontliners were really mind blowing! You gave me the confidence that I can count on you, and I can forget about defending. =P But winning is not everything, so that pressure yourself too much that you can't enjoy the game. But really, you prove me wrong. Keep it up and I hope you be better than Lin Ken one day. hehehe.

 My coolest defender, Darien, did you know this crazy fella went to his sports day after our FireBrands game. Yet he got first in the 4 x 100meters relay. And after his race, he came back to Balik Pulau and played against Frontliners. Is that insane or what? I knew he was tired yet, he never really complained. He just gave his best. One of the most talented person I know and that can be dangerous if you don't have humility. Always always remember, there is always someone better than you, and that's ME! hahaha. I've also seen you grown from a noob to a pro. I really hope you keep up with your form, then we are one step closer to victory again.

Jason Chew no comment. You sucks!

Bryan Looi, respect. I don't think there is any talent in Penang or Malaysia which is even close to your level. You are in your own zone. Playing in Line 2 sucks because I don't have you to make scoring easier. You read people like ABCs, you score like 123. Sometimes I wonder where did you get all this talent from? Uncle James? I doubt so. hehehehe. Continue to be a role model for all the aspiring young floorballers. And despite being such a skillful level, I find you very humble and approachable by anyone. That is what I like and admire about you.

To my captain, David Kok, if I could, I would serve you till the end of the PFL. You make me wanna give my best to the team. Thank you for the note you wrote for me, that really showed me that I have done my job "well" and I know you will be a good captain and leader to the team. Continue to do what you are doing, you have the ideas in your head, just have to learn to put it into practice, but all this takes time. I know you are getting there. Remember when you said, putting yourself in our shoe's for a week or two is frustrating and  crazy. You are damn right! Coaching a bunch of people with different attitude and behavior is really no joke. But you will find it worth it when just one or two appreciates you for the things you did. Its the law of the dividend, you will only see the results later in the future. Thank you for your willingness to step up.

To my moley coach, Sam Teoh, we have come this far together and I would like to congratulate you for all the success you have brought to the club. I admire your heart to step a step further and not just be a coach to our players. Probably that is the one thing that I lack throughout this years in Inne. I admire the way you connect with the players and care for their well being. You have really good analytically skills and the result speaks for itself. You are more the the 'Special One', you are 'The One'. I know its never been easy to lead the club, as there are so many areas you have to handle, yet you do it without receiving a single penny. If there is no you in the club, I don't think all this success would be printed behind our CHAMPIONS t-shirt. Great job and well done!

To the rest, Kay Jyn, Benedict, Kon Joe, Ronnie, Eric Wong, Ephraim Teh, Rooban and Joshua, thank you for being part of Innebandy!Co's inner circle. Innebandy!Co is always about people, it starts with Inner Circle, then the rest. I don't wanna sound like a grandmother but everyone is important to the club so the vision, the 3ICs and the 7LOVs. I really with you guys all the best and I'll be waiting for guys to lift the cup again. =)

Thank you for being a BIG part of my life. Thank you for the memories and achievements that you guys have contributed. Go Innebandy!Co!

Penang Run 2013

I was riding my scooter to my friend's house and as I stopped at the junction near Farlim, a banner caught my attention. Not the 'Home + Care' of course... but the 'listen listen listen'. It has nothing to do with this overly repeated words but what was in the content below. It's a statement asking the organizers to stop Penang Run which will be held on the same day as Thaipusam. Besides this issue, this run was also featured on The Star cover page over a controversy issue on using the word 'Penang'. I may give my opinion on the above issues but I rather stick to real deal, the race. =)

The banner at Farlim

Zoom in

 This is my first run for the year 2013. I did asked a few friends to sign up this race with me and as usual I get disappointing replies. In fact, I do many races alone which is not a good thing because you may feel like pulling out on race day. This happened a few times to me before. =/ Since Jason missed his 10k at the PBIM last year. I asked him to try out the fun run which was only 4k. He agreed and voila, I have a friend with me for this race. Mine starts at 6am and his at 6.30am.

We collected our race bibs right after our Ipoh trip.

My Running bib

Jason stayed over at my apt the night before the race. I told him we have to leave my apt by 5.30am latest. I set my alarm at 4.50am. But we failed to stick to the plan. We left my place at 6am! The reason why we were late is not because I couldn't wake up but I didn't want to wake up. I actually woke up at 5am, I could feel the soreness on both my legs due to Innebandy!Co's physical training at Bukit Dumbar on Saturday morning. Besides adding 3 additional laps, we had 5 uphill sprints. My muscles couldn't recover in time. On top of that, I cycled and went hiking on Thursday. I was pushing my body to the edge.

I started procrastinating in my mind. I told myself to just sleep in and pretend my alarm died on me, since Jason is still asleep. I can blame him when he wakes up. Haha! I tried to sleep but I couldn't, my mind was already up and active. My mind is ready to race but my body is not. At 5.50am, I went over to my parent's room, woke Jason up and start scolding him and rushing him to get ready. There are times your body just don't feel like doing something, that is when your mind comes in and knock some sense into it. You just don't spent RM40 and missed the race. You get out there and start running you lazy bump!

I don't have the best preparation before race. I had no breakfast, no gels, no drinks, nothing. I just put on my shoes and go. Jason rode his bike and I directed him to USM. As we reached the stadium around 6.15am, I don't see anyone. I quickly hopped off his bike, ran to the track to activate the timing chip and started running on my own. It was really lonely when I hit the roads. It was dark without any wind and I never study the route earlier on, so I don't know what road I'll be running on.

10minutes later, I caught on to same of the runners. Not many but a handful of them. I caught them as I turn right into the road heading to INTI. It was hilly. I remembered doing a bike ride there before and it was hardcore but now I had to run up there. I was thirsty by then and it was only 15minutes into the run. I was really tempted to ask water from fellow runners but I just hanged on. Not long after, I reached a water station, I grabbed the whole bottle as I needed water. I needed it to not only quench my thirst but to wet my hair and make it look good. I had a wake up hair do, it's really bad. You can tell I just woke up by the look of it.

The hilly course

Continued picking up pace and I overtook one by one. In fact, I overtook runners till the end of the line which was always my ultimate goal. Based on my last 21k, I knew I had to be discipline with my pace and be consistent. When I see runners sprinting pass through me or overtaking me, I have the urge to follow them as I could pace them but I knew I won't have the legs to follow them till the end. But most of this runners will sprint and walk, so in no time I will be in front of them again. I ran and stayed strong. My breathing was calm and cool, that was a good sign as I did not struggled like my last run.

As I reached the last 5k mark, the race got harder. I started to struggle a little bit. When we passed Tesco, I could picture the route to USM. I knew there was one long slope because we used that road to get to USM that morning. As I approached the last hill, a lady ran beside me, we didn't say a word to one another but I was expecting us to finish strong together. Her pace was strong and consistent, that kinda gave me a last boost to finish it. We climbed together, and our speed maintained, but it wasn't for long till she fall off. I was alone again, I dug deep. I continue meditating. The chinese drums were banging and rolling at the peak of the climb. Alas, downhill and flats till the finishing line.

I was really glad that I did not stop running throughout the entire 17k. It was hilly and it was tough. Unofficial time of 1.46. I targeted 1.40 but I did not factor in the hills. So I guess it's a pretty good timing. One thing I have to add is, if it wasn't because of the physical training we did at Bukit Dumbar, I wouldn't have felt so strong at the climbs. I guess the investment paid off really well. I don't think I would wanna run the Penang Run again. That's my body talking but my mind is still the boss. hehehe.

Jason completing his first 4k

With his certificate of achivement

A 'kiam chai' cert

Yours truly, Jason, Eong Peow & Eong Yet

17K finisher's medal

A comment from a friend who ran that race

I was really glad to met the Lim's brothers. I've got to know this great guys from my club. They are currently playing for team Livestrong and I'm really happy to have committed players like them joining us. Eong Yet who finished the 17k gruesome run, yet still came for training, played his hearts out at out friendly against St.Paul and showed no sign of fatigue Respect! I know I'm not that young anymore. ><

Photo found from a blogger. Running towards the finishing line

Innebandy!Co (Team LiveStrong) 6 - 2 Cavalierz

Coming into the game with a defeat of 4-6 against Cavalierz in the first leg did not affect the team’s morale at all. The players in LiveStrong really live up to their name. None of the players showed they were intimidated by our opponents on court but insane courage. I like what Bryan Teoh post on his fb wall. He said, “Time to grow insane courage for this Saturday”. Well said, as that was what I wanted to see in the team since the beginning.

After our first win against Frontliners and a couple of changes in the team strategy/tactics, the team seems unbeatable at the moment. It is not because of their skills but because of their mental strength. They are so driven to win the rest of the matches till improving tremendously without realizing. They have rose from a 3 to a 7 in just 4games. All I can see is great potential in Team LiveStrong and without a doubt they will continue the legacy of Innebandy!Co and to be honest, Team LiveStrong is setting a great example for their senior players to follow.

Our strategy for the games was simple, I only mentioned two things to them.

#1. Play defensively and tight as a team.

#2. Don’t think yourself as just a muscle but a mountain.

Probably you won’t understand #2, you may ask the players in LiveStrong if you’re interested to know more. And it really works! For the first period, the team played a very solid defensive game, thus stopping our opponents from their taking shots at us. Imagine a 6 goal deficit to a 2 goal deficit, this I have to thank our goalies, Daniel Wong and Bryan Teoh for their exceptional performance especially Bryan. You really grew Insane Courage that Saturday. Not only that, we also have players like Radin, Ronnie Chand, Divesh Mohan, Winnie Giam and Sybrina Ng who put their names on the score board. Brilliant goals!

After the 2nd period, I knew we’re gonna win this game because the team’s confidence grew to the next level. Everyone played even harder and finish the game strong with a 6-2 victory. I even saw Pei Juen and Josephine laughing and smiling all the way when the team scores. I will make sure you girls get more game time in our next 2 matches. =) Another sweet victory and two more to go. Let’s ride this wave till the end together.

Team LiveStrong 2012

Team Elite and Team LiveSTRONG

We had a little team meeting last Sunday @ Bukit Dumbar. We shared our goals and vision for 2010 to our players. Introduced team Elite and LiveStrong of Innebandy!Co. It was really exciting as we drew the end picture of 2010. But it would be sweater if it turns out the way we want it to be. We did a few changes and I'm sure it's gonna give a positive impact to the players.

I briefly shared the Law of Victory from John Maxwell's 21 Laws of Leadership, with the intention to boost player's morale and to feed their mind with positive energy. I really hope the purpose was fulfilled and they understand what I said. Sam suggested every player to memorize the phrase below, which is think is a really good idea. There you go;

Leadership is responsible
Losing is unacceptable
Passion is unquenchable
Creativity is essential
Quitting is unthinkable
Commitment is unquestionable
Victory is inevitable

After talking and listening. It was time to run. Coach Sam made up run ten laps around Bukit Dumbar with a target time of 23 or 25 minutes.

I haven't been receiving encouragement or motivation when I train. Maybe it's because I train independently, so I don't get so much from others. But last Sunday, every time I ran pass James (who is the time keeper), he would say, "Good job Des/ doing well/ etc" I tell you, that really boosted me up. I was happy.

The run was a medium intensity level due to the slope and not forgetting the hot scorching sun burning through my skin. Do unto others what you want others to do unto you. If you want motivation, motivate others first. =p Appreciate the love and support!

Distance
3.5km
Time
19.00
Average speed
11.0km/h
Maximum speed
16.9km/h

[ima & hippo]

First Injury For 2010

Since Inne adopted Penang Free School (PFS), our training session extended from 2hours to 4hours. To be honest, it is taxing but after learning the 'Law of Dividend', I know all this sacrifices will pay off in the future with a HUGE return. =)

Last Sunday was my second training session with the PFS boys. So I taught them one thing they should apply in the game of Floorball, which is the 'shocking element'. You have to do the unexpected and it really happen! LOL.

I got wacked on my upper left eyelit by a stick and it was really shocking =p It happen so fast that I didn't have time to avoid it. I went down on my knees cause it hurt pretty badly and blood was just flowing down my face. Quickly went to the toilet and have a quick check. Damn! Deep cut and I saw my eye lit ripped apart (probably 1 - 2 cms) red flesh were seen as well. I thought stitches would be needed. =x

James got me to the hospital, mum came, doctor came, MALE NURSE came and treated my wound, etc. Gave me a few options. i.e to stitch, use super glue or do nth at all. Of course I chose the 3rd option.

It is really God that kept me safe. If it's just a few more cms below, my eyeball would be .......... don't even there to imagine what would happen.

[after cleaning]

[i don't understand why the MALE NURSE had to do this =p]

Sukpen IV 2009

"Penang Floorball Associatian has made history in Malaysia because of YOU!!"shouted Jason at the end of the two days Floorball tournament held at Shang Wu on the 4th and 5th Dec. It is the first time Floorball is ever featured in the Sukan Pulau Pinang (Sukpen) endorsed by the Majlis Sukan Malaysia Pulau Pinang. You guys really deserved a round of applause. *claps claps claps*

My special shoutout to the two schools who participated and their coaches, namely SMK Bukit Jambul and St.Xaviers. Some players had to sacrifice club duty for a higher duty, which is to represent their schools. Let continue to develop the school teams and one day we might have it on MSSPP! =)

When I first heard bout this tournament, I had an objective for my club, which is the win this tournament and put our name up there as the first ever champions for SUKPEN. That objective came through for the team and myself with a price of RM21.90. (Yup, that's how much Rooban and I paid the team) I guess sometimes a really motivation helps the team to perform better as they have a reward to look forward for.

The experience has been great, I got to make a few new friends and meet people from different clubs. We also had people who came to support us which is greatly appreciated by myself and the team.

Same ask me why do I play in this tournament. The reason is because I wanted/needed/have to leave a legacy behind for Innebandy!Co. I'm playing for the name in front of my jersey and not the name behind. I really hope I can help Innebandy!Co to be the biggest, most influential, most valuable, most sportsmanship and most successful club in the history of Malaysia. That is what the committee would like to see and we know we are getting there each week in and out. I'm happy to be part of it.

Winning this is definitely not because of my effort or participation but because each and everyone on the team rose up to the occasion and grab the moment and glory they deserved. Well done and congratulations!

[Team Innebandy!Co Champions of SUKPEN 2009]

Thank you for the All Star award, it's an honour. All glory goes to my Creator.

[swim + IC = 2 gold medals]

The End of Chapter PFL'09

My shout out goes to the committee of Penang Floorball Association, secretariats, officials, referees, coaches, managers, players and supporters for making PFL Div I a success! *BIG APPLAUSE* Everything went smoothly from the first match till the final one and it has been entertaining, heart pumping and adrenaline rising.

The only problem I faced is the time slot of the league, which was smack right in the midst of my peak period. And in this period I hardly train, run or do any physical training. All I did was tax comp.tax comp.and more tax comp. Its a torture, furthermore driving up to Balik Pulau through the jam adds up more frustration in me. *arrgggggg*

On the night of prize giving ceremony, I was annouced as the Center for the All Star Team. I am thankful for the recognition but I know I really underperformed in the league. But thanks again for picking me. Congratz to Byran of Contact Fireants, Termin and Germs of Ztec 8cers and our very own LinKen and Sam.

All Star Team 2009
L [Byran.Me.TerMin.Jeremy.LinKen.Sam] R

As I've mentioned that Innebandy!Co is the champions. Thank you parents, sister, supporters and players for making this a successful campaign for IC. See you on court! And get excited for our camp. =)

2nd Runner-up PFL2009

Team Innebandy!Co

Innebandy!Co The Champions

This year has been a good year for Innebandy!Co (IC). The PFL Div1 is my first tournament playing with IC after leaving to KL for 2years and you'll never understand how I feel when I put on my jersey. Pride and respect fills me when I put in on.

Before stepping on court, I would take a deep breath, close my eyes and say a lil' prayer, "Give me strength O Lord." I don't really have a game ritual besides listening to Stand Up For The Champions by Right Said Fred or 'rock' music before every game, even this. I don't do anymore. Going to Balik Pulau after working hours is just too rush for any ritual.haha.

It is true that our weakness is in our defense but I know that Rooban, Win Shern and Chester have improved tremendously from the first game till the last one. *applause* They may be the weaker 'chains' but trust me, they will rise up to be a strong, solid and stainless steel 'chains'.

Both our junior, Jason and Darien performed really well (for a first timer) and also manage to put their names on the point chart. I am really proud of them. First time scoring in a league like this really boost up their confidence and this encourages them to strive harder. Thanks to the supporters who cheered them on. *applause*

And to our ever faithful players Andrew, Valerie, Cui Lin, Ephraim and Joshua, a big THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. Even when we have a handful of players, you guys are always there and you have showed great courage on court during training and the league. Keep growing (in Him).*applause*

As for our seniors, you have set a standard for the younger ones to follow and sometimes its not easy when they ignore your ways. I feel you. Do give them time as they're still learning. I thank you for your endless dedication, sacrifice, sweat and time you've put in into IC. Without you, I don't think we can still be here after 7 years. 7years?!wow!!

I appreciate you Sam for being a good friend since we were 13, you have been my inspiration to be a better player/coach. *applause* Nicholes, you've been a great motivator to the players. You've showed what its like to fight with us without actually holding a stick.*applause* Lin Ken, thank you for your encouragement and for always telling me I'm still a good player. I guess sometimes I just need that. =) The man who guards our net and for showing what passion is.*applause*

At the end of our game against Dalat Eagles, one of their player walked up to us and told us how different we are from the other teams. They (Dalat) played hard against us and them (the other clubs) and the difference is, players of IC don't react or show any unsportmenslike conduct. We still keep our cool and play calmly. In addition to that, TerMin told me this, he said, "I wouldn't have to worry much when I'm refereeing IC's game". This is what makes us CHAMPIONS! It is an honour and privilege to fight side by side with every single one of you.

We will come back stronger, harder, faster, bigger, mightier, closer, tighter, tougher, insane-r and better next year!

Champions do not become champions when they win the event, but in the hours, weeks, months and years they spend preparing for it. The victorious performance itself is merely the demonstration of their championship character
T.Alan Armstong

Young Jason C

Every time I meet this young guy, he ALWAYS tell me the same thing. 'I wanna take slap shot, I wanna take slap shot.' I would ignore him at times, because I want to see whether he's serious about it. I would watch him from afar to see his determination in trying to perfect his slap shots. Sometimes it don't look like one, sometimes it does. And when he scores, he would smile for ear to ear. I'm amazed and proud of him.

He has a nick name in Innebandy!Co, we call him 'star player' with a bit of sarcasm but you won't simply give anyone such title if he/she cannot perform right? =)

Confession is good for the soul. If you like a person, just tell-lah. Keep in your heart so long for what? ops..wrong topic. Before you start your game/work/studies, don't confess 'die die die-lah' Or else you will surely die!

Like Jason C. always confessing 'I wanna take slap shot' and he did it (even though it's not a perfect one). So what is your 'slap shot' in life? Be it good results, promotion in your work place, becoming a rising star in the sports arena, etc. Take the negativity out of YOU!

sleepy & smiley Jason C