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!

2012 in 2013 words

I've been reading many summaries of a person's year 2012 through blogs and facebook wall, so I thought I should write one too. Let's see how did I fair in 2012. Overall, it was a good year for me with some changes. I'm gonna break it down here;

Job & Personal finance
I've left Crowe Horwarh in February and started working in a new old company at Butterworth. It's one of the last few remaining tin mining and smelting company in Malaysia. Getting this job wasn't in my career plan but God has His timing and purpose for granting me this job.

My last day at CW

Stock take at my new company

I started having CC debt since early 2011, don't really talk about it to others because it's really embarrassing to be in such a situation. It's not a big figure but it can never be zero-lized till 4th quarter of this year. With God's grace and discipline in my spending habits, I can now say, "It is finish". I understand the struggle one goes through when you're in debt. Crazy high interest rates and the temptation to spend what you don't have is really high. To make things worst, the bank sets high cap limit for a cc, that is the killer. I've learned to spend within my means and applied what my mum always tell me, "Wear a cap which suits the size of your head.".

I've achieved my personal target in my savings account. Don't ask how much. hehehe. P & C la. If I have not landed my  new job, it would be impossible to hit that amount. So it's really God's blessings upon my life.

God & Church
I've left youth for about 3 years now, I would be lying if I say I don't miss serving in Youth and mingling with the youth. I know I would enjoy being a mentor to this great young group of people. BUT...

I am still serving as a guitarist in Church, but now I play the bass and drums as and when needed. I feel the need to be a drummer. My bro really inspires. Young adult cell is picking up slowly and I consider myself a committed member la. hehe. I really hope we can have a regular meetings with committed bunch of young adults.

Walk with God and daily devotion is ... not good. Definitely the worst area in 2012. Have to pick up on this area. 

Family
Family is all good, grandmother is healthy, parents are in great shape, brother is happy, cousins are all over, one just got married and I have the privileged to emcee his wedding. Overall no death/birth in the family in 2012.

At Mansion 32

Parents went to Hong Kong which was good because they needed a vacation. They have been sacrifing for us all this while, so my bro and I co-sponsored their trip down. Then also went to Singapore early 2012. It would be great if I can sponsor them to Australia in 2013 then my "job" would be done since that is their dream vacation for now.

Relationship & Love
Did I make any new friends in 2012? Yes I did, most of them are through sports and I feel I can connect easily with them. Did I fall in love? hmmmm.

On a brighter note, Aaron started a group chat for the boys, Sam, Joshua Teh, Lin Ken, Rueben, Nicholes, Aaron and myself are in this chat. And I agree with Josh, this is one of the best thing ever, you will get an answer or a comment for anything you send in. The best thing about it is, it is FOC. One day, we talked about going to Singapore for a holiday, and it did turn to reality. Awesome buddies! We call ourselves, the 'bang bros' but now, we've changed it to, 'son of twelve'. Don't ask how we get that name.

Another group I am in, Awesome Three, is still doing well. We have A1, A2 and A3. Me being the youngest and greenest, is the A3 but this year I got a promotion. My rank is now A3**. They are my seniors with vast experience majoring in SYT and OL. Hanging out with them makes me realized a lot about parenting and how much it changes a person's life. Yet they can still have fun and be "young" when they are amongst friends. Really thank God for great friends and support group.

Awesome Three

Official promotion letter from A1

Others 
Most memorable moment for me was losing Orange and finding her back. On top of that, I have my own miniature Schnauzer which is not that miniature somehow. Being a "daddy" and spending most time at home with him really help me understand how parenting is like. I know this is just the tip of the iceberg of parenting but it helps. Sacrificing time, money and effort seems easier when  really love a person. Shadow brings out the love in me. ><

Missing Orange =(

Shadow and mum

Big boy now

I've finally subscribed to Astro after months of debating. I've been wanting to watch live matches of the BPL, Discovery channel, Animal planet, etc. Every time I'm back in my hotel room when I was auditing in Jakarta, there is definitely one interesting program (most of the time educational programs) screening and I would learn something from it. It kinda broaden my knowledge one way or another. I can now watch Tour de France!

watching Tour de France when I was in Jakarta

I shook our "beloved" deputy prime minister's hand and I almost got persecuted for posting this on my FB. This shows how "popular" he is among the rakyat. But how often a chance like this would come by? Just shake lo.

I read 3 books, completed 1. Damn it.

One and only completed book for the year ><

Sports & health
My knee is getting better. Don't feel that sharp pain as I use to feel. I can now do a full squat. I was surprise myself when I was able to do that. All thanks to Shadow. Because I have to keep cleaning his pee and poo, I got up and down till I forgot that I was 'cacat'. Besides that I have God to thank for His working miracles in my life. =)

Innebandy!Co made history with winning back to back titles and securing the champions title for both division. Something I would remember for the rest of my life because 2012 is a special year for many. We had one of the strongest team ever in Innebandy!Co and players were really committed.

Innebandy!Co Champions Div 1 & 2

We had our first every combined camp with Salibandy!Co, Gracebandy!Co and Tyttobandy!Co. Just before the year ended, Alvin introduced another new bandy!Co club, Tarcbandy!Co. It is really something when the vision you have is growing and progressing. A special thanks to all that made this possible!

Bandy!Co Combined Camp

I completed my first full marathon!

Standard Chartered 42k

I did my longest ride; 180km.

Ipoh Century ride 180k

Played paintball for the first time too. It was crazy! Heart rate was at the red zone all the way. Really good workout with lots of fun and excitement! Will do it again.

If I really think about it, I would never imagine doing all this after my knee surgery. Never in my mind. But all things are possible through God who strengthens me.

I did not upgrade my bike or anything. That is a great success. =)

Conclusion
Overall I would rate my 2012 at 8/10. Could be better but I have no regrets for the year. No major ones le, small wan sure have eh la. For this 2013, I hope to explore more new places, earn more PBs, cross out more things from my bucket list, be more advantageous, be more patient, learn something new, be a better son, brother, coach, friend, leader and bf.  If I can just be 50% of my dad, I would be a better man. 2013 bring it on!

New Court Shoe

Sports is an expensive hobby, well, not to all but to me. My last court shoe which was an Asics lasted almost 2 years, and now sudah koyak. But still can wear la. So it was time to hunt for a new pair of court shoe. I was thinking of getting another Asics because it is really comfortable and solid. But the design is a little less attractive. 

I now join my company's weekly futsal game and they advised me to change my shoe. I was a little surprise when I received a call from a colleague of mine, volunteering to fetch me to Al-Ikhsan to look for shoes.My company really have nice malay chaps. 

Lo and behold, this striking yellow Adidas Sala was calling out my name, I walked towards it, grabbed it, touched it, throw it up in the air and smelled it. Fuh... nice but it was really pricey! RM270 for that. Hell no! Next thing I know, I was out from the shop with the shoe in my hand and hole in my pocket. One of the main reason I bought this shoe was to match Innebandy!Co's next year jersey kit. I'm gonna be a bananaman.

In addition to that, I've upgraded my Floorball stick and my stick bag. I've spent at least RM800 just for Floorball. Other sports le? Also got new sports wear and equipment, but let's save it for another post. Too much negative sign here. 

Adidas Top Sala

Banana Shoe

On a brighter note, as long as you're happy with your purchase, it's worth it. =)

Merdeka Cup State Selections

Last Tuesday I was at Balik Pulau Sports Complex for a physical test. It's the minimum requirement for those who wants to be shortlisted for the Penang Floorball state team, as we will be playing against Selangor this coming 31st August 2012. It has been a while since I went up there for trainings, ever since senior players were no longer required.

Being around the younger players made me feel really senior. Talked to a few of them and they really put high expectations on me which can be good and vice versa. They expected me to complete the test like 'water'. I told them, my strength is more towards endurance and not boom boom pow stuff. =) Nonetheless, I've trained and prepared for this test. I did my own homework weeks prior to this.

I've completed 3 rounds on the list of workout announced to us. #2 Training philosophy of Innebandy!Co is Independent Culture, I didn't wanna go for the test unprepared and not knowing what to expect. I take this seriously because I want to be a part of the state team. On the other hand, Jason Chew failed the test at 8.0 and he was giving excuses from A - Z on why he couldn't meet the target. So I asked him, did you practice on your own? Did you train independently? Of course his answer was no. Sometimes I wonder, why people expect to receive (increments, bonus, promotion, good result, etc) when they don't give (hard work, dedication, homework, etc). This doesn't just apply in sports but in other aspect of life as well.

I told him, talent itself is not enough, you need to go further to enhance your talent or your gift. I am not the best floorballer or triathlete in the world but I know I am always putting effort to better than yesterday  but not as good as tomorrow. =)

Overall, the test was okay. The only tough parts were the beep test and bur-pees (if it is done correctly). I managed to beat the minimum mark of 8.5 and finished 9.9. Not really that impressive, but I'm happy with the result for now. There were unconfirmed rumors that some athletes have completed the whole 23 levels of the test, which is highly unlikely. They say, top elite endurance athletes would be expected to reach up to level 19. In another source I found said David Beckham reached level 16. Can you imagine David Beckham doing beep test? fuh!

Independent Culture leads to Success

We Are The Champions My Friends

And we'll keep on fighting till the end. That's just exactly what Team LiveStrong did. They fought till the very end and that made me a proud coach. Congratulations to team Elite under the guidance of head Coach Sam Teoh.

Last week was the finale of Penang Floorball League for Div 1 and 2. I am a happy manager, coach and player of Innebandy!Co as we clinched the champions title for both divisions. On top of that 4 players from Innebandy!Co were selected as All Star. Haiya...didn't take picture of that. sigh.

Below are some of the pictures we took that night.

Pei Yi, Darien and Jason

Jason and Bryan (All star forward)

Happy cute Daniel Wong

Head Coach Sam also All star defender

Jason and I

Ter Min (All star forward) and I

Me

On a personal note, it was a good league for me. I did not expect to contribute that much to my team. Like I said in my previous post, this year is a comeback year for me and I did achieve the target set. Again, I would like to thank God for still giving me the strength and courage to walk and run. All glory goes to Him.

Innebandy!Co (Team Elite & Team LiveStrong) 1 - 1 Contact/Firebrands

Our last match against Contact was the toughest for the me. I really gave everything I have that night but it wasn't good enough. I guess I wasn't playing smart enough, I was too eager to win the ball back every time we lose it. Coach Sam did ask me to slow down as I was being lured by our opponents to play their game. But the temptation to run after the ball was just too much for me to resist. I literally ran till my legs turn jelly, falling on the ground quite a few times. I was mainly fueled by my mental strength during our last period; reciting the 7LOV in my mind while sitting on the bench. It was intense and gruesome.

Both teams played really well, I guess our opponent was ready to take us down that night, their spirit was high so was their goalie, Benson. He was on form. Seriously good! Shots after shots were talking at him, but we just could not find the net. This is the only gave that gave me muscle ache the next day!

I'm happy that Division 1 is finally over and it was another successful campaign for Innebandy!Co, 6wins and a draw is enough to secure our position as champions again. Sam scored the only goal for the night and to be honest, he wasn't on my goal scorer list. However, that was a superb goal. =) He posted, "feels good to score the last goal of the league for the team.all glory goes to God who sustained me and covered me from all injuries! not gettin a 2mins in a season for the first time was the bonus" in his Facebook.

LiveStrong was held back 1 - 1 by Firebrands. It was an unexpected result. But it's okay, we will be back in full force to claim our victory next week. We just need a win and that would give us a high chance to top the table in Division 2. If that really happens, it's double the sweetness and joy for me.

Team Elite & Team LiveStrong 2012 picture courtesy of Sally Giam

I like what Joseph commented about this picture. He said, "everyone looks good :) innebendians :)" I totally agree with him, everyone is so awesomely good looking. =)

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

Innebandy!Co (Team LiveStrong) 4 - 1 Frontliners

First win by Team LiveStrong really means a lot to them, the club and me. They are the future of Team Elite (Sam also getting old d). The team did not start so well in the league but we were quite close in winning or getting a draw in the past two games. Having said that, I'm pretty confident that we will be able to pick up and end well in this year's league.

One thing I've learn from coaching Team LiveStrong is, girls can be better than guys. We have at least 1-2 girls on court every time we play, yet we managed to beat the all boys team. That really made the victory even sweater. That is what the team is about, LiveStrong is about knowing no fear, facing challenges courageously and getting out of it victoriously.

The team played the best floorball I've ever seen them play, good movement, good defense and team spirit was on (quoted Winnie Giam). I told them to be on hungry on court just as what Sam told us in our morning game and it really pays off. To win division 2 is not actually that hard or technical. It's how well the player master the basic skills and how well the co-operate with one another. I always remember my early days of floorball, I don't have the best technical skills compared to the rest, but I was hardworking and my basic skills were pretty good. That will help make you a better player.

I've made a deal with the team, if they secure 1st or 2nd placing in this league. I would buy them a LiveStrong wristband or anything worth RM10 and below. Hope that would motivate them. =)


The wristband not that cheap le, I bought mine from eBay wor. Youth size, so not 'leng leng', wear d cheapo adult size wan also boh stim. So come on boys and girls, this is your only chance to hurt my pocket. Haha.

Innebandy!Co (Team Elite) 6 - 3 Firebrands

I'm a bit lost in the development of floorball in Penang, after leaving the committee a few years back, I am totally disconnected from any floorball news, state development team, etc. Sometimes, when we're invited for state training, I don't see many familiar faces on court which is a good thing as the sport is growing and I also see a lot of potential players.

I've never seen Firebrands as a threat all this years, for me they are just an average club. Until two weeks back, when they surprise me with their result in their league games. Oh boy, I was a little shocked and impressed. How did they come to where they are today? Among the many clubs in Penang, I find Firebrands to be the club to learn from. I really admire the leadership and the people in the team. Even after losing their match against us, their spirits were still up high. Which is not an easy thing to do unless you play with the right spirit and attitude. There is just something different about them.

It was a tiring match for me, I just recovered from my hamstring injury and I didn't dare to push hard in the first period, fearing the pain and pull would come. It happen in our match against Frontliners. I heard a snap sound when I was sprinting for a counter attack. It was scary.

First period was tough as we were only ahead by a goal. They played a very discipline and tight defense, often trying to make a counter through the middle or by lobbing. But Darien, Rooban, Sam and Nicholes really stepped up in defending all those flying balls. 2nd period was 3-1 and 3rd period was 2 - 2. Our opponents made a few errors which cost them 2-3 goals deficit, they may lack of experience but not speed and determination. Stepping up and pressuring us in the 3rd period shows they have no fear but enough will power to give us a tough game. Good job to both teams!

picture courtesy of Issac Chew

I must say, everyone in team Elite stepped up and played really well, even though we let in 3 goals, we know we could do better. We've all learned to be hungry on court and to feed on our opponents so we could step out of the court feeling 'full'. I was really hungry because I had no breakfast and I really wanted to beat them.

picture courtesy of Issac Chew

You know you're body is no longer 17 when you wake up the next morning feeling sore. This is the kinda sore where you play for 2/3 of the time against tough opponents but I did not. Someone came up to be and said, you shouldn't feel tired at all cause you do tris. O.o It's different from triathlons. People have this misconception that I have super good stamina and speed because I do tris. It's totally different, Floorball is a maximum effort game while tri is a Zone 2 HR sport. Endurance is more of my strength now than boom boom running.

I'm pretty sure we will see more from Firebrands next season, my respect and salute to you.

My Dream Comeback

Of course not about blogging. haha. But about my achievements in sports and life. After my knee surgery in September 2010, I thought 2011 would be my 'comeback' year, as I was physically 'normal' enough to start training. But boy' it was a disappointing year. Why?

I was 3rd in the point chart for the PFL Div1, I wasn't selected as All Star due to crappy performance, I only did 1/3 of an OD triathlon, I 'hit the wall' during the round island ride for CFAL Edition 3, I was at 173 placing out of 500 riders in King Of the Mountain, I completed the PBIM half marathon in 2hours and the finisher's picture of me look like sh*t.

[KOM's Result]

[Official Pic, small and bad looking =P]

Life as an external auditor made training time even harder to find. You would be labelled lazy if you don't OT. It would affect your evaluation if you always leave office on time. And the longer you stay in the firm, more workload will start pouring in. I always wanted a healthy balance between work and life but I will never achieve this as long as I'm there.

Fortunately, my wish was granted. I got a new job (will talk about it in another post) and I really believe its God's blessings and provision upon my life. Hence, training is back in full swing yo.

First competition in 2012 is the annual PFL Div 1, as of to date things are looking pretty sweet to me. I've never stayed on top of the point chart ever since Ter Min-asanity begun. It will be hard for me to keep this position throughout the whole league but I'll try. =) Term congratulated me and said that if there is someone above him, he is glad that the person is me. I think he is just trying to be nice, pretty sure he will go out to claim his title. Anyhow, he is an inspiration to me and many floorballers out there.

[PFL Point chart as at 25th Feb 2012]

It's gonna be a tiring weekend for me as I have a game against the speedy Spearhead and an OD triathlon the following day in Lake Kenyir. Wish me courage in the swim, speed on the wheels and strength in my legs. =)

Team Elite for PFL DIV1 2011

I wrote something like this last year. Click here. I introduced every player in Team Elite for Div1 and conclude that, the team was the strongest ever for the club. I was right as we ended our campaign without a lost.

This year's PFL is even more special. It is more emotional for me as I treat this as my comeback. Just 5 months ago, I could barely walk with confidence and the first thing that came to my mind was, I need to be ready for my team when Div1 comes. Hence, the mental and physical struggle I had to go through to reach today. I've not gotten the green light from my doctor but....hahaha. If my teammates need me, I will be there for them. =) Alright, time to cut the crap.

This year's team elite for Innebandy!Co

[2010] He is one tough bull/Park Ji-Sung and real quick in taking rebound.

[2011] A more mature player this year, I think he is a threat to our opponents. Still as hardworking as usual. Shots are getting more consistent. An aggressive player with a soft heart. =) Seriously. If he adds a little creativity ("brains") into his game play. That would be awesome!

[2010] Rubine our solid rock in defense always making it hard for me to score during training. He has grown a lot! Way to go.
[2011] He has grown even more now. Serious shit. You're dope =) He is our backbone for line 2. He may look a little blur blur and stim stim, as if he's high on weed but look at him man. He is still solid. Put a little more weight and muscles, you would be like me. HAHAHAHA.

[2010] Our very own christiano ronaldo, Previn. hehehe. Has speed of lighting that will burn your a** if you don't watch out. Run baby run! I wanna be fast like you. =x
[2011] You're still so fast that I would book you if I am a policeman. This year you're not only fast. But you're fast and skillful. Definitely better than last year. This guy has better stick work and has been scoring at least a goal in our previous games. Keep up the good work. Good to have you back in the team.

[2010] The 2009 rising rookie, Darien may not catch the attention of the crowd this year but I tell you, he is one player who knows what creativity is, and that is essential. Keep it up.

[2011] No longer a rookie but an elite player with heavy responsibility on your shoulder. Our defender who plays with creativity. He is the guy the coach will rely on when things don't look quite right. (I just realized I wrote about creativity for him last year, it is proven. He is ^^)

[2010] Wild card, David Kok! This is the Messi in floorball. A genius on court with good killer instinct. With more games in his pocket, he would be unstoppable. ^^

[2011] I am right about this, look at this genius now. He is really unstoppable. He really live up to his name, slaying down any 'Goliath' that comes in his path. I'm really glad he came back to floorball and inne. Without him, line2 would be incomplete.

[2010] Bryan, my partner in crime. I wouldn't trade anyone to play on top with me. I'll always remember him as a cry baby in state training last time. But today, he is the one that will make others cry. I feel he is the better version of me. Good job!
[2011] Somehow the way he plays/control/shoot the ball is different from all of us. That is just so unique about his game play. He plays floorball gracefully with a super killer instinct. How about that? siao man. As I sitting on the bench penalty, I was amazed with him running up and down. It's just something he wouldn't do years back. Respect bieber looi. I mean respect respect =)

[2010] Mamaroyong Nicholes, we missed him in last year's PFL and it's great to have him on board this year. He is unpredictable and that makes him unstoppable. Sometimes we don't know what he is doing but that's the element of surprise for our opponent! =p

[2011] I think you gain some weight. Try to shed them off your butt man. ahahah. kidding kidding. Super senior player who is super committed. Sometimes you would see his 'just wake up look' in training. Have to sacrifice his nap you noe. Not easy. With his vast experience, he could contribute to line 2's success this season.

[2010] Captain Lin Ken...the best in his field. I guess he is one person who will determine whether we will get the Gold medal this year or otherwise. Always giving good feedback, ideas and tips. A really good loud motivator that will drive us throughout this campaign! The backbone of team Elite!

[2011] This year the most used words from his mouth, "Chill boys, chill boys X 1,000,000" If someone can record all his actions up on video. It would be the most entertaining thing to watch. Not in a funny le. He is just full of actions on court. A great captain who know the ins and outs of floorball thus making him super knowledgeable. He is like our lawyer you know. Team gets a foul, he would walk up straight to the ref (judge) to seek further explanation and etc. Super pro lo! hahaha.

[2010] He is the brains behind the club, without him I wouldn't feel as confident playing with a different strategy. Without him, is like curry mee without curry mee chili, plain and mild. An experience solid defender with killer instinct and most importantly, he play with brains.

[2011] I really need to thank him for his support and encouragement since my surgery. He went through it before, and he gave me good advice and counsel on how to recover and gain confidence in my legs again. 12 years of friendship, 8 years of floorballing together, all the hard work finally paid off. Let us continue to be hungry for more.

3 new additions for team elite's Div 1.

You may read about my comment on Pei Yi via innebandy's blog. Coming into Div 1 to play with the big boys would be a good experience for her. That would make her even tougher, and hoping to see more game time. Then we would see how this 'karate kid' struts her stuff on court.

Eric Wong. hmmmmmm. This player is really full of surprises one. Sometimes he exceeds your expectations, sometimes he don't. But he is still pretty fresh here so can't blame him for that. More games and experience, is all he need. And also pls pls remember open your mouth. Communication is really vital. For i.e after my B2, I open my mouth and shouted and Bryan, "BALL BALL I'M OPEN!!!" And it's a goal. So learn k? You really have great potential, could tell easily.

Leon. The youngest player to join elite div1 team. After only a few months of playing floorball, you had to suffer with us in our trainings. Such a great guy. I can tell you're a very humble person. Just remember the 'law of the bench'. I shared that mainly because of you. One day you'd be the starters. A bench player when placed correctly, will be more valuable than the starters. Just don't quit yet. Just like in life.

Here I end my long winded post. So again like last year. Can we finally lift the title after a drought of 3 consecutive years?

YES!

YES! YES!

YES! YES! YES!

Finally...

I've achieved my weekly target based on my STAR training program. It took me 4weeks to finally achieve it and the satisfaction is just yummy yummy yummy. I've learned a few things from it.

1. It's not easy to achieve those targeted heart rate for x time. Because we wouldn't know which zone we're training at and that makes it difficult.
2. You may be training hard but you may not be training effectively. Something to ponder on.
3. It is not that easy to improve your fitness level without a guide/coach.
4. I have to go through that kinda 'shit' every week if I really want to improve.
5. Your weights training/body pump does not contribute more than 5% of the THR because it's a different kind of training.
6. I need to train at least 4 times a week.
7. You can't cheat. =(

But I do not know how effective this STAR training program is and I'm gonna be the white mice experimenting it. You may ask how would I know whether my fitness level is improving? Well, there is this fitness test function that comes together with my Polar FT80.

The result of the Polar Fitness Test is called OwnIndex. It is a score that is comparable to VO2max (ml x min-1 x kg-1 ), a commonly used descriptor of aerobic/cardiovascular fitness. Your OwnIndex value rises as you get fitter. To follow your fitness progress, start by measuring your OwnIndex a couple of times during the first two weeks to get a baseline value. Thereafter, repeat the test approximately once a month. When I just started my VO2max is 62.

my result and the chart

So I will check my VO2max in a few weeks time. Fingers cross. So what do I get when I achieve my weekly target. This is really fun and encouraging. You get a trophy and it appears on your watch. This week's message was EXCELLENT. Haven't heard this for a very long time. Dang! It feels good and motivating.

=)

my watch before achieving target. just date and time

after reaching weekly target. date, time and a trophy

And you can't hide and take that trophy away from your display. So if people ask me for time, I can proudly show them my trophy on my wrist. Wah...damn champion. Hahaha. damn lansi me. Work until gila d. wohooooooooooooooooooooo.

My overall result from my polarpersonaltrainer. Never regret buying such a gadget, Viva Polar FT80. If you wanna improve, you gotta do something. That's what I call independent culture. I will be missing 3 weeks for Floorball training with Innebandy!Co's team elite. I guess this is the little I can do to prepare myself for the long awaited PFL division 1.

Stepping Down

I have been struggling over this matter a lot which is, should I resign as VP of PFA or shouldn’t I. This is my second time tendering my resignation and out of the two, James spoke to me and told me about his thoughts twice. I changed my mind the first time but not too sure bout this time. I am really thankful for him being in Innebandy!Co and in my life.

I’ve learned a lot about Floorball and leadership from Mr/Ps/Entrepreneur/Manager/Coach/President Edward Lim. It is under his mentor and guidance, I am where I am today. I can’t deny that fact. I will always remember this quote from him, ‘Nothing is more important than leadership’. Sometimes I question it, why leadership? Aren’t there many more important things than leadership? That is for you to find out. =p

I first met ed or knew about him when I first started playing floorball in 2003. I will always remember my first training session with him together with the first batch of players. Most of us were using the ‘radical’ club stick. I remembered this guy, Cornelius who owns a Karhu Hand of Doom. At that time, I wanted that stick because that’s the only high end stick I’ve ever seen. The blade, the design, the shaft makes it really desirable (back then). =) Training was always FUN even though I was still a newbie. It should be that way.

I remembered one of our session at Unleash Sport’s Camp, the topic was about who do you look up to as a leader and why? In my group itself, 90% answered Edward. I’m pretty sure his name was also mentioned in other groups. That is because his strength speaks through his actions and he is a big influence to many. If it’s not because of him, Floorball won’t be at where it is today. He is very focus and driven in achieving his vision while building leaders to run the same vision as he does. I admire his detailed observation, being able to be one step ahead of others and his ‘loudness’ which drives everyone forward. That is what I want to be and have. That’s why I admire and labeled him my mentor back in 2007. He is a very good coach, whether it’s floorball, swimming, Frisbee, captain ball, etc, he would be able to unleash your potential within you.

For all the guidance and lessons I’ve learned. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. These are all priceless lessons which I will never forget from this journey of life. If it’s not because of Yean May and him, I will always be a follower and a damn good one. =) So I wanna thank them again for trusting me and mentoring me back in those days. He also said, ‘Once a leader, always a leader’. I will continue to build what I have been building on together with my inner circle. Now I ride ‘alone’.

p/s I have decided to quit because I don’t feel like I’m growing and contributing to the team. I rather quit and not be the rotten apple. I do feel heavy hearted stepping down but I do believe in the positive of change.

I Have Arthritis

I was in the car with my dad, we just dropped mum off at Guardian to get new dressing for my knee. Dad knew I was down and disturbed even though it has been 2 weeks after my surgery. He told me this, "Trials and testings come from God, temptation comes from the devil. What you're going through is from God". This really strucked me hard because if this is from God, it must be God's will to achieve something bigger in my life.

I have people coming in and out telling me that this is a wake up call, a reminder, a caution, etc from God. How true is this to me? I would say, they are damn right about this. No matter how much I try to run and deny that He is real, I could not because I would somehow be reminded by my parents, pastors during the sermon, friends and a still small voice in me that God really loves me and I can never run away from Him. I felt like I was Jonah.

My dad then encourage me with James 1:2-8

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.

I remember using this verse to encourage my fellow Innebandiens during our hardcore physical training I used to conduct. I told them consider this as pure joy when you're suffering physically because you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. How can I know be reminded of something I've shared. I really wanna thank my dad for this reminder.

For the past week, I have been very down and negative about the whole incident. I worry a lot, not knowing what my sports life would be in the future. Will I still be able to come back into competitive sports and finish my first full marathon? It scares me knowing this is a long term disease. Who would expect me to fall into this category? I am only 24 and I have so much I wanna achive and do. No one would expect me to get arthritis. It happen so sudden and even the doctors can't explain.

But I've came to a realization that we aren't immortal and iron as we think we are. God gives and He takes as well. Not easy to be in my situation but I believe this happen for a bigger cause and purpose. =) Just continue to support me by praying for wisdom and strength.

Dad: Be patient, total healing takes time.
Me: I can't seem to stay positive 24/7 =/ feel weak mentally
Dad: Your handicap affect your mind, so use your mind to affect your handicap.
Me: chim...okay will try. thanks dad

That's my dad ^^

Meeting The Spartans IV

Tomorrow's game will probably be the most anticipated match out of the 5 matches in PFL Div1 for me. You might be wondering why this game and not the one against Ztec Phoenix on the 10 Aug 2010. I'll tell you why... one thing about me is... sometimes I cannot tahan the critics/comment/prediction/etc from third party. For this case is BBF le. No offence...I enjoy reading their post but I like proving people wrong. I like it when the outcome is the total opposite of the forecast.

But BBF's prediction is pretty accurate.

The below is the extraction from BBF's Team Preview 2009.

Jose:
Innebandy!Co to finish 3rd out of the 6 teams.

Bendy:
Innebandy has a proud history backed with medals from tournaments all over. 3rd should be reasonable, snatching 2nd is also possible but watch your back, cuz your will never know who might stab you from behind...

This Jose and Bendy is like Paul the Octopus and I bet one of them look like Paul as well. lol. Just kidding. =p But they were right. We came out 3rd last year. Sipek chun (very accurate).

Read on.

Innebandy has never beaten Frontliners before.
And so the end of a gruesome fight between the both, the curse stood unshaken, unbreakable.
Borak Borak Floorball post dated 9 July 2009

Head to Head History against Frontliners

PFL - 2008
Innebandy!Co 3-5 Frontliners
Lost

PFL - 2009
Innebandy!Co 2-3 Frontliners
Lost

SUKPEN - 2009
Innebandy!Co 2-2 Frontliners

Draw

PFL - 2010
Innebandy!Co 5 - 0 Frontliners
Win

[updated on 27/7/2010]

So can you see why this is the most anticipated match for me? To break the 'curse' if there is such a thing. =)

Team Elite for PFL DIV1 2010

Let me try to do an introduction for Innebandy!Co's team elite 2010/11. We've come a loooooooooooooooooooong way, especially for those senior/pioneer players who started with Blazing Eagles. We've struggle through our journey to reach 'today'.

We had difficulties with club growth, regular/committed players with the club, you name it we got it. I have a friend who told me, Innebandy!Co is like a baby to me. Those who have been with us since Day1 would understand the struggle and pain we've went through together. I guess that's how babies grow in a child, a youth then a real man that will withstand any challenges.

The era of Innebandy!Co relying on a few key players has come to an end! It is over and I am glad for this =) The world knows it, so do you. Our young players have grown a lot, mentally and physically. They have been 'tattooed' with the culture, training philosophies, law of victory, never give up attitude and determination during training. Even in borak-borak floorball, they said our forwards are more fledged. I really agree with this.

Sam and I talk a lot about our club when we drive back from BP. He said one of our goals this year was club growth (in terms of number of players ) and was a little disappointed because we didn't really achieve it. In a way it is pretty true, but we are growing gradually this year with the addition of Team Livestrong, adoption of schools (MGS and PFS), etc. I told him we are on the right track. With committed players in team Elite and Livestrong, they will bring in players of the same kind. And we will grow! Just like the law of Dividends. It just takes time...

This year's team is special because this is the strongest squad ever for the club. (in my opinion) Why do I say that.

Look at Chester, that cool and super calm cameraman is now hungry for goals. He can even make solo runs up and score! That is what I call entertainment.

My first game against Contact, playing forward with Jason makes me realize he is one tough bull/Park Ji-Sung and real quick in taking rebound. He KS one of the goals. =( but good for the team. =)

Rubine our solid rock in defense always making it hard for me to score during training. He has grown a lot! Way to go.

Our very own christiano ronaldo, Previn. hehehe. Has speed of lighting that will burn your a** if you don't watch out. Run baby run! I wanna be fast like you. =x

The 2009 rising rookie, Darien may not catch the attention of the crowd this year but I tell you, he is one player who knows what creativity is, and that is essential. Keep it up.

2010 Wild card, David Kok! This is the Messi in floorball. A genius on court with good killer instinct. With more games in his pocket, he would be unstoppable. ^^

The faithful Salibandien who transferred to Innebandy a few years back, Andrew has grown a lot as well. You will see his name on the score chart this year. I still remember the days of him training/playing on Tarc's tennis court. =p

The hardworking and determine Joshua, never fail to display insane courage every time he steps in court. As time passes by, he will be a greater threat to our opponents. Does the unexpected occasionally. =)

Bryan, my partner in crime. I wouldn't trade anyone to play on top with me. I'll always remember him as a cry baby in state training last time. But today, he is the one that will make others cry. I feel he is the better version of me. Good job!

My favourite ex-captain E, Ephraim is one fella that grown the most. THE MOST! I find him a really valuable asset because he is more than a player. He is a leader in the club even if he doesn't have any leadership role. He plays good floorball, tricky and will always be a threat to our opponents.

Mamaroyong Nicholes, we missed him in last year's PFL and it's great to have him on board this year. He is unpredictable and that makes him unstoppable. Sometimes we don't know what he is doing but that's the element of surprise for our opponent! =p

Captain Lin Ken...the best in his field. I guess he is one person who will determine whether we will get the Gold medal this year or otherwise. Always giving good feedback, ideas and tips. A really good loud motivator that will drive us throughout this campaign! The backbone of team Elite!

And finally...Sam...the useless defender that let in the only goal against Contact in the 19.59 minute. Lousy! hahaha! Just joking la, we still love you for that deficit. ^^ He is the brains behind the club, without him I wouldn't feel as confident playing with a different strategy. Without him, is like curry mee without curry mee chili, plain and mild. An experience solid defender with killer instinct and most importantly, he play with brains.

With this kinda teammates. Don't you think its the best we've ever gotten? They asked, Can they finally lift the title after a drought of 2 consecutive years?
My answer is...

YES!

YES! YES!

YES! YES! YES!

Team Elite 2010/11 going for GOLD

Tough Training

Brought Ima together with me for my state physical training. She was really happy to be on the road again, with some rain, she played like a little child. Happy and cheerful. =) I always feel proud bringing her out. I feel like a proud 'dad' cum owner. Feels good when we go fast together!

I estimated to reach Metro Park within 30minutes, but because of the rain and a break from riding. I took 5 minutes extra to reach my destination. I was partially wet and smelly when I got there. =x Saw Coach Ed and the team assembled at the foyer. I would like to call that, the Fellowship of the Physical Training.

Started with 50-100 star jumps as warm up > lunges > push ups > crunches > bridge > rojak of everything. As for me, the hardest is the push ups. I could feel my hold body trembling when we did the last 10 slow push ups. Further to that, I had teammates that were making funny noises which adds on to the work out. It became harder because laughing requires energy and it got me distracted. But it was fun time. =P

The thing that I like about yesterday's training was, I could feel pain and all without any fancy equipment. You can do a hardcore workout at home if you're discipline enough. That's independent culture. With me quitting my gym membership, I have to be more discipline to train at home. Let's see how it goes.

Journey back was suffering!

[18K + PT + 17K]

Passion Uh La La

There's a huge difference in mindset when you train with passion versus merely pushing yourself to attain a goal. With passion, it sets up a neurological response that gives you pure motivation, it takes out the grind of daily training sessions. Don't we all hate the physical training at Bukit Dumbar, Metropolitan Park or the gym? It simply means, we are not passionate about getting strong, hard, fast, etc physically and mentally.

3rd LOV tells us that, passion should be unquenchable. Who does it mean by unquenchable? I like the definition from this online dictionary;

'Impossible to suppress or destroy'

But is it possible to say its impossible for passion do die down or get destroyed? Based on my life experience, passion can be suppress or destroy, usually by people you're close with and people you trust. I call them the 'destroyer'. People like them only look at problems and not opportunity or potential a person have. =(

The good news it, passion can be revived and renewed. I remember during my college days, the FES chairman(lady) told us, passion is like a bubble. Sometimes people (the destroyer) pops it intentionally (for whatever selfish reasons) but we can inflate it back again by trusting yourself, listening to your heart and relying on God.

I admit I've lost my passion for a couple of things in life. =( I know I am different. As I read blogs, FB wall posts and comments of floorballers around Penang. I am driven and shaken up by their passion for the sport. I am listening and watching you guys. =) You may not know me but I recognize this people. For that I salute you and wish you all the best.

Keep the passion burning!