At Tanglin, we provide both the opportunities and the safe spaces for students to thrive academically and beyond the classroom through co-curricular activities. These students demonstrate just how much they can achieve when given the confidence and support to step forward. Read on to discover the Tanglin story of one of these students.
 

Scarlett C, Year 7 | Merlions, rugby, football

What’s your Tanglin story?
I was born in Hong Kong and went to Kellett, the British school on the island. I moved to Singapore when I was eight, joining Tanglin in Year 4. I didn’t know many people when I first joined, but I soon found a community of friends who share my passion for sport.

What motivates you to take on so many activities, and how do you manage your time?
I love team sports and most of my friends are playing alongside me. Being part of a team makes me feel like I’m part of a community and I love spending time with my teammates. In terms of time management, I’ll admit that it’s something I’m still working on. However, I’m learning to be more organised by preparing everything the night before early training sessions and making sure I complete my homework over the weekend. I also live close to the school, so that helps me stay on top of things!

Any challenges?
There have been many challenges throughout my time playing sport, but the one that I learned the most from happened in Year 6. I was playing netball for my club when I landed awkwardly on my ankle. At first, I thought it was just a rolled ankle, so after two weeks, I returned to playing sport. However, during a rugby tournament, I suddenly felt a sharp pain in my ankle. After visiting the school physio, I discovered it was a torn ligament. This was really disappointing news as I would be sidelined for another four weeks. I did my rehabilitation exercises every night before bed and after a month, I went back to play on it again, only to feel that same pain again. It kept happening but after lots of physio and dedication to my exercises at home, my ankle finally recovered, and I was back to playing sport two months later. Although it was frustrating not being able to compete, the experience taught me patience and the importance of proper recovery. On the bright side, I improved my card-playing skills, and I did get to use the lift at school!

How have teachers, coaches, or peers at Tanglin supported or influenced your journey?
I feel very lucky to have supportive friends at Tanglin. They are always there to pick me up when I’m feeling low. If I miss a shot on goal in football, they’ll encourage me to do better and I never feel like I’ve let anyone down. The most important thing when you play a team sport is your teammates. You can rely on them just as much as they can rely on you. I believe that without such a kind and supportive group of friends, I wouldn’t be as happy as I am now. I’m also grateful for the way I’m coached at Tanglin. The sports teachers constantly encourage us to try our best. Without their guidance, I wouldn’t be as involved in sport as I am now. They set they perfect example of how I hope to become when I’m older: kind, considerate, patient, and most importantly, respectful.

What’s your advice to students who want to get involved but feel overwhelmed?
My advice would be that no matter your skill level or experience, there is always a place for you on the team. Tanglin teachers are very welcoming and so are the players. Sport is also so beneficial for your overall wellbeing, and I always feel more energised after it, even in the heat!

Want to read more stories like these? Click here to explore them in The Voice 45.