Whats next?

There are no news of whether who is our next opponent, where is it and when is it. But you guys better be on your toes because the organisers might give us yet another surprise again. Regardless of that, Im more worried about our trg due to the lack of field and some of our players will be going on IA.

So Im suggesting training on SAT morn at farrer park? Not sure if you all want, if possible, i will try to put it on weekdays if we can use the school field.

Also, our next takraw match is on the 13th Jan, against hall 2. So those involved pls watch out.

Last match's score:
Hall 7 (3)-(0) Hall 5
Goal Scorers: Cax(pen), Yao Liang, Kelvinder

Nike Interview with Hariss Harun!

Hariss is being featured in Nike's local campaign as Singapore takes on Iran in a crucial Asian Cup qualifier game tomorrow. Let's go watch together!!

Hi Hariss, thanks for taking the time out of your busy training schedule to speak to us. To start, what are your thoughts on the game against Iran on January 6?

It’s a crucial game; the group is wide open. All four teams have a very good chance of qualifying. With Iran being one of the best in Asia, it’s important for us to get a positive result.

What does Singapore need to bring against them?

We have to be tighter defensively. In terms of ball possession, we have to be more aggressive; we can’t afford to hold the ball and be too scared to play it. That’s what teams like Iran and Oman are doing – they’re not afraid to play and get more aggressive with the ball. We should

bring their game to them.

Is that why we lost to Oman?

We’re trying to sort out what happened, but I think there were some lapses in concentration and a bit of miscommunication and frustration during the game. Nobody likes to concede goals, especially ones that could have been avoided.

What else have we learnt from that loss?

The coach has told us that we should also be playing Oman’s game, with more movement, because when there’s more movement, there’re more options with what you can do with the ball and your team mates.

Have we benefited from the games with Oman?

Well, Iran’s style of playing is similar to Oman, so mentally we have a better idea of what to expect. It’s just more about how we’ll shape up physically and tactically.

What’s the sentiment of the team? Is it a do-or-die situation?

We have two more games, but the coming Iran game is our last one in Singapore, so we have to make the most of the home advantage. I really hope our supporters turn up in full force at Kallang. In terms of the game itself, you could call it do-or-die. Like the previous game against Thailand in Bangkok, our backs were against the wall but we were able to step up to the challenge. The results speak for themselves. We’re looking at the Iran game in a similar way.

How do you feel you performed against Oman?

I have to improve on my combination of passing and play with my team mates. I think some of us were in pre-season, coming off holidays, so we were still a little shaky. It’s not an excuse, but during mid-season, you have your momentum and match fitness built up already. It’s part and parcel of any footballer’s career, and it’s something we all have to work on.

Nike (RED) Campaign

We understand you’re also a

n ambassador for the Nike (RED) campaign. How can football help in spreading the message?

It’s a great idea using football, as it’s a sport that is very popular around the world. Personally, I’m glad to be involved in this campaign as it lets me give something back to the community. It also makes me realise that growing up in Singapore, I’m very fortunate compared to some of the suffering the children are going through in Africa with HIV/AIDS.

Are you already wearing the Nike (RED) laces?

The Iran game on January 6 will be the first AFC game where I’ll be wearing them, and who knows, the red laces might even give us some luck!

What do you hope to achieve as an ambassador?

If there’s one thing I’d like to say to the youths in Singapore, it’s to never take anything for granted. HIV/AIDS is not something to take lightly. As an ambassador, I want to tell people to be positive and honest with themselves. It’s important for them to be more responsible, and love and protect their bodies. We should also have an open mind, and to look past the stigma of people who have HIV/AIDS.

Have you managed to get your friends and family involved in this campaign as well?

I have relayed its message to them; they understand what’s going on, and are very supportive of what it’s about. My parents are happy and proud that I’m a part of something so thoughtful, and on such a global scale.

Apart from being an ambassador, you’re also one of the youngest captains to take to the field. Do you feel a lot of pressure from expectations?

Initially, there was, but I’ve learnt to live with it. One important lesson from watching professional footballers is to not let personal or external issues affect what happens on the field, because you have to be professional as it’s what you do for a living.

Personal

How old were you when you first got into the game?

I was about six. I think I was watching a game on TV at my grandma’s place with my father and uncle, and I found it really exciting and appealing. I started playing in the void deck with my neighbours after that, and I haven’t stopped since then.

When did you realise this was what you wanted to do as a career?

It was when I was selected for the school team in primary five or six. For that level, the training was hard, but I told myself that I had to make it, especially after watching National Team players like Indra and Alam Shah. I looked up to them and I wanted to be like them, playing for Singapore.

Was it a difficult journey?

I had a few disappointments in my youth, like when I tried out but wasn’t selected during the Singapore Sports School trials at 13. I didn’t let that affect me, and it helped that my parents were always encouraging and supporting me. It was easier to put it behind me with their support. They were even there during my training sessions in the youth team. That’s when I realised, “If my parents believe in me, then why shouldn’t I believe in myself?” What’s great was that I was called up for the NFA (National Football Academy) the following year. From then on, I’ve made it a point to step up to any challenge.

Other than your parents, who else have been your biggest inspirations?

Steven Gerrard. I’ve followed Liverpool closely for a long time, and ever since he became their captain, he’s been carrying the team well for many games. He’s consistently inspired them to many wins, and his drive really inspires me.

As a defensive midfielder, are there any other players you watch to try to emulate?

I’ve been looking at Xabi Alonso and Fabregas very closely. They’re very attack-minded players actually; it’s good because it’s two fields I get to develop.

Has your life changed after becoming a recognised athlete here?

I actually have a few people asking me for autographs. What’s funny was that in school, one of my lecturers’s actually approached me for one! It was really embarrassing, as it was in front of my whole class. He even took a picture with me!

Is it difficult balancing sports and school?

Lately, it’s been crazy. Being in poly, it’s not easy as you have many reports and projects coming at you fast, but you get used to it. I’ve been doing this since I was 14, so it’s not too different.

What advice do you have for young budding talents that are starting to develop their talents as well?

A lot of people will definitely feel and say that it’s almost impossible to balance such a schedule, but it all boils down to how well you take the pressure. Discipline and time management are the most important factors. You can still have fun, but you have to know where your priorities lie.

Do you manage to have a social life then?

My friends make fun of me all the time, saying I don’t have one (laughs). But I definitely take the time to be with my family, and also meet up with friends for meals. We mostly like to hang in Changi Village to grab a meal.

Do you play any other sports apart from football?

I’ve tried table tennis and badminton, and I’ve come to realise that I have no hope in table tennis (laughs). I’m okay in badminton. I’m still better with my feet than my hands.

What are your long-term goals in regards to your football career?

Most professional players stay in the game mostly till their early to mid-30s – unless you’re Aleksandar Đurić (laughs). I’m currently doing my Diploma in Sports & Wellness Management in Nanyang Polytechnic, and I hope to take up other courses along the way to enrich myself as well. It’d be a dream to play overseas, even before I started playing with the Young Lions. I’m looking to continue playing well, and hope for the opportunity to come along. It’d be great to play a top Asian league, and a bonus if it was in Europe.

How different do you think your life would be if you weren’t in football?

I’d probably be working in a fast-food outlet or a 7-11. At this age, if I wasn’t a footballer and earning what I’m earning, that’s what I’d most likely be doing part-time to contribute to my family. I’m very grateful to have this opportunity, and it feels great to be able to reduce my family’s financial burden.

Since it’s already 2010, what are your World Cup predictions?

I think it will be a close game between Spain, Brazil and England. A dream final for me would be Spain and Brazil though. It’ll be quite a spectacle as both countries are fantastic attackers.

Finally, have you made any New Year’s resolutions?

To qualify for the Asian Cup, because I think we have a strong chance. I hope that the Lions have a good year in 2010. Personally, I just want to work hard, study hard and be a better player.

First IHG match...finally

Date: 3rd Jan (Sunday)

Time: 8am BE THERE!

Things to bring: Checklist:(1)Red top, (2)Black Training top, (3)White Top (hall 7), (4)White shorts, (5)Black socks, (6)Boots, (7)Shin pads, (8)Matric Card, (9)Lucky charms

Sunday is the day our journey starts. All the efforts and time we have put in during trgs will show on Sunday. Thus, please do not let anything else affect you the day/night before.

I always believe that the first match is the most important of the competition as it will determine the tempo and attitude of the team for the rest of the matches. So i hope all of you will be mentally well prepared on sunday.

Like I said, I SERIOUSLY mean it when I say all players MUST sleep at 12am, maximum 1am in bed. If on sunday I see that anyone of you are not in the condition to play, you will not participate at all, myself included.

Another thing i want to add is that I can only register 18 players on that day, and given the squad number we have, some of you might not be registered. However, I will not reveal who is not registered and ALL will join in the warm up and follow the rest of the team til the end.

That leads me to the next point about playing time. I hope all of you will be matured enough to think, that whoever plays is being talked through with coach, and he decides who will be the most suitable to play. For some of you, you might only get to play 5 mins, or even not at all. I know to make you guys come back on a sunday morn without playing really sucks, but I really hope all of you will look at it with an open heart and put the team's interest at first priority.

Ok. Thats all for me. Rest well on Sat, and be prepared to fight on Sunday.

The journey will never be easy.

Nike Football+ coaching clinic

On 10^th December, Hall Seven Soccer was invited to an exclusive Nike Football+ coaching clinic at St. Patrick’s Secondary School. Over 80 boys were invited to this special event, in which they were given an exclusive insight into the training programme of the reigning UEFA Champions League winner, FC Barcelona. This event also allows the participants a chance to have a feel of the newly launched CTR360 Masestri boots.

Trying out the new CTR360 Maestri boots

The boys were given a digital preview of the training drills, which Andres Iniesta, Xavi (Barcelona) and Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal) had undergone while they were promising youngsters at the world famous youth academy of Barcelona. The Master Control training drills, which include signature moves of Iniesta and Fabregas, are demonstrated by the players themselves. The drills placed high emphasis on the mastery of the ball, comprising of control, technique and passing. As Barcelona head coach, Pep Guardiola had said in the video, “Control the ball, control the game”.

Coach Abdullah Noor guiding the boys through some of the drills

After watching the video, the boys were given a chance to practice the drills under the watchful guidance of the coaches, led by former Singapore international striker, Abdullah Noor. The drills culminated in the “Cesc Challenge”, whereby the participants had to complete a series of skill challenges, and a special prize was given to the fastest player who completed the challenge.

The “Cesc Challenge”

Wanting to have a trial of the CTR360 Maestri boots, yours truly was given a chance to compete with the youngsters. It was a close fight with me losing out to the eventual winner by a few seconds. The dampening pods on the outside of the forefoot provided a softer first touch when receiving the ball. Meanwhile, the instep utilised a harder material to provide a lighter more controlled take but quicker delivery, minimising time on the ball. In order to maximize comfort, a sock liner with an additional comfort layer sits within the boot, reducing stress on the foot and minimising friction.

Get Serious. Get To Work.

Dudes, if all of you dont realised, our first match will most probably be on next tuesday, and to make things worse, we haven had any friendly games since after exams.

So i need all of you to know that every training now is crucial. Take for example today's trg, where coach did some tactical training, but some of the players are not present. Thus, it is very hard to get eveyone familarised with the system and the tactics that we are going to play.

So, i urge all of you to try to make it for every single trainings so that you wont missed out on the tactical part of the game, and that everyone knows and understand how we should play as a team, knowing each others' part and roles during the game, which is a very important aspect of football.

Last of all, saw this video and want to share with you guys. Talent without hard work equals nothing. If even the professionals are training so hard, that does not exclude us too.

Nobody ever said its going to be easy.



Football is just a game. It’s really no big deal at all, as long as you have a bit of talent.
You don’t need to work, you won’t have to sweat. Right?
Of course not.
Check out Vincent Kompany and Moussa Dembélé getting down to business.

Se7en New Kit 09/10

Ok guys, our new jerseys are here! Those who would like to collect your jerseys pls sms me. I will be in hall for the rest of the week.

Samba to the max...This is crazy

Advice from the MAN...

So everyday when you wake up now, decide which side you want to be...:)

Looking into the "NEAR" future...

Ok guys, this is the proposed plan for the holidays after exams, so that all of you can have a rough idea of what is going to happen and also, for you guys to plan your timetable during DEC.

If possible, im looking at training TWICE a week. One training will be by coach, and another training on our own, mostly technique based. I think it will be useful to delicate one trg on improving our lousy techniques. Also, we will most likely be having more friendly games(maybe on sat or sun).

Training timings will most probably be morning or early afternoon(to be confirmed with coach again), so that for the rest of the day you all can go for other sports' trgs.

Lastly, for the time being, these are the things you all can do when you are 'free':

1. When you feel like taking a break from studying, go for a RUN. The 179 route is the best route to choose, covering almost 3km, with one shag upslope after Can A. If you are lucky, you can get to see pretty girls running, or even luckier, see me!

2. When your hands are itchy(for some reasons), DO NOT REACH UNDER YOUR PANTS! But try doing 3 X 30 reps of push up, with 1 min rest during each interval. It wont last you too long.

3. If you are hungry and feel like ordering MAC, STOP! Instead do 3 X 30 reps of sit-ups or crunches to get back your 8 packs(if you have in the first place).

These exercises do not produce instance results but at least it will help you to maintain what you have. And by just doing it ONCE wont help. For more suggestions, feel free to contribute.


So, if you dont wish to see your tummy coming out when you wear your new jersey, better buck up and maintain your fitness. Ok, STUDY HARD and GOOD LUCK to ME. Thats all folks!

KT

Se7en Soccer takeover 'complete'

Mr Malcom Chew, right, with Se7en Soccer new owner Kristian Thorbjornsen.

Se7en Soccer have reached an agreement with THORB, the apparel line specially designed and developed by Sport360,over the proposed sale of the club.

THORB reportedly completed the takeover late last night after holding discussions with former owner Malcom and the club have now confirmed an agreement has been reached.

The group have already set Tohari Paijan, the Se7en coach, the formidable task of retaining the IHG champion this season, adding that they want to attract the world's best footballers.

"Se7en can confirm that a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between THORB and Se7en Soccer," a club statement read.

THORB is expected to be represented on the new board by Kristian Thorbjornsen, and he has already set out the group's vision for the club. The statement also said that THORB had pledged to "solve all the club problems and clear any pending payments, and will comprehensively support the club by bringing the best football players in the world" to Se7en.

It is not known at this stage the exact size of the stake THORB have bought from Malcom, whose future at Se7en as owner has been uncertain following the court proceedings started against him in China, yet THORB say the former always-disappearing owner will remain at the club as honorary president with NO administrative responsibilities.

"A further statement will be released by the club in due course."

Since THORB have kindly agreed to partly sponsored our jerseys, lets not waste their money and effort, and win the IHG for them! Also, please help to advertise this brand to your friends, and those who have social team outside, you can always approach THORB for your jerseys.

This is their website: http://www.sports360.com.sg/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4&Itemid=5