Match Day (Quarters)

Date: 31st Jan (Sun)

Time: 6.30am be there

Venue: SRC Rugby field

Opponent: Hall 2 (red)

Things to bring:
(1) White Hall Se7en top
(2) White shorts
(3) Black Socks
(4) Shin pads
(5) Boots
(6) Training top
(7) Red top
(8) Matric Card
(9) Lucky Charm

We will be wearing WHITE TOP tmr, hall 2 will be wearing red. Like I said during trg just now, i expect all to sleep by 11pm tonight, so that you will be physically prepared to fight tmr.

Its the Quarters already, no more second chance. If you want to win, you got to fight for it.

Heres a video for you guys, watch it tonite before u slp...hope it helps.

THE EMIRATES TO TURN (RED) TO ‘LACE UP. SAVE LIVES’

THE EMIRATES TO TURN (RED) TO ‘LACE UP. SAVE LIVES'

Singapore (January 30^th, 2010)- The Emirates Stadium will turn (RED) this Sunday as Arsenal play host to Manchester United, in a game which sees both clubs show their support for the (NIKE) ^RED ‘Lace Up. Save Lives’ partnership that generates funds to help fight HIV/AIDS in Africa.

(RED) goal-nets – a first in the Barclays Premier League, will sit between the posts for the match and a giant (NIKE)^RED lace will be hung around the middle tier of the stadium to ‘tie the stadium together’.

Players from both clubs, including Cesc Fabregas, Andrei Arshavin, Theo Walcott, Wayne Rooney and Rio Ferdinand, will wear (NIKE)^RED laces in their boots during the game and both sides will run out onto the pitch wearing (NIKE)^RED track jackets to show their commitment to the partnership.

And fans too can show their support for the initiative by raising (NIKE)^RED ‘Lace Up. Save Lives’ cards as the players take to the pitch before kick-off, uniting both sets of supporters and the global TV audience to raise awareness of the partnership through the power of football.

(NIKE)^RED invites people to ‘Lace Up. Save Lives’ by purchasing a pair of (NIKE) ^RED laces. One hundred percent of its Nike’s profits from the sales of (NIKE)^RED laces goes to The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, which funds AIDS programs that provide medicine for those living with HIV, and football-based community initiatives that deliver education and understanding around HIV/AIDS prevention.

Speaking ahead of this weekend’s match Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said: “Arsenal Football Club understands the importance of the HIV/AIDS issue globally and with the world’s fans focusing on Africa in this World Cup year there is a great opportunity to make a real difference through the power of football in 2010. Arsenal Football Club is proud to support the (NIKE) ^RED ‘Lace Up. Save Lives’ partnership.”

On the (NIKE) ^RED partnership Arsenal’s Andrei Arshavin says: “If life gives you a little bit more than it does other people, then you must give something back. Football is the most popular sport in the world. It shows that everyone can help, regardless of where they are from.”

Leo Sandino-Taylor, Nike UK Head of PR & Communications said, “Nike has a proven history of elevating global causes through sport. With the continued support of our athletes and clubs such as Arsenal and Manchester United we can play a major role in amplifying this important issue.”

On 30^th November 2009 Didier Drogba (Chelsea), Joe Cole (Chelsea), Andrei Arshavin (Arsenal), Denilson (Arsenal), Marco Materazzi (Inter Milan), Lucas Neill (Everton), Clint Dempsey (Fulham) and Seol Ki-Hyeon (Fulham) joined U2 front man Bono at Niketown to announce the partnership between NIKE, Inc. and (RED).

(Nike)^RED laces are available to buy now at Nike Store locations, key retailers and www.nikefootball.com/RED at a cost of £4.00 per pair. Here in Singapore, the laces can be purchased at the Nike Flagship Store in Wisma Atria at SGD$7.00 per pair.

Sat trg, 30th Jan

Date: 30th Jan

Time: 9.30am

Venue: NTU SRC rugby field

Ok guys, cheerleading have led the way by winning the first GOLD, while the takraw boys are through to the final. Lets do the same for soccer. I know its hard to keep the motivation and interest for so long, but i really hope all of you will put in your best effort for this one last burst.

I want to see all of you coming for sat's trg. It will be a important one.

Words of Wisdom

NIKE COMBINES BOOT TECHNOLOGY WITH DIGITAL TRAINING PROGRAMME TO CREATE TOTAL GAME IMPROVEMENT PACKAGE

Interactive Training Drills and Expert Coaching From Juventus FC Combine with New Total 90 Laser III boots to Improve Accuracy and Power

Portland, Oregon, USA (December 10^th 2009) – NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE) today unveiled the next generation of its Total90 Laser boot - the Total90 Laser III - featuring a newly configured ‘Shot Shield’ strike zone (patent pending) designed for more power and accuracy. Purchasing the boots opens access to Nike Football+, a digital coaching program (available via web, mobile internet or iPhone application) to help players improve their skills with access, insights and instruction from top players and coaches.

Every pair of Total90 Laser III boots comes with a unique user-c

ode that allows online access to Nike Football+ featuring accuracy training drills and expert tuition provided by the coaching team at Italian giants Juventus FC. The Nike Football+ digital experience also features a detailed ‘signature move’ coaching session from Fernando Torres of Liverpool FC.

“I worked closely with the Nike design team on the Total90 Laser III, and it definitely provides another dimension to my game and a greater feel for more accuracy, power and swerve,” says Fernando Torres. “What I like about the Nike Football+ system is that now every player can improve their skills with tips from myself and insights from top coaches on the pitch or on the go.”

“We are creating the best performance boots available today”, comments Nike GM of Football Bert Hoyt. “But more than that, combining this technology with the Nike Football+ digital coaching program means you are not just buying a boot, you are buying a total game improvement package.”

During development of the aggressively styled electric green, red and black Total90 Laser III, Nike designers broke down the biomechanics of striking the ball into specific elements to help them gain even deeper understanding of the boot to ball relationship. Particular attention has been paid to the instep area and how players connect and put swerve on the ball.

The result is a newly created Shot Shield designed for a cleaner strike on the ball for increased power, ball swerve and accuracy.

Greater Precision at High Velocity:

Modular Instep – five pods on the boot create a uniform contact point that creates a smoother surface for even pressure distribution. The pods are configured as five separate units that operate as one to remain flexible and fluid when interacting with the foot.

Enhanced Accuracy:

Advanced shape-correcting memory foam – provides a smooth and more consistent surface to enhance accuracy when shooting. This unique foam adapts to the demands of the individual player.

Increased Friction, More Swerve:

Engineered Fins – raised TPU fins on the medial side of the boot deliver increased friction on ball contact to ensure more swerve when you need it most. Each fin is strategically angled and sized to enhance control over ball trajectory, but fold on contact with the ball to accommodate great touch and feel.

The Total90 Laser III is available in premium-grade Teijin synthetic leather, or premium leather for overall fit, comfort and performance.

The Total90 Laser III design team also repositioned the eyestay to a more asymmetrical position to allow a cleaner strike surface and easier fit and adjustment of the boot. Stability and comfort is enhanced with reinforcements to the external heel counter and outsole.

Nike Football+ digital coaching program can be accessed at www.nikefootball.com. The Nikefootball+ accuracy training package follows on from a control package launched in October 2009, and will be followed in 2010 by a speed coaching program related to the Nike Mercurial boot.

The Total90 Laser III boot is available at nikestore.com December 12^th and globally at retailers from January 7^th 2010.

Sat trg cancelled

Sat trg cancelled due to poor attendance. So dont waste coach's time coming down to train only a few of us. Thats all.

Se7en players go unpaid again as crisis escalates

THE IHG Association have confirmed Se7en failed to meet another deadline to pay their players but have been assured the funds will be provided by the end of the week.

The magnitude of the financial crisis at Se7en has been highlighted by players not being paid on the correct day three times this season. They were due to receive their December salaries.

"This is a serious situation that involves the school and the FA, as well as the concerns of supporters of the club and the players."

Players are reported to be paying from their own pocket for their coach's training fees and the fields that are played during IHG.

With the likes of KT, Cax, Peng and Boon the club's only valuable assets, Se7en could well have to sell players to pay tax bills and other creditors. The impossibility of signing anyone this month means Se7en potential transfer target, player no.10 of Hall 5, would not be able to complete his move to Se7en this season.


Malnutrition, low morale, will this affect their IHG performance?


Se7en Financial Department requests all players to play another $20 on thurs to fund the coach's training and future fields payments. Thank you.

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.