Story by Lim Yong Teck/Red Sports. Photos by Lim Yong Teck and Clara Yuan/Red Sports
Angeline Tan in action during the Community Games. Angeline is the team manager of Cheng San-Seletar CSC. (Photo 1 © Lim Yong Teck/Red Sports)
Anchorvale Community Centre, Sunday, March 16, 2014 — “We have known each other for more than six years. And of course, we have been playing (badminton) together for six years,” said 43 year-old Angeline Tan, who is a bridal makeup artist by day, on the sidelines of the 2014 Community Games.
Angeline is also the team manager for Chengsan-Seletar Community Sports Club (CSC). “Because of everyone in this team, I still can play in official competitions at my age. The feeling is good, as there are limited competitions available for our age group,” said Angeline.
The bubbly 43 year-old added, “I did not exercise a lot in the past. When I joined the team to play, everyone here showed me the importance of exercise – to stay young and healthy. This is the way I enjoy my life now, as it is more fulfilling.”
Angeline credits her active participation in the Community Games to her coach, Jerry, and Cheng San-Seletar CSC Chairman, Ms Alburqueque Karen Anne. “I want to thank coach Jerry and Karen for getting me to join the CSC games. Because of them, I have the chance to play competitions under the CSC.”
The Chengsan-Seletar badminton team trains together at Chengsan Community Club every Tuesday evening, and Ang Mo Kio-Yio Chu Kang Town Council every Friday and Sunday. After trainings, the team makes it a point to bond over food and drinks, to ensure that every member, regardless of age, is closely integrated into the team.
At age 63, fellow shuttler, Allan Teo, is the oldest player on the team. “It is interesting that there are games like these for us to interact, which also encourages active aging. It is good to play with the younger generation, as it is a different world now. Age is just a number. If you think you’re old and you behave like you’re old, then you’re old. Playing with the younger generation will help us understand and relate to them better. It enlightens me and broadens my thinking.”
The team also features fresh young blood in 17 year-old Clarabelle Koh, who plays for the Singapore Sports School. As the youngest player on the team, Clarabelle finds it a norm to be playing and competing with older players. “I always go out to compete and I enjoy playing with the older players,” commented Clarabelle.
Clarabelle added, “I admire their patience and passion for the game. I don’t think I can play badminton at the age of 63 (referring to Allan), and it is a very admirable thing.”
Do you have a sports hero in mind too? Do nominate him/her for the ‘Feature our Sports Hero Facebook Photo Contest’! You can participate by simply taking a picture of your favourite Sports Hero in your life and share with Community Sports Club how you were inspired by this individual. You may be the winner who walks away with a $300 Takashimaya Shopping Voucher. Contest will end on 4 April 2014.
Check out more details at Community Sports Club!
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