The Alumni in the National Colors

Hello, hello! It's been awhile since we last login. As usual, we have good news to bring. What better news is there than having an alumni who got selected to put on National Colors in this sport dominated by men? We had an email interview a couple of months back, of 5 questions with our alumni, Azhmeera Shasha, who shared with us on her experience of being on the National Team and getting her first cap. Nurjannah was also selected but she wasn't available for our interview. Yes, it is a delayed post.

Shasha (bottom row, 2nd from left) and Nurjannah (bottom row, 1st from right),
in the starting 11 in a friendly in Bangkok for the Singapore Women's National Team earlier this year.
Photo: FAS

Congratulations on your selection for the Women National Team! What was your first reaction when you were informed of your selection?
Azhmeera Shasha: I was just curious of the upcoming plan as there wasnt any call up in a long time. Thus, together with my team mates from my former club, Jollilads Arsenal, we went to the meeting to listen to the plan that have been set.

Provide us a sneak peek of life as National Team squad player.
AS: As a national player, we train almost everyday. From building up our strength in the gym to fitness to tactical play in the field. We have friendly with the boys team and some international friendly.

You were in the starting 11 for the match against North Bangkok FC in the recent training trip to Thailand. Were you more nervous or excited to be in the starting line-up?
AS: The friendly in Thailand was just an exposure for us. There wasn't a confirmed alot of first 11 in the team yet. Everyone was doing their best to get a spot in the starting line-up. Being in the first 11, I wasn't really nervous as I've played with the Thai team before in the recent AUG (Asian University Games) team. I know their standard and I was prepared for it. So I was rather confident to give a good fight.

There are so many female players and young girls who harbor hopes to be selected for the National Team and aspire to represent their country. What advice/s do you have for these group of female players?
AS: Football is a beautiful game but sometimes people makes it ugly. As a player, not only we must build our skills but we must build our character as well.

Lastly, with the annual POL-ITE Football competition coming up, do you think your juniors at RP would be able to retain their title? Else, who do you think would be the Champions?
AS: I may not know what is the POL-ITE level of play now, as previously, when I  was a poly student, it was a tough competition with great players around. However, being a former RP player as well as the vice-Captain, there is no doubt that my ultimate support will always be with them. And that, we wish them all the best to give a good football show while retaining the title.

So that's all we have! Do check back our blog for some POL-ITE post next and Happy Thanksgiving!