The Water Family - A blog on swimming lessons!

Happy 25th Birthday! =)

Woah.. I'm already 25 as of today.. Time really flies... As I was watching my kids swim, it feels as thought I was just like them a few years ago. Lolx..

Remember my post earlier on my 2 teachers? I never got the chance to express my gratitude to them and tell them how grateful I am to them. Along my journey thru this quarter of a century, there were lots of teachers that appear on my path and without this teachers, I might not be who I am today.

I thank all these teachers who have once came into my life. The list will go on and on and on. But without Miss Tong and Jack Lee, I would never have know what's a good teacher like and how to handle difficult students. =)

So, on this special day, I would really like to thank my 2 special teachers who have made my life so special.

Miss Mary Tong

I came from a neighbourhood school called Peixin Primary School (Now, its called Yishun Pri). I had 6 great years of memories in that school but the best memories must have been in 1995 and 1996 when I got into the 2nd best class of the whole cohort.

And that's where I met Miss Mary Tong( Now known as Mrs Chen) =p for the 1st time. Memories of her is full of love and gratitude. She's the 1st teacher in my life that really "walks into the heart of the student". Thought she's always so fierce with the whole class, we would still bully her by calling her "giraffe". =p

From her, I learnt that teaching takes passion and commitment. My English was never good since Pri 1. Right up till Pri 5, never have I had a teacher asking me to stay back so she could revise my English spelling with me. She's the 1st one.

I remember staying back in school once with her and a few other friends till 5pm in school just to finish up on 8 spelling words. =D Nobody likes to stay back after class. Therefore, during that time, I was really angry and annoyed. "Why must I stay back when my friends are out there playing soccer?" I would ask..

During that time, my whole class(boys & a few girls) were so crazy over void deck soccer. We would play almost everyday after school even till the eve of our PSLE, till the residents complaint, police come catching us and sending a complaint to the school.

That was how naughty we were. Scoldings were inevitable from Miss Tong and that was the 1st time I saw her drop tears. I guess, we were really naughty students. And that's how I learn how to dealt with kids who misbehave in my class today.

She's the Teacher that believes in teaching thru an iron rod and yet at the same time giving the kids a positive rewards. When we scored well in our PSLE, she treated us to Swensen! =)

She might not be remembering these events, but as a student, what a teacher once said to you and do to you, You will remember it for life. She also gave each of us a quote before our PSLE which I will carry it for the rest of my life.

For mine, it was "If there's a will, there's a way."

Jack Lee

The 2nd teacher I wanna thank is my swimming coach. Jack Lee. Mummy wanted me to learn swimming because I was overweight at that time. So, I was forced to go swimming and learn taekwondo.

To be very honest, I didnt liked swimming in the beginning. Reason was simple, I was always swimming the last in class and that does not help when you have a really fierce coach who you will be so afraid of. But as I trained harder and grew up, I began to realised that he's really trying to bring out the potential in me. And I began to see him as a fatherly figure.

And he saw the very fact that I have a potential in Breaststroke and he trained me to be a breast stroker. And when I showed potential in my Back Stroke, He trained me into an Individual medley swimmer.

Without him, I would never be able to swim such nice strokes.
Without him, I would never be able to win a silver in breaststroke competition.
Without him, I would never be able to know what it's like to have high expectations of your students.
Without him, I would never be able to know what's the difference between a good coach and a bad coach.
Without him, I would never become who I am today.

Jack Lee, my mum call him Ah Lee, my friends call him Uncle Jack, I call him 教练. Till today, whenever I see him in the pool, I still call him 教练. For the very reason, I respect this man alot. He still cares alot about me I know.

Not only does he sets high standard for me, he also set high standards for my students too. If he saw my kids not doing the stroke correctly, he will tell me. But if the child is doing a great breaststroke kid, he will praise me too! =)

Till date, I still think he's the best swimming coach anyone can ask for. And I'm so lucky to have him.

I guess that's what they call, “一日为师，终身为父" (Even if someone is your teacher for only a day, you should regard him like your father for the rest of your life.)

On this special day, I want to thank my 2 teachers for teaching me how to be a teacher, sharing their experiences with me whenever I asked them on teaching and last but not least for transforming a simple neighbourhood boy into such a lovely, adorable and cute Teacher Jerry. =D

What Makes A Good Teacher?

I was blog surfing when I came across one of my NIE friends blog. In it, she asked. What makes a good teacher?

First and foremost, I want to think that I'm a good teacher. I might not be the best teacher u have ever met, but at least I'm trying to be. =)

To me,
A good teacher is someone who not only teaches, he shares his life experiences.
A good teacher is not a scary and unapproachable person, he's always there waiting for u.
A good teacher never gives up on you no matter how hard it takes to teach you.
A good teacher goes that extra mile that no one else wants to go thru.
A good teacher places his students on the top of his priority lists.
A good teacher protects his students as thought they are like his own children.
A good teacher never grumbles nor complaints.
A good teacher is a cheerleader. He motivates you.
A good teacher is an astronomer. He notices the minor changes in your performance and emotions.
A good teacher is a keen observer. He's able to pick up the minor details of a mistake and corrects it.
A good teacher is a forgiver. He forgives and forgets.
A good teacher is a joker. He cracks silly jokes and turn himself into a clown so that you can have a good laugh and lifts up your spirit.
A good teacher is a leader. He leads the whole class towards a great goal.
A good teacher has his doors ever open for you should you have need help.
A good teacher is like a parrot. He keeps on repeating and repeating and repeating and repeating till you understand.
A good teacher will be the happiest person you will ever come across when you perform your best and break thru that barrier of yours.
A good teacher will be the saddest person when you gave up while he's still fighting on.
A good teacher will cry with you and yet at the same time, laugh together with you.
A good teacher is someone you will remember for life.
A good teacher is more than a friend. He's a fatherly/ motherly figure.
A good teacher brings out your best potential in you.
A good teacher devotes all his time to you and keep on researching in his field.
A good teacher simplifies the most difficult things into things that seems so easy to you.
A good teacher has gone thru failures before, so he could tell you where the pitfalls are.
A good teacher is a role model because he knows, what he does or say, you will learn.
A good teacher is a good planner. He plans your route as far as he can possibly see.
A good teacher is a great story teller. He tells you the world's most fascinating, exciting and motivating stories you've never heard b4 and you wished he could just stayed on a little longer.
A good teacher is someone whom you'll missed. Not just his image, but his voice and his smile.
A good teacher is a copy of more great teachers! He's been taught by some of the world's best teachers.

And last but not least,

A good teacher remains a good teacher always in your heart.

After reading these 30 sentences, do you miss any of your teachers? I do. I miss my 2 teachers. Miss Tong and Jack Lee... =)

The boy and the Starfish

A man was walking along a deserted beach in the early morning.

As he walked he could see a young boy in the distance, as he drew nearer he noticed that the boy kept bending down, picking something up and throwing it into the water.

Time and again he kept hurling things into the ocean.

As the man approached even closer, he was able to see that the boy was picking up starfish that had been washed up on the beach and, one at a time he was throwing them back into the water.

He approached the boy and asked him why he spent so much energy doing what seemed to be a waste of time.

The boy replied, "If these starfish are left out here like this they will bake in the sun, and by this afternoon they will all be dead."

"But", said the man, "You can't possibly save them all, there are thousands on this beach, and this must be happening on hundreds of beaches along the coast. You can't possibly make a difference."

The boy then held up the starfish he had in his hand and replied, "It's sure going to make a lot of difference to this one!"

Similarly, I might not be able to teach the whole world how to swim, in particularly prevent drowning from happening.

But if 1 day, just 1 student could prevent himself/herself from drowning because Teacher Jerry taught him/her how to swim, then, all my efforts are worth it. Because, I make a difference to 1 life.

The value of time.

To realise the value of one year;
Ask a student who has failed a final exam.

To realise the value of one month;
Ask a mother who has given birth to a prematured baby.

To realise the value of one week;
Ask an editor of a weekly newspaper.

To realise the value of one hour;
Ask lovers who are waiting to meet.

To realise the value of one minute;
Ask someone who has missed a train, bus or plane.

To realise the value of one second;
Ask someone who has survivied an accident.

To realise the value of one millisecond;
Ask someone who has won a silver medal in the Olympics.

So the next time, u hear someone saying, we still have lots of time, quote Teacher Jerry post to him... =)

The words kids say....

I love teaching kids because they say words that are so ever cute and innocent that you just cant help laughing....

#1 (The latest recently from my kids)
Student A: "Teacher Jerry... U are so dark."

Student B: "Yaya.. U are like Batman!"

#2 (The heartwarming)
Teacher Jerry: "You must be a good boy and practise your swimming ok!"
Student: "Why?"
Teacher Jerry: "Well, if you practice, then you can learn to swim faster!"
Student:"But I dun wan. Once I know how to swim. Mummy will not let me take lesson from you anymore.."

#3 (The ever classic one...)
Teacher Jerry: "Ok! You must use ur nose to blow your bubbles ok!?"
Student: "But I got a running nose... I cannot blow.."

Charity work....

Prior to my previous post on my Dreamboard... I thought about it.. Instead of providing education to kids in Thailand, I can start 1st by doing something for the less fortunate kids in Singapore.

So, here's an appeal to all charity organisation out there. I would like to do something to help these children. I don't know how I can help but I would like to help. I have send emails to Singapore Children Society and Children Cancer Foundation before indicating my interest to coach those kids swimming, but to no avail..

So, if you know of any organisation that needs help, do let me know how I can be of help. I wish I can do my part for charity too.. Here's my email: Jerrycoaching@yahoo.com or hp:9100 1855

Cheers! =)

Adult Swimmers~ A fun lot.

I have never laughed so much before.. I mean, literally laughing throughout 2 hours of my lesson!

I laughed till my jaws felt as if they were cramping up...
I laughed till I felt my cheeks muscles are toning up..
I laughed till tears drop...

That's how much I laughed yesterday while having lessons with my adult students.

Teaching them is always full of laughter and lots of jokes... I like the way my students think and communciate with me.

Especially when I tell them.. "By 4 lessons, you all will be able to swim. TRUST ME." And they will go... "Really?! Sure or not.." Hee...

After teaching almost 100 adults, I think I can safely say 90% of adults are able to swim by the 4th lesson. Of course there are those who are able to swim by the 2nd lesson while some might just need a little more time...

The other day,my student Jacequline was asking me... "I thought she just learn 4 lesson, now can swim already? 1st lesson she was shivering with fear!?"

I said.."Ya lor... I think I can guaranteed my adult students from now on that in 4 lessons time, u confirm can swim... =p"

Can i have 1 more hour?

Alot of frenz have been asking me... Why I only blog about swimming, students, sports, training or motivational stuff and nothing else..

Well, if you take a look at Teacher Jerry's timetable, you will understand. My typical day starts from 4am till 12midnight and I filled it with training programs and swimming lessons.

I seriously need more than 24hours.... Perhaps, just 1 more extra hour is enough. However, Enough is never enough =)

Letter to a teacher

Dear Teacher,

Teach my son that all men are not just,
all men are not true.
But teach him also that
for every scoundrel there is a hero;
that for every selfish Politician,
there is a dedicated leader...
Teach him for every enemy there is a friend,

Steer him away from envy,
if you can,
teach him the secret of
quiet laughter.

Let him learn early that
the bullies are the easiest to lick...
Teach him, if you can,
the wonder of books...
But also give him quiet time
to ponder the eternal mystery of birds in the sky,
bees in the sun,
and the flowers on a green hillside.

In the school teach him
it is far honourable to fail
than to cheat...
Teach him to have faith
in his own ideas,
even if everyone tells him
they are wrong...
Teach him to be gentle
with gentle people,
and tough with the tough.

Try to give my son
the strength not to follow the crowd
when everyone is getting on the band wagon...
Teach him to listen to all men...
but teach him also to filter
all he hears on a screen of truth,
and take only the good
that comes through.

Teach him if you can,
how to laugh when he is sad...
Teach him there is no shame in tears,
Teach him to scoff at cynics
and to beware of too much sweetness...
Teach him to sell his brawn
and brain to the highest bidders
but never to put a price-tag
on his heart and soul.

Teach him to close his ears
to a howling mob
and to stand and fight
if he thinks he's right.
Treat him gently,
but do not cuddle him,
because only the test
of fire makes fine steel.

Let him have the courage
to be impatient...
let him have the patience to be brave.
Teach him always
to have sublime faith in himself,
because then he will have
sublime faith in mankind.

This is a big order,
but see what you can do...
He is such a fine fellow,
my son!

This was a letter from Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, written to his son's teacher on the 1st day of school...

3rd drowning case in a week

Last Tuesday, a 35-year old man drowned while fishing in a 5m-deep Jurong Lake.
3 days later, a canoe instructor of the same age drowned while coaching students at MacRitchie Reservoir.
Yesterday afternoon, a chinese national drowned in sea off Changi Beach.

Here's the report from The Straits Times by Teh Joo Lin.

A CHINESE national drowned in the sea off Changi Beach on Sunday afternoon in the third drowning incident here in a week.
Mr Lin Zhong, a 20-year-old who worked in a furnishings factory, was said to be with three colleagues in chest-deep water just off the shore when he went under.

It is unclear how much time elapsed before another co-worker discovered that Mr Lin, who could not swim, had disappeared. No one heard any cries for help.

The colleague, Mr Ang Lian Kwee, 64, said he was swimming towards the shore when he saw a head bobbing in the water. Soon after, it disappeared.

He raised the alarm, sparking a search mission by police boats, amphibious vehicles and rescue divers. The body was recovered six hours later after being spotted by a beach-goer just before nightfall.

Mr Ang told The Straits Times that he had taken the group of four Chinese workers to the beach - their first time there - yesterday around noon.

They stripped down to their swimming shorts and played in the water about 2m from the shore, while Mr Ang swam out farther.

At about 1pm, Mr Ang was about 35m out and facing the beach when he saw a head of black hair drifting away.

He jerked his head towards the group and realised there were only three men - who were taking photos - near the shore.

He quickly swam towards Mr Lin, but his head vanished when he was 3m or 4m away. 'I swam there and groped and kicked everywhere but I couldn't feel him anywhere in the water,' he said in Mandarin. Mr Ang screamed at his colleagues and beach-goers for help.

P/s: Drowning can be happened at any place, any time, anywhere. Wherever you are, PLEASE, take good care of yourself.

It's painful to lose a love one thru drowning... Simply too painful.. I have lost 2.

Promises..

How many will remember & keep the promises u once made?

15th Intake for Holiday Swimming Intensive Programs

Due to the popular demand...

We will be having our holiday intensive swimming lesson this coming June holidays! =D This will be our 15th intake!

Everything remains pretty much the same expect that this time round, we have a special guest instructor! Teacher Hester! =D

I foresee that we are going to have much more fun with the children this time round, with 3 coaches together.

And, I did a short video like before on the upcoming intake, do take a look at it! =)

Now, here are the full details...

Location #1: Yio Chu Kang Swimming Complex
Day: Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday
Time: 9am, 10am, 11am, 4pm, 5pm
Commencing on: 1st June 2009 - 17th June 2009
Vacancies: 10 students per time slot
Price: $80 for 8 lessons (U.P $130)
Coaches: Teacher Jerry, Teacher Rae & Teacher Hester

Location #2: Seng Kang Swimming Complex
Day: Every Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday
Time: 9am, 10am, 11am, 4pm, 5pm
Commencing on: 2nd June 2009 - 18th June 2009
Vacancies: 10 students per time slot
Price: $80 for 8 lessons (U.P $130)
Coaches: Teacher Jerry, Teacher Rae & Teacher Hester

For more enquires, do not hesitate to contact me @ 9100 1855 or email me Jerrycoaching@yahoo.com =)

Simply too much photos to blog about Taiwan... Guess it's gonna take some time... Good stuff are meant to be waited... =p

I am back..

Yes, as the title suggest... I'm home. Didnt use the word We. Because Teacher Rae is still playing in Taiwan!!

Well, I got lots to upload... Only managed to upload Day 1 photos... Hmm.. 5 more days of photos to upload... So, Look out! =D

We are going to Taiwan....

A gentle reminder to everyone once again in case you forget...

There will be no lesson from 28th April 09 (Today) till 3rd May 09(Sunday) as we are travelling to Taiwan.

So, we will see you from 4th May 09! =D

Well, we know you are going to miss us... So, we placed some posters on some Bus stations... Go find us! =D

We will be back on Sunday... See you then!!

Yet another stopwatch STOLEN

My 2nd stopwatch that has got stolen in the pool. The 1st one was in June 2007. 2 years later, my Casio Stop watch gets stolen again.

Am I angry? You bet. I'm Furious, I'm Mad, I'm Fuming, I'm Annoyed & I'm Disgusted.

I'm Furious because this is the 2nd time I lost my stop watch
I'm Mad because I shouldn't have left my stopwatch leaving around
I'm Annoyed because there are thieves around you and yet you can do nothing about it.
I'm disgusted because all they took was less than 1 min to steal my stop watch

And I don't understand. Why is it that my stopwatch always gets stolen just before the day my students are going for their test!?

As of my 1st stopwatch, I know the chances of getting it back is super slim. But hey to Mr.Thief. Yes. You. If you are reading this. I just wanna tell u. I'm disguised by your actions but I've gotta over my anger.

Teacher Rae says you might be so poor that you cant afford a watch. So yeah, I hope you really will put my stopwatch into good use.

This post shall serves as a reminder to all that during this recession time, you should watch over your valuables more. Especially in public places. You never know who's eyeing your stuff. So boys and girls, Be Vigilant with your belongings in the swimming pool.

For now, I will just stick to my good old Timex Ironman Triathlon Watch. Cheers

Nassa Bronze Test, 26 April 2009

Good Luck & all the best to all my children... =)

26 April 2009 (Sunday), 1 pm

Renald
Yi Ling
Asha
Malcolm
Jun Hua
Sin Siew
Jia Yun
Geng Yang
Yu Heng
Wei Ming
Joshua
Irfan
Javen
Kimberly
Jin Ying
Kenneth
Brian
Jun Liang
Garion
Kai Heng

Don't forget to report @ 12noon! =D

Look out for cyclists!

Have been waking up @ 4.30am recently just so that I could bring my bicycle - Charcoal out for a morning ride everyday.

Its not that I dun wish to sleep. But most drivers on the roads are crazily crazy. For one, they dun give way to cyclist. I mean, cyclist are really vulnerable on the road. When a car that's driving at 100km/hr along the mandai road beside me, the whole bike will shake due to the wind force. That's how vulnerable cyclist are!

Therefore, to prevent my charcoal from meeting the heavy traffic, I gotta bring him out on the road by 5am and complete my bike training by 9am before going for classes.

Anyway, here's 2 test for you to take. Especially for car drivers.

Scientists call this "inattentive blindness". It happens because we have a limited ability to absorb and remember details when our brain is overloaded with information.

So, the next time when you are on the road. Please look out for cyclist and let them have the right of way! Well, it doesnt hurt to give 5 sec to cyclists to move off right?

Who knows, someday, somewhere, that someone you are honking at, maybe your love ones. So, Look out for Cyclists!

Batam Cable Ski Again =D

7 months ago, Teacher Rae & I went over to Batam to cable ski.
7 months later, We went back again! But this time with lots more people!

Hee... 11 of us went over to Batam for cable Ski and this time round, the combination was fantastic! A combination of coaches and student

The students with the 6 coaches. Can you spot them? =p

As you all know, I wasnt able to wakeboard on the last trip. So I gotta make sure I could make it this time round! =D And after hours of hard work, I'm finally able to wakeboard! Yeah...

What I have learn from this cable ski experience.... I feel that life is just like a round of cable skiing. You don't know what lies ahead of you. Surely you can plan what are the stuff you are going to do. But unexpected events are bound to happen.

The starting part of the cable ski is always the most exciting yet most frightening part. Cause you don't know weather you are going to make it or fall down. But 1 thing is for sure. You will only know the result after you give it a try.

If you don't, you will just be a spectator watching how people fall and swim back to the starting point again.

Everyone must and will fall @ the initial stage. It's just a matter of how many times you fall and how many times you are willing to swim back to the starting line again to retry. I fell for dunnoe how many thousand times before I could finally do it.

Alot of times, alot of people gave up after falling too many times because they started to have doubts in themselves whether they can make it or not.

For me, I believe you should keep that faith in and keep trying. Because, Anything Is Possible(*oops copyrighted from IronMan slogan =p)

And that's just the intial part. After you are able to stand on the surface of the water, there's still 1 round of long journey for you to endure thru. There were so many times where the hand just feel like giving up cause it was feeling so tired but isn't that how life is? It moulds you thru difficult times, it puts you thru hardship so that you would experience the fruits of your labour.

Surely, you can give up halfway, but the thought of going all the way back to the starting point makes me want to carry on that journey to complete my 1 round of cable ski. Strangely enough, after completing 1 round, you kind of "head home" and the cheers and encouragement from your family members and friends gave you the energy and boaster to go for 1 more round. Yeah~!

For now, I'm happy that I have experience how to wakeboard and I'm keeping my fingers cross that perhaps, the next time I go back, I can still remember~ =D

The importance of a Right choice

Had a great 14km run last night @ ECP with a long lost friend of mine. Thru out the run, we were inspiring each other with our little stories. I shared alot of thoughts with him on my passion for swimming and he gave me alot of positive thinking's and inspiration. Thanks Jason!

There came a topic where I told him about 1 new student that I had, who has been learning swimming for the past 1 and half year from a coach. Yet, this student is still learning to swim with a kick board @ the learning pool.

I was sharing with him how the parents came to me 'with tears' in the eyes asking me Why? Why for the past 1 and half year despite attending every swimming lesson, she dun see any progress in her child.

And yet, just 4 lessons with me, her son is swimming at the deep pool with freestyle.

I dun wanna comment about the previous coach neither do I want to "show off" here. I mean, I always say,
"Every individual child is unique and the learning method is different too. Some kids definitely learn faster while others take a longer time." But 1 and a half year @ learning pool with kick board, that's ridiculous.

I shared with Jason that, “人这一辈子最怕作出错的选择”. Translate to English, it means, In life, everyone is afraid of making the wrong choices.

I mean, who isn't? But, the most important thing is to learn from the mistake and dun make the same mistake again.

I might not be the best swimming teacher around but at least I know I'm trying to be the best coach for my students.

I might not be the best choice as a swimming coach but at least I know, I'm definitely not the wrong choice.

Congratulations Kids~ Well DOne!

Congratulations to all my kids for passing your Nassa Silver & Gold Test with flying colors! It was really flying colors. Well done!

There were a total 3 batches of students who took their Silver & Gold test. So, here they are... Starting from the latest group that pass with amazing results last sunday.

Starting from Left:(Jolyn, Colin, Jerry, Sheryl)

Did you notice their cap number? I didn't know that there was such a significant in it. Out of 1o candidates, my 3 kids came in top 3... =D So proud of them... Yeah~

Moments before their 3mins of 2 laps starts....

This is how my champion team looks like after completing their gold test. They dun look tired @ all!

And how can i forget to take individual shots with them!? hee... =D

If a picture is worth a thousand words, there's gonna be trillion of words in my photos. Hee.. Its fun seeing my students take their Silver & Gold test. The atmosphere is really different as compared to them taking their bronze test.

From Left: (Begarita, Satahi, Jerry, Joseph, Joel)

I told him to smile @ the camera and this is Joseph take #1!

And take #2... hee.

And the "Seniors" who are training to be competive swimmers... They are the most "zhai" group and taking their gold test was like a stroll in the park! Congratulations children!

From Left:(Andra, Quan Min, Jeremy, Venjamin, Jerry)

The Adrenaline Rush is Back!

After missing out on last year Singapore Aviva Ironman 70.3 due to my National Callup, I am now seriously considering on Ironman Philippines 70.3 that's happening on 23 Aug 2009. It's a 5th week! Which means I will have time for this race!

Last date of registration is on July 31st, which means I will definately miss out on the early bird registration. But I got to make sure that this year round, the Nation doesn't need my service. Else, what happened last year might just happen again. I dun wanna withdraw from the race again.

From now till Aug, there's still about 5 more months left. Which means I got to train doubly harder which I'm proud to say I have been! I been starting to train @ 5.30am on Monday, Tuesday and today! Lolx. Great to have Facebook Voomaxer to keep track of my logs. =)

Yeah, the adrenaline rush to complete in Ironman 70.3 is back again. But for now, its time to save up money for the race (USD 200) and for a new bike. Yes, I need a tri bike for better performance. My current road bike is not giving me the performance I'm looking for.

So, if you are reading this post now and the sense of charity or sponsorship feeling is lingering around in your head, Please feel free to sponsor me! Your generoursity will be deeply appreciated! =D

Determined Parents Brave Monster Line for Swim Lessons

This is what happened in New York!

Determined Parents Brave Monster Line for Swim Lessons!

Surprisingly we don't see that in Singapore. But who knows, 1 day, There might be a long queue of students/parents queing up to take up swimming lessons from Teacher Jerry? Who knows... Nothing is Impossible. =D

Megan the Froggie

Just realised that I have tons of events "unblogged". Was just browsing thru my lappy and I saw this video of Megan!

Megan Underwater Diving! Haha... I cant help bursting out to laughter when I saw this video. Till date, I have not seen any other students who's able to imitate a "froggie" as good as her.

I think Megan is a naturally froggie swimmer! Or is it her coach who teaches her that.... Hee... For now, let's call her Megan the Froggie! =p

How is this possible?

How is this possible? Lightning on a sunny day? Heavy Rain on a sunny day? Thunder on a sunny day?

Been experiencing these kind of weird phenomenon for the past 3 days.. I seriously think the earth is sick. Let's use less plastic bags then! Do your bit to save the Earth!

Even our dear Merlion can get strike by lightning, let's just pray hard that this phenomenon will not last. =p Time to sing song... Rain Rain, Go Away...

Swimming Pool Store Value Cards - Savings!

I realised that quite alot of people do not realise that there's this "Store Value Card" by Singapore Sports Council. So, let Teacher Jerry teach you how to save money using this card when going to the swimming pool! =D

This Card basically works this way. Instead of buying your tickets thru the machine outside the swimming pool which cost $0.50 (Children) & $1 (Adults) on weekdays, $0.70(Children) & $1.30(Adults) on weekends, You can buy this "Store Value Card" both for adults and children @ $10 with a $2 refundable deposit.

The advantage of this card is that instead of paying the norm rate, you save $0.10 per entry. Alright, I know 10 cents might seems little but hey, in bad times like this, you actually save quite abit you know... Imagine, you have 2 kids entering the pool, you save 20cents just by using this card.

I always think it this way, for every 10 entries, you get 1 free entry! =) Best of all, this card can be used in all Singapore Sports Council Swimming Pools.

So, the next time when you drop by the pool, approach the counter to get your value card! =)

P.s: This entry is written out of goodwill to share some cost savings with all & is definitely not sponsored by the Singapore Sports Council. Hee...

Raffles Girls Pri Swimming Heats!

What a happening weekend!

1st is a good news that I would like to share with all. Proud moments!! Secondly will be the silver test that my 4 boys took on Sunday.

Last friday, Raffles Girls Primary School (RGPS) had their School Swimming Competition and 2 of my girls, Isabell and Tasneem took part in the breaststroke event. Guess what?! They came in 1st and 3rd respectively in the heats event!

Girls, am I so proud of the 2 of them! Tasneem came under my wings only in December while Isabell somewhere in october.

Both their win in the heats were totally unexpected from me as they are training only 1 hour, once a week with me as compared to others who are training 3 times a week to everyday!

Well done girls!

And Good Luck to your Finals!

Add me on facebook & MSN~!

As per requested by most... You are welcome to add me on both Facebook & MSN! Here's my email for both - Ultraman_toh@hotmail.com

Althought I must admit, I'm still trying to figure out all the applications of Facebook. But I'm surely looking forward in you leaving a message for me on the wall! Hee...

Happy Valentine's Day!!

First and foremost, Happy valentine's Day to all Love birds and couples out there! Wishing each and everyone will enjoy this special moment with your love ones.

Myself, I will also be spending this lovely and romantic day with all my children! Hee... =D

Strangely enough, when one's single, it seems that alot of attached friends will come asking you for ideas on what to do on valentine day. Lolx... But, I have long lost what it feels like shopping or dating on weekends. =)

But, if you were to ask me, Everyday is a valentine day if u are enjoying the moment and company of that special someone.

If Teacher Jerry were to celebrate this day, I would most probably cook my “拿手好菜”(my speciality) - Spaghetti Carbonara for her with a fruit platter as desserts. I think cooking shows alot of sincerity in it.

And yes, Mummy is rushing me.... She's been hinting that she wants a grandchild...

Miss Tong was saying this to me the other day too "You should stop immersing yourself so much in the water and try to find a partner. It's time you settle down."

Well, 1 step @ a time at this moment. For now, its swimming and my kids 1st before anything else... =D

Once again, Happy Valentine's Day!

Boy, 3, drowns in pond during family dinner

My deepest condolences to the family.

By TAN WEIZHEN AND SUJIN THOMAS

THE body of a three-year-old boy was found floating in a pond on Sunday night at Farmart Centre along Sungei Tengah Road.

Farmart Centre is a cluster of vegetable and animal farms near Kranji.

According to the staff-in-charge at the centre, the boy had slipped away during a family dinner and was discovered unconscious shortly after.

The police said they had received a call at 8.55pm, informing them that a boy had drowned in a pond.

He was taken to the National University Hospital and pronounced dead at 9.55pm.

According to staff, the two fish ponds were closed at the time but did not have any barricades.

Each pond is about 1.5 metres deep.

Said the staff-in-charge, who declined to give his name: 'Nobody knows what happened exactly.

'From what my staff know, he went missing while his parents were having dinner and his mother started shouting for him.

'A patron then spotted his body floating in the fish pond.'

The police have classified the incident as unnatural death.

Source: Straitstime.com

The vain side of us...

The other day, I said this to my brother...

"Didi, let's go for a photo shoot!"

And we were so lucky that we actually got "sponsored" by Shirley from Tadsphoto! Therefore, all photos credits to her, and copyright of hers! =)

She specialised in taking babies photographs! Go visit her galleries at http://www.tadsphoto.com/ !

So, for parents who wish to take your babies portfolio, give her a call! She's good with babies and her skills are professional! You've seen her skills on our photos! Hee...
We took a total of 234 photos in a 2 hour shoot with her and yeah, there were lots of fun & laughter. So, now you know how vain your 2 swimming coaches are right? Hee... But, I still think Rae is more vain... Hee
Due to the amount of intense photos, I decided to place all the photos into an online album show, so do take a look! =)

This photo shoot also make me realised how good this brother of mine can pose! And some of his photos looks like a real model. *PS, there were no make ups on us! True colours. Hee* =)
Sponsors out there who are interested in engaging us as spokesman for your products or model, feel free to contact Rae @ 9389 3858 & Jerry @ 9100 1855. =p

For now, enjoy the slide show photos! =p

Teen drowns in condo pool

I found this news online. It happened on CNY eve. Last Year, around this time, I blogged something similiar too. You may read about the '08 news here

My condolences to the family.

By Shuli Sudderuddin

SALES assistant Siti Nurbaiyah, 27, had planned to take her youngest brother, 13-year-old Muhammad Khairul, swimming this Chinese New Year long weekend.

But before the weekend even started, he drowned at a friend's condominium pool.

He had gone to play soccer on Friday afternoon at a friend's Kensington Park Drive condo. His best friend, Rafiq Mohd Wapa, 13, said Khairul later wanted to cool off and the two headed to the condo pool.

While Khairul was swimming alone, Rafiq was listening to his MP3 player by the pool.

'When I looked up, I didn't see anyone in the pool, so I thought I would go home first,' he said, adding that he had texted Khairul but did not get a reply.

He later saw a Caucasian man pulling Khairul's body out of the pool and trying to revive him.

Khairul's mother, housewife Robaiyah Napiah, 52, said he had called her that afternoon to say he would be home late.

At 7pm, she received a call from Rafiq's mother telling her that Khairul had fainted by the pool.

The family rushed down to KK Women's and Children's Hospital, but Khairul had been pronounced dead by the time they arrived.

The boy's family had not sent him for any formal swimming lessons.

'He liked to swim but I was unsure how well he could really swim,' said Ms Siti when The Sunday Times visited the family's three-room flat in Ang Mo Kio.

This is not the first case of a child drowning in a condo pool.

In September 2007, Jonathan Chow Kin Mun, 10, drowned in Palm Gardens condominium's pool after an epileptic seizure.

A four-year-old boy also died after falling into The Lincoln Modern's swimming pool in February the same year.

The youngest of four siblings, Khairul had just started his Secondary 1 studies at Yio Chu Kang Secondary School.

Ms Siti said that he was a well-behaved, quiet child who did well in school and enjoyed mathematics.

'He never complained or asked my parents for things,' she said.

Added Madam Robaiyah: 'When we asked him what he wanted to be when he grew up, he said he wanted to earn a lot of money and give it to us. He was so good.'

Source from: Straitstime.com

Happy 金牛 Year! Huat ah!

It's the time to welcome our Golden Ox Year!

Teacher Jerry & Teacher Rae hereby wishes every children 学业进步，身体安康, 事事开心！

And adults -事事顺利, 财源滚滚, 财源广进!

Last but not least, in the Year of the Golden Ox, eveyone must Huat ah!! 招财进宝，恭喜发大财! Huat ah!! =D

Obama Wanna me

Yes. We can & Change we can believe in. We have been hearing this lots from this amazing man. A man truly worth my respect. =)

So, presenting to you... Singapore version of "Coach Obama"

Hee... Have a great weekend!

Kids who are interested to try this out, check out this website Obamicon.me Have Fun!! =D

The good things about us

My brother, Teacher Rae & me have never bad mouth others. Be it a thing, a person or an organisation.

When parents want to compare us with other swim coaches. We've never bad mouth our fellow competitors. Instead, we freely allow them to compare our good & bad.

When parents want to change from their current swimming instructors to us. Instead, we encouraged them to stay on with their current instructors.

When parents ask us why their kids are not progressing from their current coach. Instead, we bring out the good points of that coach.

We dun say the bad stuff about others. We will only say the good things about ourselves. So, whats the good things about us?

You have read the blog.
You have chatted with us.
You have attend our swimming lessons.
You have realised our good points haven't you? Hee...

Pre Test Stress Trauma Syndrome

I have never felt so stressful over my students taking their Nassa Bronze Test before. Never. No doubt this is not the 1st time I send 20 of them to the bronze test. But this time, I felt the pressure much more then before.

2 weeks before my children test yesterday, I already have 2 students facing what I call "Pre-Test Stress Trauma Syndrome" Sounds like a big word huh? Yes, it is a big word to kids who are just 6, 7 years old.

Signs of such stress includes:

- The lack of courage to perform their treading water
- The lack of courage to take out their pyjamas & making their float
- Having a feeling that they are getting very tired from treading water
- Having a feeling that they are drowning
- Complaining the water is too cold to swim
- The unwillingness of doing their surface dive @ 1.8m
- Shouting / Screaming
- Crying

Nothing wrong with having such stress for children like their age. I totally understand and expected it to happen. But if such signs last till the very night before the test date. I guess I have all the reasons to feel the stress of my kids too right?

1 of my adult student, Alice ask me on sat night, "Why do u look so stress Jerry?"
Jerry: "My students are taking the Nassa Bronze Test Tml."
Alice: "So? Will stress one mehx?"
Jerry:"Some of them are facing Pre Exam Stress. And I'm getting worried for my children."
Alice: "Then why send them for the test when they are not ready? My kids coach never gets stress over such stuff."
Jerry: "My children are ready for the test. I know. I guess I'm stress because I have high expectations of them. They have trained so hard for it. I want the best out of every child."

And on that very night, Just like my 19 children(Garion fell sick due to eye infection, hence missing the test), they can't sleep. Neither could I.

I was tossing on my bed thinking about how they will perform on Sunday test.

The moment I close my eyes, I could see 1 student crying and say "Teacher Jerry, I'm scared"
The moment I try to get some sleep, I dream of my student treading water and Scream.

I woke up @ 6am on Sunday, I just couldn't get to sleep anymore. As the time gets nearer for their test, I got more worried for them. Alot of thoughts went thru my mind. I was thinking,

- Have I not well prepared them enough for the test?
- Have I not done something right?
- What should I say to the children later?

At 11.20am, 1 by 1 they turn up for the test.
16 came with a smile

2 came with tears in their eyes

1 came trembling

I would say, its totally normal for them to show such signs. It simply shows how important this test meant for them. When was the last time you felt nervous over a test, an exam or even a presentation?

I believe its either due to poor preparation or you have high expectations for yourself. The latter is what my children n I were experiencing.

When it was finally their turn to take their test, 1 by 1 they jumped off the edge of the pool and started to swim. As they swim, my heart pumps even faster. I was definitely more nervous then them.

And when I personally saw how each and everyone of them were able to go thru the 3mins of treading water and took out their pyjamas to make their float, tears almost dropped (Luckily, I was wearing sunglasses. hee...)

I know I am the kind of coach who will be:
- More excited than my students
- More stress up than my students
- Feeling sadder than my students if they didn't pass the test or do something well
- Jumping higher & happier in joy than my students if they pass the test

My pri sch teacher, Miss Tong who was there watching her daughter Magdelene swim. After the test, she asked me. "Stressed? Watching all your students take the test."

I asked her back : "Cher, is this normal?"
Miss Tong: "Of course! The teacher is always more stress then the student. It shows you care."

I guess I inherited some of her good teaching ethics. =)

Oh, ya. All of them passed their 1st swimming test! And I'm really appreciative of the help some of the parents gave to their children. Pushing and encouraging their kids to a point where no coaches could go expect the parents. Thank you! =)

Good luck Children!!!

This coming sunday will be an exciting day for my kids! 1st time taking the NASSA Bronze Test. Teacher Jerry knows you all will be very nervous.

Dun worry children, We have trained hard for this day. Do your best and good luck to all of you! =)

Wishing all the best to...

18 Jan 08 (Sunday, 12 noon)
Maurice
Lynette
Faith
Tasneem
Xinyu
XinYu
Winston
Jonathan
ZhiQin
Swee Ann
Joey
Timothy
Magdelene
Edwin
Hannah
Rachel
Yong Khang
Su Jun
Samuel
Garion

Also, Congratulations to Roy and Sheng Teng for achieving your Bronze Award last sat!
Well done boys! =)

Closure of Singapore Sports Council Sports Facilities

Hey everyone! Tml (15 Jan 09, Thursday), all Singapore Sports Council Sports Facilities will be closed from 3pm, for a SSC staff event.

This include venues like Swimming pool, Stadium, Badminton court, Squash Court, Tennis Court etc. So, do take note ok! =)

My dad says..

The other day, my daddy said this to me.

"I think u r spending more time in water than on land..."

Hmmm... thinking on this words... I think its true.. No wonder, I'm starting to receive nicks like Water Boy & Water Buffalo... Hee... I'm enjoying my times in water...

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year everyone! May All Your Wishes come true and may the year be filled with good health, good wealth and good smiles in 2009! =)

We recieved a news recently from Disneyland. Yes, Disneyland told us that they are going to build a park in the name of THE WATER FAMILY! So, we will be appearing in Disneyland LA, Japan and Hong Kong in 2009 for a year.

They even send us a news report from Sun 7 news team. Check out the videos! Thank you so much Disneyland! =D What a great way to start our 2009!

P/s: 1 lucky winner will get a chance to travel to Disneyland with Teacher Rae n me! Will you be the one? =D

Resolutions for 2009

1 more day and that will marks the end of 2008. And 2009 will quietly slips in without most of us knowing.

When I was at the age 18, Someone told me. "Jerry, when you reach the 20plus, time flies even before you realised it!" I never believed that till now. Next year, I be age 25! Time seems to fly so fast... Looking back at 2008, there's full of ups and downs.

And there are those wonderful memories I had in 2008 like my relief teaching in MayFlower Secondary, the filming for MediaCorp and My Children's Party! As I was looking back, I realised that I told myself to have a resolution in 2008 but I failed.

Now that this is the time for reflections, I shall start looking at the things I failed to do it before I regret it at an older age. 2008:

- I failed to make a resolution and stick to it.
- I missed 3 events. Aviva Ironman 70.3 Singapore, Singapore Standard Chartered Marathon, Taiwan ING Marathon.
- I missed my flight to Taipei (Not much ppl know abt it)
- I missed my connections with friends

But at the same time, I learned and growed. 2008 has taught me alot, Mostly from mistakes and failures.

And as I say goodbye to 2008, I shall welcome my exciting 2009! With some of the events already lined up.. And slowly, 1 by 1, it will be materialized. =D

For 2009, I only have 1 resolution.

I'm going to be the 1st Smile giver to anyone, be it a friend or a stranger. Yes, I know, it feels strange to say the 1st Hello to a stranger and to give that smile out. But I'm going to try.

So, here's my 1st smile to u! Whoever u r, a friend, a student, a parent, a silent reader, a foe or a stranger. I give u my smile.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas Everyone! Ho Ho Ho!

These are the christmas presents Teacher Jerry receive this christmas... Thank you! =)

I have 2 boxes of chocolates, 1 pen, 1 cap, 1 mickey mouse towel,1 box of cookies and 1 Ferrero Rocher.

Among all these presents, there's 1 that touches me deep...

It's a handmake card by Zi Liang. On the cover, he wrote a simple Thank You. And inside the card, he says

"Dear Teacher Jerry, Thank You for your great effort! I am now a happy little froggie!" And he drew me some snowflakes and says "These are snowflakes I wish to see these in Singapore!"

He has been learning to swim for 2 years under a swim school which I will not mention here. Apprently, after 2 years, he cant even swim 50m(1 lap of the swimming pool)

So I was called in to help him.. (I sound like some SCDF here..) hee... Ok, anyway, after barely 4 lessons, he did a total of 15 laps. That's why he says "I'm now a happy little froggie!"

Notice how realistic he drew the cards? His blue swim suit =D

And signing off wishing everyone, A Merry Merry Chirstmas! Ho HO Ho! =p

Part 6 of 6 - The Appreciation

"The Best Party of the Year"

A simple thank you never seems to be enough when you are really thankful and grateful to the wonderful support you have doesnt it?

I just cant find the right words to say my thanks to all the parents. Other than Thank you, its still Thank You.

Thank You for all the support you gave to me and my brother - Rae.
Thank You for the attending the party despite it being a sunday.
Thank You for bringing the kids down to the party despite the far and ulu distance.
Thank You for readily say "YES. We will attend" when I invited you all for the party.
Thank You for helping out in the party in every little way.
Thank You for all the food you bring. The party couldn't have go on without them. =)
Thank You for calling me and asked if I was missing out any items.
Thank You for not minding the lack of chairs to sit on.
Thank You for telling the children "Listen to Teacher Jerry"
Thank You for staying on the party till really late even though its monday the next day.
Thank You for discussing with me the amount of food we should prepare.
Thank You for all the initiatives you took.
Thank You for bringing extra food.
Thank You for spending the time to buy the food.
Thank You for spending the time to cook for us.
Thank You for helping out with the washing of dishes.
Thank You for bringing your whole family to the party.
Thank You for entrusting your children with me.
Thank You for not minding me as a bad host.
Thank You for your understandings.
Thank You for your feedbacks.
Thank You for your presences.
Thank You for making the time and effort down even though you were not free.
Thank You for your silent support.

Last but not least, I thank each and everyone of you. I really Thank you with deep gratitude and appreciation for helping to make the party a huge success. =)

We did it! And Elaine says - "This is the Best Party of the Year."
(ok, if there's really such an award for it, we shall nominate for it! Hee.. And all of us shall share the prize money for another party! =D)

Part 5 of 6 - The Family Photo

Taking a family photo usually is a breeze. But when u have kids running all around with all the fun and food... U need a super nanny to bring the kids together....

Thankfully I have all the parents to help out... =D

This is what happen when you tell the kids to get ready for a family photo.. Some of them gets into position while some are suddenly missing..

Looking for who's missing...

And after some organisation... We have our 1st Family shot of the day...

Some parents suggest the idea of opening up a child care center to me... Ya, perhaps I should really set up 1 child care center and everyday, the kids and Me, we will just play whole day... Sounds wonderful. But that doesnt happen in real life. =)

Last year, Andra mummy says I'm like a honey, the kids follow wherever I go... This year, the honey is back! Hee... See.. the bees are gathering around their Teacher Honey again... for their beloved Presents... =D

This is the number of bags of presents Teacher Rae and Me had prepared for the kids this year...

And finally our 2nd Family photo of the day...

After which, it was another round of games for the kids again.... A night full of fun... =)

Part 4 of 6 - Highlights

All parties must have a highlight that brings the whole event to a big bang.. Our's was of a simple & traditional yet for years enjoyed by all... Be it kids or adults...

That's right.. Fire sparklers! It's always @ this moment that I feel like a Santa Clause(minus away the tummy) hee...

Looking @ the way I was bullied last year... This year crowd control seems to be better wif Teacher Rae and me distributing the sparklers & lighting them up for the kids... =)

Lighting up 1 by 1 always seems too slow for the kids...

So, innovative and creativity comes to the kids...

Not only does the little ones enjoyed, The big ones enjoyed too!

Thinking back.. I think I never played any sparklers! Too busy lighting them up for the kids... Hee...

So while the kids (of all ages...hee) are still playing with the spaklers... Let's take a look @ our BBQ squad!

We are still BBQing!!

Endless supplies of food and fun.... =p

Part 3 of 6 - The Games

So while the parents are helping out with the BBQ...

I'm conducting Lesson #2 for the kids! Blowing bubbles! Haha... Hey! Blowing bubbles is important in swimming ok! Therefore, all my students must know how to blow bubbles... and that includes my dearest maths teacher.. Mr. Krishna! =p

And you know Teacher Jerry the Santa Claus is coming when he's walking around with one big box of bubbles! =D
Look at the amount of bubbles my kids can blow!

And the display of "Kung Fu Bubble Man" by Sheng Teng

I always believe in giving rewards.. So, the most bubble maker gets an extra 5 bottles! Lolx..

An heart warming moment where u see father n son bonding...

Sights like these were common...

The parents chasing after the kids to ask them to eat. The kids chasing after me for fun... And the parents end up eating the food! Hee...

Briefing for our next game...

Discussing our plans...

I'm the Big Rooster protecting my chicks! =p

It's not such an easy job protecting so many chicks ok! I was so tired that I requested for 1 min of break time.. but these kids just dun let me rest...

Haha...So, back to the game... This time, I'm the eagle!

And Pei Wen starts running around.... leaving the pack...

Ending the game with me catching some of them... at that very moment, I wish I had more than 2 hands to carry all of them... Haha...

Up next, Highlights of the night.. Stay tune...

Part 2 - The BBQ & Food

Finally the photos are all here!! Sorry for the delay everyone... It's a super long post with lots of photos! =)

Our BBQ started off with a heavy downpour in the afternoon (*as usual, it always rain on our party!) But No Worries since this is our 4th year having the party! Hee... We were well prepared!

Thankfully it stopped raining around 4pm. For that, I'm thankful.. And once the rain stopped.. My mum couldn't wait and start the fire even thought food hasn't arrived yet.... Hee... Yeah, mothers are always the one worrying for the whole event....

And as the food being contributed by everyone started arriving...

Our "BBQ Squad" is all ready to BBQ for the 100 over family members that's arriving later....

But before that, Lesson #1 by Teacher Jerry on How To BBQ! Hee.... *Teaching my kids from Portugal how to BBQ the Singapore way... =p

Until Carel came and say... Ur fan's are too small... Use mine!

And so.. from 5 sausages, the food grew to a massive big feast catering to 100 over family members using 2 BBQ pit!

The amount of food indoor was even more scary... 2 full tables of food like Bee Hoon, all time fav Curry, sausages, fish balls, chicken wings etc etc...

Tibits are still some of the favourites among our little ones..

While all the parents are BBQ-ing away happily.... Teacher Jerry is off away conducting another lesson for the kids! Stay tune... =D

2008 Children's Day Party!! (Part 1 - Synosis)

WOW! That's the word to describe this year party!

Hee... I have so much to blog about that I'm going to blog in 3 or more parts. So, as you read, take it as though you are watching a movie!

Part 1 is more like a synopsis where a general preview of how much fun we had there. =) And as we move along, there be more. Hee..

Before the show starts, let me say a BIG Thank You to everyone who were present yesterday. It might sound abit formal but I really appreciate each and everyone effort, time and presence over at our party. =)

This year party would not have been such a huge success if any 1 of you were not present. I have more people to thank in the last part also known as the "Credits part". Haha...

But the most important person to thank will be Mervin, our event photographer for the day. Without him, the beautiful memories will not be captured down. Below, are the shots he took for us.

So, sit back and enjoy the show... Hee... If you like his works, feel free to contact him @ 90296681 or e-mail: mervinlee1990@gmail.com

More photos coming up in the next post... Stay tune... =D

It's Today!

Time now is 2.30am... and Teacher Jerry is still preparing for our party... I'm super duper excited! =) This time round, we are expecting @ least 60 guests... *fingers cross....*

I'm so beat out that I havent been blogging for the past week. Rest assure a long post awaits on monday.... =D

For now... This is a sneak preview to what you kids can expect later in the day.. P.R.E.S.E.N.T.S!!!

Looking forward to our party with a big bang! *that includes rains and thunder.... It happens every year doesnt it*? Hmmm.... Let's pray there's no rain today! =p

Love Amplified Concert - Tickets to be given away!

Love Amplified - The First World AIDS Day Concert In Singapore

Thanks to Xavier, part of the team behind the Love Amplified World AIDS Day concert. He gave Teacher Jerry 4 tickets to the concert! =)

However, I cant go... as you know, 30th is our party!!! So, anyone wants to attend this concert? I saw their advertisment and I think its a great concert! Stephine sun will be there too! And you get a free Levi's t-shirt with every tickets purchased!

So, if you wan free tickets, email me Jerrycoaching@yahoo.com or call me 9100 1855! =) Alternatively, if you wish to purchase your own tickets, go to sistic website!

And I'm busy preparing all the party stuff... Yes, that includes your presents... I know, LCD Screen, Plasma Tvs, PSP, DS lite, Bakugan.... these are the things you kids want right.... Well, that's not going to happen... Haha.... *bleahx*

Last year, I still have Teacher Michelle to help me out. But this year, Teacher Jerry is doing everything alone as she's real busy these days.... =(

And that's why I'm super duper busy... Well, fingers cross and let's hope things will turn out great! =D

Teacher Jerry's DreamBoard

I blogged a week ago on dreams.... Today, let me share with you all my dreams... =) These are the goals in my life that keeps Teacher Jerry moving forward. So, get ready as I bring you along for the journey of my dreams.... Hee... Starting from left to right.

Dream #1: I hope to be able to give a motivational speech on the world stage, touching the lives of many others. At the moment, I dunnoe who I'm going to give the speech to. I dunnoe what the topic is going to be about. I dunnoe how I'm going to deliver the speech. But 1 thing I know. It's going to happen. I know I'm going out there to inspire, to motivate and to change someone's life.

I'm trying hard to achieve this dream now by inspiring my kids in their swimming and to motivate them in life. I dunnoe if I have make an impact in their little lives just yet, but I know, they have touched mine.

Dream #2: 1 week dive trip to Maldives. I guess Maldive is a "must go" place for all dive enthusiasts. Staying 24hours by the beach, listening to the waves, watching the fishes swimming directly under you and go out on a dive trip everyday. That's the kind of life I wish to enjoy. I'm a sunny beach boy! Hee...

Well, although I'm no where close to this dream yet, but hey! At least, I'm able to enjoy swimming with all my students... No wonder mummy always ask me: "Why u so happy to go swimming? So dark..." =D

Dream #3: A trip to Bhutan - The happiest country. After so much news and big hu-ha over this country, I'm super interested in going over and take a look @ how the people live there. What makes them so happy? A country where GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) is much more important then their GDP(Gross Domestic Product). This is one country where I can learn more about happiness! Hee =D

Dream #4: I hope to invest in a condo. It's for investing purposes. (I guess they generate more passive income). I'm happy staying in my current HDB flat with my parents. So, I wun be staying in this condo. This condo will be generating a passive income for me every month. Of which, I will use that money to fulfill my Dream #5.

Dream #5: To provide education for orphanges in thailand. After my recent trip to thailand, I saw how simple and hard the thai kids are living in. A young boy at the age 10 is rowing a boat down the river to set up fish nets and fishing hooks. They don't go to school cause they need to catch fishes to sell for money or food for the family. Some days, they dun even catch a single fish.

I hope to be able to provide some basic form of education for them. And that will cost money. So, the passive income from the condo will all go into their education.

Last but not least, I hope my students will be so proud that they are my students and when they see me on street, they will point their little fingers @ me shouting "That's Teacher Jerry! He's my swimming coach!"

Now that I have share my dreams with you, its time for you to share ur dreams with me! Dun be shy about your dreams! Dun be afraid that people will laugh at them. It's your dreams! Go ahead, Dream it! And achieve it! =)

Never too old to learn

Its never too old to learn swimming or as a matter of fact, anything.

Meet my 2 Grandmas... They are my students but as a show of respect for them, I call them Ah ma when I teach them... Go ahead, guess their age.... They are already in their 60's! =)

Ah ma says: "When we were younger, we did not have the chance to learn to swim. Now that our kids are all grown up. We can learn to swim together with our grand-daugthers!"

And little did I realise after 3 lessons with them why my 2 Ah Ma's love swimming so much! (a handsome coach is not the reason why they are learning ok..hee)

They are learning swimming to keep themselves healthy cause they know as age catches up on them, they tend to be more prone to illness.

2ndly, they find that when they come for swimming class, its a way of bonding with their grand-daugthers.. And when they are learning, they are like big stars! Cause on the pool deck, they have 3 daughters and 4 grand-daughters looking at how they are swimming.. Hee..

So no more excuses for you not to learn to swim... If a granny @ age 60 is starting to pick up swimming... What about you? Hee...

The Last Lecture

School holiday has started! Children, don't forget to make use of this time to enrich yourself too k? Let Teacher Jerry introduce you to a very inspiring book - The Last Lecture.

This book is about how the author Randy Pausch, a computer science professor at Carnegie Mellon, was asked to give such a lecture, he didn’t have to imagine it as his last, since he had recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer. '

But the lecture he gave—“Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams”—wasn’t about dying. It was about the importance of overcoming obstacles, of enabling the dreams of others, of seizing every moment (because “time is all you have...and you may find one day that you have less than you think”). It was a summation of everything Randy had come to believe. It was about living.

This is one good book that I would strongly recommend to everyone. After reading this book, you will start thinking about your dreams. Your childhood dreams. And you are more then welcome to share them with me if you don't mind! Of course, I will share mine with you too! =)

In case, you wish to have a preview before buying the books, check out his speech on the Oprah Winfrey Show. You will be inspired. Very inspired.

不凡的爱 - By my Side

Have you guys been watching this show 不凡的爱 - By my Side every weekday @ 9pm on Channel 8? Chen Han Wei & Zoe Tay are the main leads.

Ya, its about how a good hubby/daddy(played by Chen Han Wei) who gave in to temptation for once and was diagnosed with AIDS. Zoe Tay decided to stand by him. But their 7 year old daughter faces discrimination from peers and others. Which eventually lead her to find a new swimming coach as her current coach faces too many complaints from parents.

Overall, Teacher Jerry thinks it's a good show with very educational plot. After all, I get the chance to talk to Chen Han Wei & Zoe Tay. =)

There is also a World Aids Day Concert. Click here to find out more. And there u go... The most precious photo. A photo with Chen Han Wei... =p

The "swimming coach" in the show & the Swimming coach in real life.
*realised how short Teacher Jerry is as compare to him?* =p

CJC students - A day for Charity

If you are reading my blog now, it meant 2 things.

#1: You are a student of Teacher Jerry or at least know who I am.

#2: You saw a flyer on your doorstep recently and decided to check out my blog out of curiosity.

If you belong to the 2nd catalogue, I thank you. Why? Because the hard work of the students from Catholic Junior College has been recognised.

It all started 1 day when my phone rang: "Hi, We are a class of 22 students from Catholic Junior College, wanting to raise some funds for a charity program. We wonder if we could be of any help to you?"

I asked: "How much do you guys need?"
Student: "We need about $700 to build a roof top for an orphanage home in Batam. We hope we can raise that amount of money."

And so there it was... I printed out some flyers for them to distribute. But, they are still short of the money. Apparently, they need to do some flooring's for the home too and it's going to cost them about $2,500 now.

These students have been really hardworking I must admit. We met up at 10am in the morning and they only finish distributing at about 8pm plus. I'm touched by their efforts seriously.

So, here's my plan. Remember, my holiday intensive swimming lessons is $80/ 8 lessons? (*its already dirt cheap) For those who sign up for the class at Yio Chu Kang for the 9am and 11am slot, I will donate half the amount to them to help them rebuild the orphanage house in Batam. =)

My efforts alone are of course minimal. You can help too! If you wish to help, you may call me @ 9100 1855 or email me Jerrycoaching@yahoo.com to find out more at the moment. I will also check with the Student in Charge if they are willing to accept outside funds.

Now, just to side track abit... I seriously think I look young and fit in really well into a JC 1 class photo... Can you spot Teacher Jerry in the photo? hee...

P.s: There is 19 students and 2 teachers in the photo. Cant tell right! =D

If you are staying in Ang Mo Kio or Yio Chu Kang

Dear all...

If you are staying in Ang Mo Kio or Yio Chu Kang, you will receive a flyer with Teacher Jerry name. The flyer should be at your door step. Do not throw it away, its for charity. More details will be updated tonite... Cheers for charity!

Nick Vujicic - A true inspiration

He's name is Nick Vujicic from Australia. He was born without limbs. But he proved to us that nothing is impossible.

At age 25, he completed a Bachelor’s Degree in both Financial Planning and Accounting. How is that possible? And what is even more amazing is that he's able to swim! Very lucky, I was able to attend his talk today at Heart of God Church. Now, I'm a free thinker, so I won't go into details about religion as its too sensitive a topic. And I respect all religions.

What I would like to share is about his talk. What we can learn from him. When I 1st saw him, I look at my own limbs and I'm so thankful that I have them. Can you imagine yourself without them? How would you look at your life? He's such a strong man who despite his disability, he's still able to fight hard to live on. Just a quote from him, " Fear, is the greatest disability of all"

Below is a clip on his talk. I hope you all can find some inspirational thoughts. If you are a christian, you should be able to link well.

If you are not, it totally doesnt matter at all. Look from a different perspective like Teacher Jerry. Look at how he lives his life. Look at how he fights everyday as thought its a last day. Look at how he turns his life without limbs to life without limits.

I was touched when he say " I didn't see a future. I didn't see a future or hope. I never thought I would get married. Even if I get married, I can't even hold my wife hand. I won't be able to dance with my bride on our wedding night. When we have children, how am I going to put my arms around my kids when they cry? These were important to me."

After tonight talk by him, I'm thankful and grateful.

Henry's Back!

Know who is he? He's Henry! And he's back in Singapore!

1 year ago (the post is here), he went back Saigon.. And this week, he's back in Singapore! Hee... Guess you can tell from the photo that our relationship didn't change much.. In fact, it only got better! Dun you think we look so alike? Esp our smiles and that pair of small eyes? Hee...

Alright, I must admit, somehow this photo makes me look younger... Haha..

Before he went back Saigon this time round, I took some photos of this dear boy... And the shots come out pretty nice and "professional"! I guess, I have the makings of a good photographer yeah?

So... Enjoy the photos and have a nice weekend =)

14th intake for Holiday Swimming Intensive Lessons

14th Intake for December Holiday Swimming Intensive Program is now open for registration!

This time round.. I did a little something special... Take a look at the video! It's made by Teacher Jerry... I was feeling so excited when I was doing this.. Hee...

Now, here are the full details...

Location #1: Yio Chu Kang Swimming Complex
Day: Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday
Time: 9am, 10am, 11am, 4pm, 5pm
Commencing on: 17 Nov 2008
Vacancies: 10 students per time slot
Price: $80 for 8 lessons
Coaches: Teacher Jerry & Teacher Rae

Location #2: Seng Kang Swimming Complex
Day: Every Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday
Time: 9am, 10am, 11am, 4pm, 5pm
Commencing on: 18 Nov 2008
Vacancies: 10 students per time slot
Price: $80 for 8 lessons
Coaches: Teacher Jerry & Teacher Rae

For more enquires, do not hesitate to contact me @ 9100 1855 or email me Jerrycoaching@yahoo.com =)

You are Invited!!

Yes Children!! Everything is confirm... =) Today I will start giving out the invitations... Do remember to tell me how many people will be attending ok!

For those who are not Teacher Rae, Teacher Michelle or my students... We will still invite u! But invitations are not being open yet... Because.. we are expecting huge crowd this year... Don't worry.. We will still invite u! =)

The Day we went cable ski!

All right, this is a super out dated post... We went to batam for our cable ski on 9th Aug... National Day! You will be surprised to see how good Teacher Jerry is with cable ski~ Scroll for the photos... I can only say, I love water too much!

The brothers getting ready to conquer the waves....

First up... Teacher Jerry~!

Here I go...........

Now you see me...

Now You don't! =p

Haha.... I had a good laugh when I look at these photos... I hope you are laughing too! Hee.... Fact is, Teacher Rae ski much better then me... So, yeah... Next time, maybe next time if we have the chance to go Batam again, I might be able to ski as well too....

Oh, did I mention, I tried like 50 over times that day just to ski? End of the day... I decided to just hug on to my dear board... Hopping that I doesnt make me fall... But, I guess that doesnt help much... Hee.. =) *SMILE*

Nassa Silver Test - 2008

Dear Students... Please check your name and test date for the upcoming Silver Test. All test venues are at Yio Chu Kang Swimming Complex.

22/11/2008 (Sat) - 12 noon
Samatha

30/11/2008 (Sun) - 11am
Nicholas Wan
Eben
Darren Goh
Aloysious Tham
Juin Jieg
Ang Jie
Chan Yinh
Wei Jie
Wan Li
Jun Yi

30/11/2008 (Sun) - 12 noon
Phyllis
Sherry
Pei wen
Beatrice
Megan
Benjamin
Jun Hui
Theng Yong
Jeanette
Yvonne
Randall
Shanice
Kai Sheng
Elaine
Norman

Good luck kids! Remember... 2 laps, 4mins.... 4 mins 01 sec touch the wall also cannot... =)

P.s: A surprise awaits you on 30 Nov...

Headache...

Its been a tough and headache week... I barely have time to blog... Thankful I'm able to blog now before my next class starts...

Alright, so here are the updates... Teacher Jerry is choosing between 2 locations for our party...

Location #1: Big area for us to play, enough chairs, but there is no shelter... So, if it rains (like every year) we have no area to hide. The nearest shelter is like 1km away?

Location #2: Big area but location #1 is much better... Chairs are a problem. But there's aircon, plasma tv, fridge, most importantly - shelter!

So which one do you kids want? Hmmm...

I've been spending my whole week over at east coast park searching for the ideal location... (Ooops, 1 secret has been revailed) And in between location #1 & #2 is like 8km? Imagine me walking here and there... Haha... All for u! =p

Guess I got to decide faster... Any suggestions? =D

Kebun Baru CC Swimming Class!

These are the kids from Kebun Baru CC!! 2 different groups of them... And I guess I taught them more than swimming!

Did you see one of them doing upside down in water? That's our dear Jonathon...

The fun part about teaching these kids is that they come from different backgrounds of swimming... Some are afraid of water, some are so mischievous that they climb on ur back, some are so brave that they demand every lessons I bring them to the deep pool while there are those who are so shy...

As a People Association(PA) Trainer, I'm glad that all of them are actually able to mix well with each other and becoming friends within a few lessons! Guess, I'm doing my job pretty well there... Hee...

Now, when the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words... I shall let 2 thousand words talk about enjoyment of swimming class with their dearest Teacher Jerry! =D

Coaching these kids are simply lovely esp when there are water phobia students in the class during the 1st lesson & on the last lesson they are able to go to the deep pool and swim. =)

Whats' even more rewarding is when the mum comes to me and say "我好感动!" which means she's touched... Touched by the fate that she's able to see how her son grows and learn.. From his fear of water to a boy who's rather confident in the deep pool. =)

Happy Children's Day!!

Happy Children's Day to everyone & Selamat Hari Raya to all our muslim friends!

As promised, this year party will still be held.. I'm still in the midst of preparing for it... So, stay tune alrite! =D

A couple of updates... Specially for my kids

Update #1:
Some of my students are complaining that I m not updating my blog.... *You know who u are...*

As a matter of fact, I'm so busy editing the photos we took last night... Next post, the next post will be about you guys already... Dun worry... *bleahz*

Update #2:
And there are kids asking me about our children day party this year.... Sad to say, I'm planning to postpone this year party to a later date. Reasons are as follow...

#1: Most of you are having your PSLE now... after which are P1 to P5 final year exams. Having a party at this time is not such a good idea. That's what Teacher Jerry feels... Your academic exams are much more important! Study hard!

#2: With the recent China Melamine incident, alot of food are in doubt now. So, we wun be able to feast like how we feast in the past. So, why not wait for a few months till the all green light is given? =D

I promise you all, our annual party will still be held this year. It will only gets bigger and better!

How about this... Those who get good grades in your exam this year, will get a special surprise from Teacher Jerry! *Must show me your results slips ar....*

Update #3:
Now for an update of myslf, I registered myself for Taipei ING Marathon 2008... Now, I'm looking for sponsors to fly me there! Anyone willing to sponsor me to Taipei? Any advertiser? Hee...

Mr. Children/ Mr. Adult

I received 2 emails recently.... Sometimes, its emails like these which just touches your heart....

The 1st email wrote:
"Hi Cher! I'm now a student teacher @ NIE. I love children! Thank you. It was after reading your blog that motivates me to become a teacher."

The 2nd email says:
"Jerry, I recently took part in the Nike Human Race 10km. I'm proud that I completed it. My next event will be a half marathon in December and next year, I hope to be able to run a full marathon. I never like running but after reading your blog, I'm so motivated to run. Thank you!"

Somewhere, someone out there reading my blog or being coach by me is motivated & inspired by me. It feels special to know that I'm making a difference in someone life. =)

If you have a dream, go for it. Chase that dream.

You might have a childhood dream not yet fulfilled & now being @ a different stage in life, you think it's not achievable. That's what alot of us think. I would say, GO for your dreams!

No dreams are too old to fulfill. I have students of all ages learning to swim with me. When it comes to swimming, no age is too old to swim. Same thing goes for singing.

Today, allow me to share a very touching video with you. It's called －くるみ by Mr.Children. You might cry after viewing it. You might not cry. It doesn't matter. It touches me when I 1st view it. And I think its portrays a very meaningful view on chasing your dreams despite the odds.

About this video: It's in Japanese. But it doesn't matter because by looking at the video, you will understand how these 4 men try to fulfill their singing dreams despite having alot of commitments in work and family. They went against all odds just to fulfill this dreams of theirs. And you know it's been a long time to achieve this dream when they choose the name Mr. Adult instead of Mr.Children. This video touches me. I hope it touches you too. =)

Ice breaking workshop by Michael Podolinsky

I always believe in constant upgrading yourself. So, when People's Association told me there was an Ice-Breaker Workshop conducted by Master Trainer Michael Podolinsky for us as STAR trainers. I was excited!

I must admit, I never heard of him before and I'm not sure what he does. But a google search on him on his website.. http://www.michaelpodolinsky.com/ It just gets me so excited!

He's really a funny and interesting guy who can interact with the whole class within mins! And that's the point of the workshop today! To Ice-Break! Cool.. now I have a new skill.. I can ice break people! =D

I have learn so much that I can't wait to share!
Thank you PA!

The day Teacher Jerry becomes a Small star

Yes, as some of you have known... Teacher Jerry was involved in a scene shot today for one of the new drama that's coming up soon for Mediacorp Channel 8... I think I'm not allowed to reveal the title until its officially finish filming...

But I think I can tell you who the main actors and actress are... So hold your breath... Chen Han Wei & Zoe Tay! Yes! I saw both of them today... And I even had a 5 mins chat with both of them! Cool right...

After the chat today, I think Zoe Tay really has the "Ah Jie" feel... She's so good in her acting! And she's so pretty! Chen Han Wei was such a nice guy to chat with... He even commented on my "Panda eyes" =D And of course, I really think he's so handsome...

Well... I had a great photo soot with Chen Han Wei, but I don't think I will post it up here because I was too excited in the shooting that I forgot to ask his permission to post his photo on my blog... Hee... But, it was a great shot with a very handsome guy!

Well, back to the filming... It began @ 2pm and lasted all the way to 6.30pm.... 4.5hrs of filming... And I'll be very lucky if I can appear for more than 1 sec on the screen.. Hee....

You see...They have this very very handsome "Actor swimming coach" for the drama, so I'm suppose to be in the water together with him and take care of the kids learning how to swim...

Of course, the main focus is on him and the kids... I'm just there to make sure these kids can swim and to guide our Mr Swimming coach to teach... Another reason was the director feels that I look too real as a swimming coach to appear on camera! =(

It was such a hot and fun day! Of course, I took a photo with Mr Swimming coach too! I promise you all.. I will let you all know the title once they start advertising it! =D

For now, I'm just happy that I feel like a small star for the day...

Betty Secondary School

As promised... I'm blogging again.. See! Nowadays, I'm blogging much more than usual right! Haha..

These are the Secondary 1 kids from Betty Secondary School... & they are already swimming freestyle by the 4th lesson... Great kids!

I think they just get so crazy over swimming or is it over me? Lolx...

Boys will always be boys.... This is the 1st shot we took, and they say... "How come cannot see me!? How come I got blocked?!"

So, we went for a 2nd shot... and they push me out of the photo! Haha... Ok, there are suppose to be 10 of them, so u can see who are those really "photograph lovers" =p

Luckily, the gers are much more nicer... haha...

Well, what can I say about them? They are such a bunch of lovely kids.... Too bad, I had to leave them for my reservist before their lessons are officially finished.

Hope to see you kids soon!

I'm back in Singapore!

Yes, I'm back in Singapore!! Coming home is such a warm feeling... Nothing beats being back at home compared to staying overseas....

Being away for 23days is really a long time... I missed so much things.

I miss Swimming
I miss my students
( I dreamt the whole lot of you all on my 2nd night there and I woke up in the middle of the night, trying to figure out where I was. Ended up, I was in my bunk.)
I miss my family
( I call back every night to Daddy & Mummy. Every weekend to Teacher Michelle & Teacher Rae to ask about my students)
I miss the weather here
( It was so hot there that I drank more than 4liters of water everyday and bath more than 5 times a day if it was possible)
I missed my student silver test
I missed my student selection for his school swim team

Well, now that I'm back safe & sound, its back to swimming again! The 1st thing I did when I return home was to jump into the Swimming pool and swam 30 laps.

The adrenaline rush, the glide of the body in water, the warmth of the pool, the bubble sound in the water and every strokes I pull... I almost cry... The feeling is like... You only learn to treasure something after you lost it.

Now.. 2 piece of good news...

Firstly, my 2 darling students Pei Yi & Aloysius have pass their silver test despite me not being here... Thanks Teacher Rae for being there. Well done kids!

Secondly, I'm proud to announce 1 of my student, Ansh has make it into his School Swim Team!

Now, that's something to be really proud of! Ansh started swimming with me in 2007 August. I still remember I wrote,

When a passion student + a passion coach = Miracles!

This miracle has come true 1 year later.. @ the age of 7, he has make it into the prestigious OVERSEAS FAMILY SCHOOL swim team. Well done Ansh! Proud of you! =D

I have a lot of back dated post that I'm suppose to blog about.. Hopefully, over the next few days I'm able to blog about them! Stay tune!!

Blogging from Thailand!

Hello everyone! Yes, believe your eyes... Teacher Jerry is blogging from thailand!

Weather here has been hot all weeks since I came here... reaching a high of 40 degrees... Yes, imagine how many liters of water goes down my throat in just 1 day...

I've been training hard too... well, in short, I'm fine & still healthy... Yuppie...

Got to keep my post short as I'm rushing for dinner.. And its another week of training before I will return back to Singapore on 7th Sep...

I miss all my students... I even dreamt about you all! Hee... Shall talk about it when I'm back in Singapore...

And guess wat?! Today is Teacher's Day right? So, here's wishing all teachers a very Happy Teacher Day!

Now.. It's back to training for me.. See ya kids around k! Take care of yourself! =)

P/s: I'm missing you all as much as you all are missing me!!

Swimming Homework.... Surprise! =D

Dear students,

Homework for the next 2 weeks.. Take some time to look @ Beijing Olympics 2008 Swimming events and look at how the world class swimmers swim =D

If you see or hear this name - Michael Phelps, DON'T Miss his events k!
He's aiming for 8 gold olympics this time round, so we will have alot to learn from him.

Here's a guide to Channel 5 broadcasting of swimming events
http://olympics.mediacorptv.sg/tvschedule_list.php

It will help you improve on your swimming and strokings.... If you have any questions, can always ask Teacher Jerry on your next lesson... Important thing is.. You must watch the events alright!

P/s: Dear Parents, do allow some time to let the kids watch the Olympics... It doesnt have to be swimming events...Can be any sporting events! It will really help them in understanding sports better... =)

For now, I'm glued to Channel 5... =p

Duties of representing the nation

Have not been updating this blog for 2 reasons.

#1: Teacher Jerry is super busy preparing for this departure to Beijing Olympics 2008... =)
#2: Teacher Jerry is making sure that all swimming lessons are not affect when I'm not around

Teacher Jerry receive this news a few months ago....

I'm requried to represent Singapore for a period of 23 days from 18/8/2008 to 9/9/2008 in all the swimming events during Beijing Olympics 2008... Ok, I know... Jaws are dropping now and I feel a sense of surprises and excitment.

Alright, I'm still representing Singapore thought during that period, just that its not China I'm heading to but Thailand.

Yes, you guess it - Reservist Training.

Hey, its still representing Singapore alright! And the part about swimming is true too.

Your Teacher Jerry is going there as a lifeguard, which means I'm going to be in charge of thousands of lives during their swimming river crossing activites. Hopefully, those guys are not going to swim in Mekong River.. =p

Also, during my absence, Teacher Michelle & Teacher Rae will be taking over most of my classes. I'm going to so miss my classes and kids....

Teacher Rae, Teacher Michelle, Teacher Jerry

Introducing The Water Family latest 2 new coaches!!!!

Teacher Rae!

Teacher Rae is my younger brother.. Hee... He will be in charge of all Lifesaving courses and swimming lessons.

Teacher Michelle!

Teacher Michelle is a very very good friend of Teacher Jerry. She will be in charge of all swimming lessons for both children and adult. Oh! She's also a Piano teacher =)

So, in now, The Water Family has 3 family members who are coaches... Teacher Rae, Teacher Michelle and Teacher Jerry =D

1 thing to note, all 3 of us are QUALIFIED Coaches with the Singapore Sports Council. A write up on Teacher Rae and Teacher Michelle will be up soon...For now...Enjoy the photos that we took! Hee...

We took this photo out of pure fun.. We just wanna see who could jump the highest... I guess the winner is pretty obvious... =D

The 3 coaches of The Water Family...

We took alot of "NG" photos before we could capture this photo nicely.. Haha... It's so difficult to capture our expressions underwater... We came up with a conclusion... No bubbles if we wanted to capture our smiles!

A close up of your 2 handsome handsome and 1 pretty pretty coach =D

Teacher Michelle said our back views were too nice that the camera couldn't resist taking us =p

And lastly.... We did something very special that no one has ever done b4... Yes, No one has done this before and we 3 are the 1st in the world to do it... It took us just 1 take. And we did it before the camera battery goes flat... =D

We did butterfly strokes & the difficult part was in our timing and the synchronizing of our strokes together... But we did it together! A beautiful beginning... =)

M&N (not M&M chocolates)

I promised my 2 boys to post their photos on my blog.....

So here we go.... Matthew & Nicholas! My M&N.... Hee....

Matthew is the "Kor Kor" & Nicholas is the "Didi" but when Teacher Jerry is around... I naturally become the "Kor Kor", also known as the Big Brother!

I simply love the 1st pic! Cause it looks so "brotherly"! We fit in so well... Haha....

This is going to be a such a short post because the photos have say everything. I like the way Matthew hugs his brother.... Giving Nicholas such security in his arms...

And me, I can safety leave Nicholas in his arms.. For well... Just 5 seconds... Hee

Happy 24th Birthday!

It's 14 July! A special date for Teacher Jerry because... its my BIRTHDAY! Its the day I turn 24.... Yes I know, 1 year older... =)

Firstly, I like to thank everyone who send me Happy Birthday wishes in all form.... be it a simple sms, MSN, email or even wishing me in person... Thank you! I know I'm being loved by all of u! Haha.... =p

Good news often happen on your b`day doesn't it? Today Oliva mummy - Shirley said this to me.... "It's a shame that we get to know you so late Jerry"

Oliva is 4 years old this year & she's been swimming in Hong Kong for the past 1-2years I guess. Today was her 2nd lesson with me and she's able to swim! Both her mummy n me are so suprised!

Shirley: "Woah, that was very impressive Jerry. Today is only the second lesson."
Me: "No, its not me. It's the talent of Oliva. She's really clever. Show her once and she will be able to do it! She just need more confident"

I feel so happy! It just so exciting to see a 4year old swimming!

Mummy wants her to be able to swim by next month, the month where they will be going back to Hong Kong. I really wish we can meet her expectations! I'm quite confident tot... =D

Good news always come in pairs! There's 1 more good news that I will revel in the next couple of days.. So stay tune...

P/s: My birthday cake this year for my 24th year old was a D24 durian cake... yum yum.. 2424 Nice number!

Astro Boy!!

Introducing to you... my new super hero in my class.... ASTRO BOY!

See the resemblence between Jun Jieg & Astro boy... No joke! When he came to me after lesson while fixing his hair and say...

"Jerry you see.." 1st tot that came into my mind was astro boy!

Cool... I'm going to have a SuperHero swimming class very soon I guess.... With Ultraman, Spiderman, Ironman and Astroboy in the team already.

The search for Superman, Batman, The Hulk & all other SuperHero begins.... So, if you think you have a child who looks like a superhero, send them to my class quick! Then I can take a SuperHero class photo!!

Happy Youth Day to everyone!

Happy Youth Day to everyone!!!

Cheers~ =D Enjoy ur holidays!

The day the doc says to Teacher Jerry...

Jerry: "Doc, I feel a slight pain on my left knee when I run these days."

Doc: "Given ur training programs, you might have some mild cartilage overload over the left lateral joint compartment and lateral femoral condyle(in layman term, it simply means I have overstress my knees). Tell you what, I'm going to take you off from Running for the next 2-4months."

That means, no more running for me for the next 2-4months..... =(
That means, no more triathlon training for me for the next 2-4months.... =(
That means, I might have to withdraw from Aviva Ironman 70.3 this year.... =(
That means, more swimming and more swimming and more swimming... =)

Jerry's Believe it or not

Yes, as the title says.... Its up to you to believe it or not.....

1st up, do u believe a white tiger exists? YES!

How about, a white LION? YES!

We took a short trip up to genting over the weekends and we were so lucky!

Imagine this... we got
FREE accomodations @ Highland hotel,
FREE Buffet dinner & breakfast and
FREE tickets to watch DREAMZ!

And thats where we we managed to saw the white tiger and white lion! So, do u believe it? Hee...

I guess the lion was too fierce thats why we could only took photos with it while its in its cage. Notice the space between me and the lion? That was where the trainer should be standing! But he last min ran away.. Hee...

P.s: Thanks for all the concern about me and the letter... I'm handling it pretty well... I will let you guys know once I have make the neccesary arrangements =)

The letter that came too fast

Recieved a letter.... A letter that I didnt expect it so soon..... Its not a "good" letter or "happy" letter tot.... Haiz.....

Shall update you all again....

Now, let me adjust my mood and make arrangements....

IPPT (Individual Physical Proficiency Test)

Went for my 1st IPPT ever since I ORD from army.... Well, IPPT is something all men (under 45) must go for annually.

I was really impressed by the fully computerise IPPT system.. It's so accurate and you actually know your results and points right on the spot!

And I'm proud to present..... I got Silver! =D

Results:
Sit Up: 38 (4 pts)
Standing Broad Jump: 225cm (3 pts)
Chin Up: 8 (3 pts)
Shuttle Run:10Sec (5 pts)
2.4km: 10:56min (4pts)

Total: 19 pts = Silver

Shall aim for gold next year.... gotta put in lots and lots of efforts tot.... =D But for now, I'm happy with my award.... =p

NASSA Bronze test on 27 July 2008

Dear parents and students, below are the confirmed names for the next bronze test which will be held on 27 July 2008 (Sunday) @ 12noon Yio Chu Kang Swimming Complex

01.Isaac
02.Germaine
03.Isabelle
04.Shanice
05.Phyllis
06.Alec
07.Brent
08.Theng Yong
09.Sherry
10.Tyana
11.Samuel
12.Benjamin
13.Jeanette
14.Elaine
15.Megan
16.Afandy

Jiayou Children and good luck for your test! =D

Sundown Marathon - 7hrs 48mins

It happened!

The 1st sundown marathon in singapore. The 1st marathon that happen during the night time.

The 1st marathon that I took part in with my dearst Peter Pan cousin (no kidding! he's Peter Pan!), dearest Alexandra the great friend and my special her. =p

My aim for this marathon was 4hrs30mins.

Here's the breakdown for my 42km:

Start - 10km: 1hr 01mins
10km - 20km: 1hr 08mins
20km - 30km: 2hr 53mins
30km - finish: 2hr 49mins

As you can see, after my 20km, my timing seems to gone crazy...

Well, there's a reason for that...

While running till 20km, questions came into my mind.

"Why am I running?" "So what if I can completed this race?" "Will it be meaningful if I complete this race alone?" "Am I going to leave her behind?"

Then, I decided, I should wait for her. After all, I was the one who asked her to take part in her 1st marathon. I should complete this race together with her. It's going to be so much more meaningful when we cross the finishing line together.

And yes, I decided to wait for her and walked the rest of the journey together with her and cross the finishing line together with her.... Encouraging and supporting her along the way and be there for her when she decided to give up. I'm glad I was there, else she will definately give up.

Along the way (somewhere around 28km), we met an old man in his 70's. This was going to be his 10th marathon race.

Me: "Woah, Uncle... You very fit, you are walking as fast as us"
Uncle: "This is my 10th race"
Me: "Woah, Uncle, I respect you... Your knees not hurting?"
Uncle: "Hurt, but that's life. If you give up because of small pain or setbacks, you will never succed in life. So, don't think of the pain"
Both of us (beginning to walk faster): "Thank you for your encouragement!"

I enjoyed and learn alot from this race but if you ask me if I'm gonna run another marathon in the night. My answer will be No. Haha... simply because I think night time is the time for you to sleep and not to exercise. I think this was a crazy race!

Next race: Singapore Aviva Ironman 70.3
Pending races: Hong Kong Osim Triathlon
Taipei International Marathon

Sundown Marathon

In less than 24hrs, I will be taking part in Singapore first ever Night marathon - Addidas Sundown Marathon

I must admit, due to the heavy workload for the past months, I didnt have much time to train for this race... So, fingers crossed and hope that I can complete this race....

Like I always say, timings are not important, enjoying the process is more important!

Race starts @ 12midnight on 1st June.

More updates coming up.... =D For now, its 4221!

P/s: A Nike shirt going for a Addidas Sundown Marathon, what a nice combination!

Last day (Part 2)

Alright... As promised... Here are the photos...

Not alot tot... But they are the memories that I will remember for the rest of my life..

This was taken after Mayflower Sports Day ended with the student helpers. I was involved in timekeeping. Managing the time keepers and liasing with the finishing judges and video recording of the race. I had so much fun!

My 3B & 3C students from my physics class. Taught 14 of them physics during my 2 months in Mayflower Secondary. It was fun, really fun! Especially those times where we debated over "density of liquids and hydrometer". Then again, Science should be fun!

Some farewell presents from the students.
- 1 ultraman
-1 small bottle of pebbles and stones
-6 notes
-Thousands of cranes with well wishings on it

Now lets see what they wrote for me on those notes:

Note #1: Mr Toh, 再见了！must rmb us kayys!!! Next time if you got time, come back & find us la! 3D will always rmb you de!!! XinZhi

Note #2: Rmb us arhhs. dun forget!! Rmb the weeks of 2.4 =D hehe. anyways. bye.have fun. Bye. thanks for teaching us =) PeiShi

Note #3: Hi Friend, Haha. Although I did not know you for long, thanks for helping me pass my 2.4run. Thanks! K. Hong Wei

Note #4: Hello Jerry... Jing Wen here..ur student..Long time no see until you appear at our school.. very surprised that you are here and I am very happy too.. A very good teacher you are.. The Best Eva Teacher I ever seen in the school.. PE teacher too.. I am going 2 miss you when leave the school.. Losing a good, cool, kind teacher and can't teach our school le.. I really dun want you 2 leave but you need 2.. Time flies so fast... and you will gone..unable 2 see you often.. Is good to know you and meet you.. A very Good coach, teacher, friend.. THANK YOU VERY MUCH BEING MY COACH and since you are not my teacher but I treat you as my TEACHER... Taking Care.. including Me... stuffs and lots bahs.. Just want to thank you being a very great, wonderful teacher... I will always REMEMBER YOU!! =) stay Cool and you will be the BEST, WONDERFUL, GREAT teacher and COACH 4eva!!GOOD BYE MY COACH AND TEACHER =) =D Smile Always!! ALL the Best!! JIA YOUS!! A ultraman 4 you makes you super-power and stay strong!! and Hope you see it and will REMEMBER ME!! Hope you like it! Take Care! JingWen, Your student

Note #5: a bit introduction of jERRY... the ironman
Who is he??
I will tell you...NOW!
- He is A super teacher, coach...!! THE BEST TEACHER EVER
- He has SUPER-POWER OF SUPERHEROS..!!
SUPERHEROS OF...
BATMAN
SPIDERMAN
SUPERMAN
ULTRAMAN

Last but not least.. He is 1 and only Ironman-to-be Jerry and he will be!! Ironman Jerry Toh!! =D Xiaowugui...

Note #6: Pss... Mr Toh.. There's 2 special cranes inside. Each cranes have a little well wishing on it. Try finding One's green, One's orange.. BYe BYe >.<>

I really must thank everyone in Mayflower. Because of each and everyone of you, I have learn so much... Thank You!

I will keep the Mayflower shirt with care and it will always be in my heart....

P/s: Once a pegasus, always a pegasus. 2005 BMT, I was from Pegasus company. 2007 Mayflower, I'm in Pegasus house. =D I'm a pegasus!

National Family Celebrations 2008

In Conjunction with National Family Celebrations 2008,
Members of the public can enjoy free entry into all of Singapore Sports Council's 23 swimming pools on Sunday, 1 June 2008, from 8.00am to 9.00pm

So... bring your friends and family down to the swimming pool for a day of fun and free entry! =D

Source: Singapore Sports Council

Last day ( Part 1)

Warning: It's a super duper long entry that I will divide my entry into 2 parts

Part 1: My thoughts
Part 2: Photos!

Today is the last day of school... It marks the start of the June holidays. It also marks my last day in school.

2 months is gone in such a quick flash.... Before I even realised it, today is the last day being a relief teacher for Term 2.

My HOD asked me to stay for 1 more term... But I can't give him an answer yet as I have other commitments....

Though its just a short 2 months, I have learned so much... that I can summarise into 1 sentence. "What I have learn in Mayflower secondary for the past 2 months is much more than what I have learn in my swimming coaching for 2 years."

And when they say, being a teacher is a very challenging job as you are exposed to different challenges everyday. I truly agree with that! =D Students come up with different excuses and reasons everyday just to escape from 1 thing or another.... And at times, I cant help but laugh. ( I was like them, few years back) =D

For the past 2 months, I have learnt:

1. Better class management
2. How to manage big groups of students (from 40 - 300 students)
3. How to better organize myself
4. How to present my ideas to students
5. How to control the temper of students
6. How to talk to students in groups
7. How to talk to students privately
8. How to work as a team with the PE department
9. How to make advance plannings
10. How to encourage students
11. How to motivate students
12. How to help students lose weight
13. How to bond with students
14. How to make students want to listen to you
15. What kind of teachers students look for
16. The importance of setting a role model for student as a teacher
17. How to interact students together
18. How to work under pressure and stress
19. The importance of a simple smile
20. So much more that it can't simply be put into words....

At times, when I look back... I think I have such an affiliation with Mayflower.

In may 2007, I taught some of the girls swimming, during their learn to swim programs. In April 2008, I became their relief teacher for PE and for some, physics.

The joy of seeing them in school is unexplainable and esp, when I see my very own students in school... Coming up to me and call me... Teacher Jerry!

I am going to miss the school and the students so much... that I can list them down:

I'm going to miss:

1. The daily flag raising, singing of national anthem, school song and the pledge
2. The basketball and soccer games I have with the students during their recess
3. Students greeting me in all sorts: " Good morning, Mr. Toh", "Teacher Jerry", "Mr. Jerry" , "cher, cher" and the more popular "Tom & Jerry!"
4. Running 2.4 km with the students during their PE lessons and encouraging them along the way
5. Checking the weight of the Fun & Fitness club students and share their joy when they lose weight
6. Teaching Physical Education and Physics
7. Debating with my students over a physics question on who's right.
8. All the smiles and laughter I hear everyday during my lessons and games
9. Blowing my whistle to gather all the students
10. Students laughing at my white panda eyes every Monday ( due to prolong eyeshades under the sun on sat & sun)
11. The school, the students, the department and so much more......

I must admit, I had tons of funs teaching in Mayflower! I would love to stay but that really depends on my schedule and commitments.

I am very fortunate and honoured to be involved in alot of events for the 2 months such as:
- Mayflower Sports Day
- Tester for Napfa Test
- Invigilator for their mid year exams

I learnt so much thru these events that it help me grow alot...

Coming up.. Part 2!

My Height and Weight

Was measuring the height and weight for my students in school the other day... And I decided to take a brave decision to try out mine too...

So, here's the results...

Haha... I simply love this comic! Seriously, my results are
Height : 1.67m
Weight: 64Kg
BMI: 22.9

According to the program by the computer, I need to lose another 0.2Kg to achieve my ideal weight... And I shall work hard on that... haha...

12th Intake for Intensive Swimming Lesson

Good news comes with good bargains! =D

12th Intake for Intensive Swimming Lessons during the june holidays is now open for registration!

Day: Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday
Time: 9am for beginners, 10am for advanced swimmers
Commencing on: 2nd June 2008
Venue: Yio Chu Kang Swimming Complex
Vacancies:10 slots only
Age limit: Any age from 7 years on onwards
Price: $50 for 5 lessons (It's a steal!)

For more information, do contact me - Jerry @ 9100 1855!

Ironman or Spiderman?

My students are always full of surprises, mischief and creativity! A simple swimming cap and yet, he can turn it into a "costume"

This kept me laughing for 10mins! Haha..... Hope this photo keep you entertained to enjoy your weekends!

In case you need a comparison between Ironman or spiderman, here are their photos!

Enjoy your weekends and be sure to catch Ironman! =D

Congratulations kids!

For the very 1st time, I send in a total of 20 students for their bronze test! 1 slot of test accomodates a maximum of 20 students only. So, this morning, the whole group of candidates were all my students! I'm so proud of each and everyone of you! =D

But, if you look @ the photo carefully, there are only 19 of them.. Alvin is missing in this family photoshoot! So, Teacher Jerry shall make it up for the 2oth candidate then! I'm really happy for all of you who took the bronze test today.

Most of you have been with me for just 2months - 6months and you are already taking your bronze test! That's fast! Considering most children take their bronze test in 9months - 1 year.

Now, let the photos do the talking... =D

A short briefing by the tester

And off we go! - 50meters in pyjamas

Next up! Straddle jump for our "drown-proof"

1min of "drown-proof"

3mins of treading water

Making of our floats..

Happy faces after our 400m (8 x 50m) swim

Congratulations to all of you! You have make your parents and those who came to support you very very proud! Most importantly, you have make me so proud of you that I decided to give each and everyone of you a present! I hope you like it!

Well done children!

P.s: Any student or parents who want any of the photos do let me know, I will email them to you. Also, do email me if you have taken any nice photos that you wish to share, esp those taken together with me! Hee...

The job that touches life - Teaching

One upper secondary boy came and approached me during recess today.

Student: Mr Toh, they say you will be leaving us during the June Holidays?
Me: Yes
Student: Then, will you come back after the holidays?
Me: No. I don't think so. Your teachers will be back by then.
Student: Oh, that's so sad. I will miss you.

I almost cried... Some students are telling me these already even though I'm still left with 4 more weeks with them..

3 weeks as a PE and Physics teacher

Yes... I know I have not been blogging... But work in sch and my swimming lessons have been keeping me so busy that I simply have no time to blog....

Time flies... And I've been a PE and Physics teacher for the past 3 weeks.... So far, its been very fulfilling with everyday different challenges and new encounters...

And thought it has just been a short period of time, I guess... I have made a difference in some students life and touched them. =D

At least, thats what I receive from 1 of my PE classes...

In it.. it says....

Dear Mr ToH. It is a short 2 periods we had with you each week. Two weeks have passed and we also have run 2.4km for 2 weeks. You ran with us the previous week and pushed us on. Many of us failed but you encouraged and help some of us to pass. We appreciate you for that as running 2.4km was a chore for most of us.

We want you to know that even though you will be with us only for a short period of time, we will still treasure you and want to have fun times with you. In the event if we have made you fed up or disappointed you, We sincerely apologize and seek your forgiveness.

This is our little appreciation written on behalf of the class to you. We hope to spread our care and warmth this way through little notes into the envelopes. You can do so too, by writing notes and dropping into the envelopes of people whom you wish to give.

A simple note might mean nothing but it can brighten up someone's day (:
http://threediligent08.blogspot.com/

April 13,2008

Mayflower Primary School Swimming

I just had to tell the kids that I wouldn't be able to continue teaching them swimming anymore due to my relief teaching commitments....

It's already hard enough to tell them that I'm leaving them. And I had to do this twice as I'm coaching 2 classes.

When I 1st break the news to the 1st class, the mood was still ok as I tried to bring across the message to them in a "happy" way... But when I break the news the 2nd time, I guess.. I just need to tear when I see some of my kids crying.... Sorry

I love coaching this 2 classes as they are full of energy and their laughter doesn't seems to end... I guess, after 7 weeks with them.. We have a bond - A special bond between them and me which can't be explained.

I remember each and everyone of these kids name by heart and how some make request to their teacher to change their group to mine. In the end, my group has the most number of students! But like a parent commented " They seem to enjoy your swimming lesson much more than the other groups"

See the difference in mood... 1st class is happy.. while the 2nd...

Back in singapore!

I'm back in Singapore! It's really nice to take a short 3days break away from town to an island to just relax....

For me, I went to take up my Advanced Open Water and now, I'm a qualified Advance Open Water Diver! =)

Now, lets start with the train ride over there.. It took us 15hours from JB to reach the island.. Luckily, we booked a bed bunk cabin.... But not so fortunate when we came back... But sad story aside...

When we reached the island, its really a nice place.... The water is crystal clear about a meter deep... You can practically see your feet and the fishes swimming past... Nice sand, nice weather, nice sun, nice island, nice companion. What else can I ask for? =D

Now.. let the pictures do the talking...

The speedboat that got us there. Waves flying around!

The place that we stayed in

You have to be very serious when checking your equipments

But who says you can't have fun!? Hee... =D

All ready to go and explore a new world below

Relaxing under a coconut tree

Searching for my missing camera!

How close the fishes were! They swim to you!

The beautiful sunset

Here's the news.......

It's official !!

I will be doing relief teaching as a PE and Physics teacher for the next 2 months in April and May. Not bad right.... As for in which school, I think its not a good time to reveal it now. I might just reveal it in June if its alright.

But, its definitely going to be such an exciting journey! To be very honest, my dream is to become a PE teacher with the ministry. I've been trying very hard to get myself an interview with the panel but seems alot of hiccups occurs along the way. But well, obstacles are just part of the route to success.

But I must really thank all those who have helped me along the way. Thank you!

Alot of people are asking me why I decide to choose this route. There are some who even discourage me. But this is my dream and I will fight very hard for my dream. Though at the moment, I am only doing relieving but I really hope to learn as much as I can so that I can put what I learnt into practise. A small step towards my dreams.

We shall see what Teacher Jerry learn in school for the next 2 months... =D

Now... how am I going to break the news to my primary school LEARN TO SWIM programme kids that their swimming coach will be having lessons with them for the last time this week?

Good news!

I got a piece of good and delightful news for me..... But nothing is confirm till wednesday.... Stay tune.... =D

No Swimming lessons from 29th mar - 31st mar

Dear all students and parents...

Kindly take note that there will be no swimming lessons from 29th March (sat) to 31st march (mon) as its the 5th week of the month. Most swimming coaches, students and parents are taking a break from lessons during the 5th week. =D

As for me... I am definitely not going to waste my precious time away! So.... I'm going diving! Now.. the last time I went diving was 5 years ago in 2003 and I have been missing it... So its time for me to get back to the underwater world and say hi to my nemos and corals down under! =)

Also... I'm going back as a student to attain my Advanced Open Water qulifications! So.. stay tune for more updates from a place called paradise... Hee...

Bronze Test on 27 April 2008

Dear parents and students. Below are the confirmed names for the upcoming bronze test on 27 April 2008 (Sunday) @ 11am Yio Chu Kang Swimming Complex.

01. Alvin
02. Matthew
03. Jun Jieg
04. Chan Yinh
05. Norman
06. Jun Hui
07. Yvonne
08. Bryan
09. Putry
10. Gracia
11. Aloysius
12. Jun Yi
13. Wan Li
14. Sabrina
15. Kai Sheng
16. Sandra
17. Randall
18. Darren
19. Yu Qi
20. Wei Jie

Wishing all of you all the best and good luck for your test!

For michelle..

This entry is for Michelle. Below are the wet suits. The 1st four wet suits are for Jun Jieg and the last wet suit is for Chan Yinh

The Leap Years

Recently went to catch this movie after many many good reviews by friends...

It's really a very touching and romantic movie... Other than the love story in this movie, I think I saw how the actress (Li Ann - played by Wong Li Ling) fight for her dream, her happiness...

Despite the many objections from her family and friends that the thing she's waiting for is never going to happen, but she waited every 4 years... She insisted on her on dreams, she persisted. I think that's something everyone can learn from. The kind of determination you should have when there are simply too many negative voices around you.

Believe in your dreams. Hold on to your dreams. For no one other than yourself can give up on your dreams.

In the movie, there's a song called Scar( Stronger for Life) by Corrinne May. And in it, I found the lyrics very very meaningful and its worth sharing! So here I share!

Just want to run
Just want to hide away
Close my eyes to your gaze
Just want to leave
Don’t want to hear them say
“You’re no good at this”

When the world swirls with naysayers
Broken wings and torn pages
The road ahead
Swimming in my tears

Break me open
Tear me down
Into pieces
Broken crumbs
On the ground
You can mould and shape me
In your image
Breathe your life
You know I need it
Scars make us stronger for life

Losing myself
Gaining it back again
Forging strength from weakness
All that I am
All that I’m meant to be
Melting in your hand
Let the world swirl with naysayers
Pickled hearts and sour faces
What is real is what I cannot see

Break me open
Tear me down
Into pieces
Broken crumbs
On the ground
You can mould and shape me
In your image
Breathe your life
You know I need it
Scars make us stronger for life

Cut away
All within me
That won’t bear fruit
Cut away
All within me
Scars make us stronger for life

I dedicate this song to all those who face rejections, objections, conflicts and obstacles in life @ this point. To, those who are at the lowest point in life now. To those who fell down, and need a helping hand up to move along the long journey ahead. And to those who need a pat @ the back.

Remember... What doesn't break you up will make you stronger. Just like this song.

P.s: I learn a new word from this song! Naysayers

The sunshine after rain

For the past 4 days... its been a crazy, sudden and weird rainy weather.... Everyone must have felt it.. the rain that doesnt seem to end when it start to rain the whole day...

Finally the sun is out after taking a 4 day break! So cool!!

And here's what the lucky folks @ Yio Chu Kang manage to see around 5.30pm -6pm... A rather unusual rainbow... Not the kind of rainbow you will see... Its very special... Like, a piece of painting, a master piece in the skies...

Well... we know, special and nice moments don't last for too long don't they?

Thankfully for the technologies we have in this 21st century.. Camera phones! So, after my lessons, this is 1 of the more beautiful photos send to me taken by a 5.0megapixel camera phone!

Enjoy~!

Closure of Sports Council Facilities

3rd March 2008 (Monday)
1. Bukit Timah Field
2. Jurong West Sports Complex: Aquatic Centre, ClubFITT Gymnasium, Stadium, Sports Hall
3. Kallang Sports Complex: Family Fitness Centre, Water Sports Centre, Squash Centre, Tennis Centre, Netball Centre
4. Queenstown Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, Stadium
5. Tampines Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, ClubFITT Gymnasium, Stadium, Sports Hall
6. Yishun Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, ClubFITT Gymnasium, Stadium, Sports Hall

6th March 2008
(Thursday)
1. Burghley Squash & Tennis Centre
2. Farrer Park Sports Complex: Tennis Centre, Field
3. Jalan Besar Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, Stadium
4. Kallang Basin Swimming Complex
5. Katong Swimming Complex
6. Serangoon Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, Stadium
7. School of Physical Education (SPE) Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, Stadium, Sports Hall, Hockey Pitch, Outdoor facilities, Squash Centre, Tennis Centre, Gymnastic Hall
8. Yio Chu Kang Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, ClubFITT Gymnasium, Stadium, Sports Hall, Squash Centre, Tennis Centre

17 March 2008 (Monday)
1. Ang Mo Kio Swimming Complex
2. Bishan Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, ClubFITT Gymnasium, Sports Hall, Stadium
3. Bukit Batok Swimming Complex
4. Bukit Gombak Sports Complex: ClubFITT Gymnasium, Stadium, Sports Hall
5. Buona Vista Swimming Complex
6. St Wilfrid Sports Complex: Squash Centre, Tennis Centre, Field
7. Toa Payoh Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, ClubFITT Gymnasium, Stadium, Sports Hall

24 March 2008
(Monday)
1. Bedok Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, ClubFITT Gymnasium, Stadium, Sports Hall, Tennis Centre
2. Choa Chu Kang Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, ClubFITT Gymnasium, Stadium, Sports Hall, Tennis Centre
3. Clementi Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, ClubFITT Gymnasium, Stadium, Sports Hall
4. Hougang Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, ClubFITT Gymnasium, Stadium, Sports Hall
5. Jurong Stadium

27 March 2008
(Thursday)
1. Delta Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, ClubFITT Gymnasium, Sports Hall, Hockey Pitch
2. Geylang East Swimming Complex
3. Geylang Field
4. Jurong East Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, ClubFITT Gymnasium, Sports & Cultural Centre, Stadium
5. Tanglin Field
6. Woodlands Sports Complex: Swimming Complex, ClubFITT Gymnasium, Stadium, Sports Hall

Source: Singapore Sports Council

So take note of the dates!! They are close for a day... Don't go to these facilities on dates that they are close ya! Cause if you reach there and know that they are not open, you be grumbling away... Hee...

NASSA Bronze Award extra lessons

I will be organising extra lessons for my students for the upcoming Nassa bronze award test held in late April. Basically, I will be covering more on the areas that my students are facing problem in.

Which are:
1. Taking off their pyjamas
2. Doing their surface dive

Here are the info:
Venue: Yio Chu Kang Swimming Complex
Day: Every Wednesday 8pm
Vacancy: Only left 4
Fees: Free of charge

If you feel that your child needs extra swimming lesson in preparation for his/her bronze test, kindly contact me to register them. This extra lesson is open to eveyone...meaning, even if you are not my student, you are also welcome to join us! =D

P.s: Sorry to all the parents who make the trip down on 27th Feb 2008 (wed), it was my mistake that I mis-arrange the timings and dates. I'm really sorry for that.

Children enthusiasm

It's just not my style to blog about my kids from school projects until the very last lesson... But, sometimes... they just let me adore them so much that I can't help but to share my excitement here.... Haha....

Well, currently I'm coaching for a few schools in their LEARN TO SWIM program.. I shall not name the schools here as I wanna keep it as a surprise! Haha.... But, a few schools and a few classes... =D

So... for such projects, there are usually a few swimming coaches, say 5-8 coaches handling a maximum of 20 students.

Now imagine this.... when 100 over students are in the swimming pool waiting area, waiting for their coaches to arrive....

This coach enter the pool entrance and 1 kid goes screaming and pointing.... "Jerry!! Jerry!! Jerry!!! Teacher Jerry!!" And pri school kids... You know... "Monkey see, monkey do"... within 10 sec, the whole lot of them are shouting for me! OMG......

I must admit.. I have never experience such excitement before from children.. But strangely, these few schools that I've been coaching recently seem to have such trend... Shouting out for my name whenever they see me(even thought some of them are not in my class)

Well... I must say, I must have done something right along the way.... Its really interesting and encouraging to feel these kids enthusiasm. Just 1 of the reasons why I love teaching... =D

Individual Private Swimming Lessons

- Promotion for 1 to 1 slots has all been taken up
Please call me to make advance bookings-

Alright... I have a few time slots to coach individual lesson... So, here's a super offer! Private swimming coaching, 1 t0 1 individual swimming lessons (regardless of age, standard, location) Here we go....

$100 for 4 lessons! (usual price @ $240)

Here's the catch: Limited slots & timings available!

Timings available are:
Tuesday 11am - 5pm
Wed 7am - 2pm
Thurs 11am - 5pm
Friday 10am - 4pm

Terms & conditions:
1. Promotion offer only valid from 26/02/2008 till 30/04/2008
2. Promotion is base on 1st come 1st serve
3. The water family reserve the right to make adjustments to the timings
4. Only valid for 1st time student with The Water Family
5. Promotion only valid for the 1st 4 lessons

Kindly call me @ 9100 1855 or email me Jerrycoaching@yahoo.com to make arrangement for your preferred days and timings. P.s: If I missed your call, it most probably means I'm having lessons, do... Pls, drop me a message especially if you are using private numbers.. =D

Singapore 2010! Congrats!

Congratulations to Singapore in getting the right to host the Youth Olympic Games in 2010!!!

Be prepared for an exciting journey in the sports action in Singapore! Till then...

A new chat box!

I was just going thru my old posts when I saw some of the comments that were left behind....

Some comments are simply funny, some are motivating while others are written with heartfelt feelings... Go thru some of my more recent post and you will know what I mean...

Hence... I created a cbox! Its like a chat box where everyone can leave your comments, views and just mingle around in the chat box... Go on.. talk about anything... Make that box busy!! Haha... Also, I will be able to reply to all questions and queries faster that way... =)

Isn't this amazing?! For those who have been reading this blog.... You are on a journey with me as you view the transformation and growth of this blog! Haha... From just a simple blog... till a more "professional" blog? Now.. Isn't that exciting? Haha...

P.s: Give me some of your comments about this blog on the chat box k! Be it good or bad... All comments are welcome! =D

New Look with a new Menu!

A new look for the blog with a menu for easy navigation! Hee...

However, "FAQ" is still under construction... So.. give me some time to work that out ya! Till then...

Let's all support Singapore for the YOG 2010!! Results will be out this thursday!

Good luck Singapore!

New Group Swimming class just for Ladies

Alright... Due to popular demand... I'll be starting a new group swimming classs just for all our special ladies out there... =D All ladies are welcome to join us!

Suppose to start 14feb... But its valentine's day! So, we are starting it on 21st Feb 2008. Below are the details....

Event: Swimming Lessons just for ladies
Venue: Yio Chu Kang Swimming Complex
Time: Every Thursday (Starts 21/2/08) - 8pm
Group size: Max 10 students
Current no. of students: 3
Fees: $60/month

That's all the details for now.... Will update again if there are new updates! =D

Happy Valentine's day!

Happy Valentine's Day to everyone! Lovers & friends!

恭喜发财

Wishing everyone a Happy Chinese New Year And may lots of good luck and fortune comes to everyone! =D

Boy,12, dies after mishap at public pool

Was reading the papers when I saw this article under page 3 of The Straits Times - HOME. Tried to find the article online but couldn't manage to. So, I took some time to type out the article for those who never saw this article.

Boy, 12, dies after mishap at public pool.
By Tessa Wong

HE WAS a strong swimmer who swam often in the sea, but yesterday afternoon 12-year-old Danial Syawal Jailani died after a mishap at a swimming pool.

The New Town Secondary 1 student was found unconscious at Clementi Swimming Complex, where his school's physical education swimming lessons were held.

Paramedics were called in around 1.50pm and he was pronounced dead at National University Hospital at 3pm.

His death is a total shock, and mystery, for his family.

According to his mother, Madam Rozni Jumaat, 35, a housewife, he was a healthy active boy who loved swimming and cycling.

He had been attending the weekly PE lesson every Monday for the past three weeks, and would normally return around 2.30pm.

The lesson was supposed to end at 1.40pm, although it remains unclear whether he got into trouble in the pool during or after the lesson.

His family are now waiting for police investigations into the unnatural death to turn up some answers.

"Were there any teachers or lifeguards around? Did he fall or hit his head? Hopefully, we can get an explanation soon," said Danial's aunt, Madam Rozna Jumaat, who is also 35 and a housewife.

The eldest of four children, Daninal was happy-go-lucky and a born leader, said relatives.

He would often be seen playing around his block in Clementi Avenue 2 with his three younger siblings and four cousins.

He enjoyed cycling around on his prized unicycle which he had used his savings to buy, and also liked ferrying his siblings around on an old trishaw his aunt had bought for $10 off a karung guni (rag-and-bone man).

Madam Rozni had been waiting for his return yesterday afternoon so she could take the children downstairs to play, when her former husband called with the news.

"I thought it was totally untrue. So I went to the hospital, and saw the body. That was the moment the truth sank in. I realised my son is no longer around," she said, before breaking into quiet sobs.

Before leaving for school yesterday morning, he had told his mother: "Wait for me."

Those were his last words to her.
----------------------------------
No comments at the moment until investigations are done.

For all parents who read this article, please.. Be more alert for your kids and keep a close look out for them in the pool especially after their swimming lessons.

For all kids who read this article, please... Take care of yourself and be very careful when playing with your friends after your swimming lessons.

My sincere deepest condolences to the family.

Happy New Year 2008

After weeks of missing... I'm finally back blogging again....

Well... Been really a busy and hetic few weeks since the start of the new year... Rearranging my time schedule to accomodate my student timings, starting of new classes, school projects and handling complaints etc etc...

Well, Yes.. Complaint (Thankfully, just 1)... Well... I guess I will blog about that next time.. Haha.. Anyway, its the new year(I'm like 16days late?) Haha.. But hey.. so long you are happy, everyday is a brand new year! CHEERS!

Most people like to reflect on what they achieve last year and their resolution for the brand new year... Personally, I feel resolution is very important, as that't the motivating factor that pushes you... Will blog about this in my next post... Gotta swim to my next lesson... =D

A time when hard work pays off

Good news.. Good news.....

My long long wish has finally come true.. Thanks santa! =)

Well.. I'm talking about my 2 boys of course... Darren and Isaac..... 2 very good friends who care so much about each other and lesson is always filled with fun.....

These 2 boys are my very 1st pioneer batch of students... But, its only until today that they are able to take their gold test.... 1 reason is because of their age and their body size... hence, all along they could not meet the gold requirement of 100meters in 3mins with pyjamas....

They trained hard... Really hard... for almost a year i guess....

We started with just 1 lesson a week... Until 1 day I feel that we are not progessing as ideally as we should be... And I suggested twice a week... These 2 boys, without any complaints.. came for their lessons faithfully I would say... =)

Whenever Isaac is early for lesson or Darren, they would always ask me... "Teacher... Darren/ Issac lehx?" Or they would ask... "Teacher... Darren/ Issac got come? I wait for him k?"

Its simply amazing how a P2 boy can click so well with a P5 boy... I guess.. its chemistry... They dun seem like friends.. when in the pool.. They are more like brothers... And I must admit, they are the 1st that I see such chemistry among all my students....

Encouragement for each other, taking care of each other, helping each other and looking out for each other... What more can you ask of these 2 kids? =D I love them!

They trained really hard under my wings.... I must say, I pushed them abit too hard at times... Its for their own good tot.... From a timing of 4mins, we improved to 3mins 45sec, than 3mins 30sec, 3 mins 20sec, 3mins 14sec, 3mins 10sec, 3mins 5 sec, 3mins till 2mins 50 sec....

That's the kind of achievement 2 boys and a coach has done thru out the past few months...

Of course, the parents played an important part too, fetching them twice a week to the pool and having their dinner @ the pool after work.. esp, Darren dad.. I think, he's such a great dad! =D Every weekday evening, I would coach darren in the pool and his dad will be having his packet dinner @ 1 corner after which he took a short nap... That's the making of a good dad.

Even Isaac mum, when she sees the kind of training her son went thru, the number of laps he's required to swim.. after the lesson... she told me... "Woah... I sit here and see you all swim, I also feel so tired.... Tonight Isaac go home, sure sleep till very soundly.."

And today is the time where all our hard work pays off.... It really pays all of us who contributed off well..... Because..... My 2 boys came in as the top 2 swimmers today!!!!

Darren came in with a timing of 2mins48sec and Isaac came in with a timing of 2mins52sec... And that makes my 2 boys the 1st and 2nd out of a batch of 10 kids with 1 failure.

I told the boys... "Give your best boys... We worked very hard just to wait for today to come.. If we can't meet the timing today, Never mind... We try again.. But Teacher Jerry has confident in you 2... I know you all can do it... Just swim in the front of the pack and not at the back of the pack.. We can do it!"

And YES! We did it.... After their timing, I told the boys to relax and swim abit slower for the rest of the events.... But hard work really pays off... the next event, 300meters backstroke, 300metres side stroke, 400meters breaststroke/free style... They were still leading.... And not by a few metres... They led the whole pack by almost 100 meters, that's about 2 laps. And its per very stroke. So, theorically speaking... its 6 laps... =D

I am proud of these 2 boys... Really proud..

And end of the test... The tester asked me if those 2 boys were my students.. I said Yes... And he showed this to me....

And that to me... Is a very very big encouragement... cause the tester is someone I respect and that must be my best Christmas Present!

Thank you Darren & Isaac... You did us proud!

Merry Chirstmas & Happy New Year!

Ho Ho Ho!! Here's wishing everyone a Merry Christmas And Happy New Year!

Enjoy your holidays!

I will finally be taking a break for a week to relax and enjoy my holidays... =)

See you guys next year! Stay tune....

December - A cold month

What a cold month!!! Its been basically raining everyday... with an average temperature of 23-27 degrees?

Imagine us in the water! It's ice freezing!!! Anyway, lets hope the monsoon will be over real soon... Cause, the longer this monsoon lasts... The more silly encounters I will meet with my kids... Sooner or later.. We will be banned from the pool.. for being the "nosiest swimming class"

Haha.... Well, @ least, that's 1 parent told me today.. =D

This is what happen after a typical Sunday class.... Kids dun want to go home, but "kidnap" my swimming boards!

Future Architect

And when the weather gets so bad that we have to get out of the pool.... Usually, its the kids that's feeling the cold.... =D

A marathon in 4hrs56mins

Finally... I completed the 42.195km Singapore marathon in 4hrs56mins! =)

I'm really proud of myself... for pushing myself against my limits and to go thru such agony... Dun ask me why I want to go thru such agony, I dunnoe. All I know is... It's part of my life... If I can finish the race of marathon, I believe I can do just as well in life too.. =D

And I am glad I did it! While on the race, I saw this guy with his bib written as "My inspiration to run: For the fallen sportsmen comrades" I know he meant the 5 dragonboat guys... They will always stay in our hearts... =D

Now.. here's the timing of my whole course:

Start- 10km : 1 hr 4mins
10km -20km: 56mins 54sec
20km -30km: 1hr 9mins
30km-finish: 1hr45mins

I think I ran too fast on the 2nd leg... and hence my knees couldn't take it during the last leg.. Well, still I'm proud of completing @ a time with just 26% of the runners in front of me. =D

Hours before the race starts

Mins after the race ends

Run Jerry Run

Thanks everyone... for the encouragements..... I'm fine... =D its a stage where everyone needs to go thru... perhaps, its just a little bit harder for me... But life's goes on....

Although I'm a free thinker... But when I went to his wake, there was this small note given by his family... and in it, it quoted smthing from the bible I guess.. But I think its very meaningful....

1 Cor 15:52-53 "It will happen in an instant, in a split second... the trumpet will sound and the dead will come back to life. They will be changed so that they can live forever. This body that decays must be changed into a body that cannot decay.. a body that will live forever."

Rest in peace buddy.

In a few more hours time... I be on the route of the 42.195km... So, in case u see me... just shout... Run Jerry Run!!! Like how Forrest Gump run in his movie... A very meaningful movie that I would encourage everyone to see... :)

I fainted for the 1st time in my life

Just came back from Reuben wake....

During the wake, I fainted....

Wondering if its due to fatigue, hunger or over-whelmed sadness....

I miss you buddy....

Reuben Kee - Miss you forever

Typing this entry with a very heavy heart... Sorry, for this entry, there wouldn't be any jokes, there wouldn't be any laughter and for sure, you wouldn't feel any happiness in it....

I just needed some time on my own to type out my feelings now... I have lost a friend, a buddy, a platoon mate, a section mate and a bunk mate today.

Reuben Kee... My bunk mate in BMTC, Pegasus Company 59th Direct Enhanced Platoon 1, Section 4. 3 months with him make me respect him so much that I look upon him as an elder brother, someone who will always stand up for you and protect you..

He was a very talented man... Composing music, painting etc.... And not forgetting his fitness, he was the only man in our platoon who could do a total of 25pull ups non-stop... while I was a "Zero-fighter" during those days....

During our admin time, he would always ask us down to do pull up with him... in a way training us.... We grew closer when both of us shared a same dream before our POP (Passing out period)... We both wanted to be "MAN" for the rest of our NS life...

As our batch was a commander batch, meaning most of us will end up being officers or specialists.. Hence, chances of us becoming "MAN" was slim... My reason for being a "MAN" - I wanted to become a lifeguard and swim all day with a 8am-5pm vocation where I can book out everyday and be home with my family every night.

His reason - To row for SAFSA. Dragon boating was his love. I believe as much as my love for swimming and triathlons.

Hence, we started to "chao-kin"(thinking of alternatives) to escape whatever ways we can from becoming officers or specialists. We will discuss this issue every day with new and silly ideas everyday... From telling our platoon frenz to list us as the last frenz they like during our "Peer-Appraiser" to not performing our best during team works... Anyway, that we feel can "demote" us to become "Man", We will try...

Eventually, we succeeded. He became a full time rower for safsa and I became a lifeguard for SAF. Of course, we were so happy!

I didn't know about the news of the capsize boat until I read the papers today.. Its' when I saw his unique name, age and photo that I realised, it was him.... MISSING

Now... Its official that he's no longer with us...

I dunnoe what I should say, I dun even noe how I should feel..... And I dun even noe how I'm going to take it.....

I just can't imagine losing 3 friends in a span of just 2 years....

In 2005, I lost my very very very best friend, JiaHui. Cause of death: Drown

A few months later, I lost my best childhood friend, Alvin. Cause of death: Brain Tumor

Now, I lost a very good buddy, Reuben. Cause of death: Drown

Sometimes, I cant help but ask myself... Why? Why are they all leaving me so fast? I'm scared. I have my fears... Are these what a 23year old guy should be going thru? A life test?

My mum asked me... "Why must you kids always worry the parents?" Reuben was the only son in the family..

I dunnoe how to reply her. I told her, every sport has its risks... But 1 old man told me this before that he rather die doing something he love than to die of illness and drag ppl around him.

I really dunnoe what I can say/do now to keep my mum @ ease when I go for triathlons, ironman and marathons. I can only promise her that I will not push myself too hard and stop @ the slightest heart pain if I feel any.

Somehow, I feel the passion of dragon boating in Reuben and I pray for him in the other world...

To ask a sportsmen to give up his love for sport is a very difficult thing to do...

My student ask... "Teacher, why you always go for competition? You also never win... Never win still go there lose for what?"

I said "Winning is not everything... Most important is you enjoy the whole process... Just like how you all enjoy your lessons.. And losing is part of winning and its a form of winning..."

And I think Reuben... You have won the race of life... I'm going to miss you.... Memories of you will always be in both my heart and mind....

And here's the drawing that Reuben drew for our Company Logo... The spirit of Reuben will always fly high like our flag

2nd December

Dear parents and students

There will be no lessons on 2nd December (1st week of December) as I will be taking part in the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2007....

Last year, I completed it in 7hrs30min's due to an injury on my left leg on the 1othKm. I ended up limping all the way for the rest of the 32.195km.... I'm determined to do better this year round... And hopefully i will be able to do it! Not going for timing this year, completion without injury will be a success for me. =D

Your support is greatly appreciated! In terms of mentally, physically and financially! Haha...

So... just in case u manage to get down to the race course on that day... This is the number to look out for! 2567

P.s: Last week of december, I will be away for a holiday from the 24th to 31st december. Will update you guys again. Most of my students are not affected except for those on the sunday classes. I will make arrangements with you all by next week. =D

The Price of Education

-"If you think education is expensive, you should try ignorance"
-DR. DOLF DE ROOS

You know... the ugly side of some Singaporeans... Who want to practically save on everything? Like having free stuff for everything including education for their children?

There are parents who want to save on that few bucks and rather choose a less qualified, experience coach. I have nothing against that, in fact.. I'm 1 such person shamefully to admit.

I started my saxophone lesson with a local teacher charging me @ $140 per month for 45mins at his place (No Aircon!).... After 6months, I can no longer take the heat in his place and I feel that I'm not learning much from him.....

Than I changed teacher... charging me @ $120 per month for 45mins at my place... Woah.. Cheaper right.. But WRONG! His way of teaching is bad... I was with him for just the 1st month. -End of story-

Now, I have a concert player teacher from Bulgarian..charging me @ $200 per month for 45mins... Its alot more expensive and I feel the pinch.. But hey! I learn alot of him...

Conclusion: You pay for what you get....

Letting you kids learn to swim for $50bucks a month with me if you think its way too expensive.. Than please... look for those that are charging you $30,$40 a month.. I even heard there are those charging @ $25 per month... And there are those charging @ $60 per month

My class is standard - max 10 students... And I believe the way I coach my students, NONE I dare to say confidently, will ever want to change coach...

And kids with me go for their test at a speed so fast that parents always say.. ."so fast go for test?"

Most importantly is children learning swimming from me enjoys that! But its always the parents who can't understand... I dunnoe why, perhaps, some really have financial difficulties but for some... They "Coach-hop"... Jumping from 1 coach to another, just to save on the school fees, time, location etc...

But does the child really benefit @ the end of the day? I honestly dun think so... Not in any single way...

My very 1st few batches of student... There is 1 ger called Celine.. She finished her Bronze test with me many many years ago... And the grandmum (who was the one who always bring her for swimming lesson) decided to stop her lesson with me cause she find it such a hassle to bring her to the pool every friday night...

Its been years since I last saw her.. Until I saw her just last week at the pool again...On further conversation, She has been swimming for a few years with a few coaches... And I must say, she must have @ least 10 different coaches till date... Ranging from the most reputable swimming schools, association in Singapore to private coaches...

Now, she's learning from another coach... I asked her..."why you change so many coaches?"
Celine: "I dunnoe. Grandma say change... Than I change lorx..."
Me: "So.. how many coaches you changed?"
Celine: "I dunnoe... 10?"
Me: "Than out of the 10, U like which coach the most"
Celine (Without thinking): "You!"

Chao Yang Special School

Late in the night... and suddenly these kids from Chao Yang Special School came into my mind....

Chao Yang Special School... According to their website. They are " with mild intellectual disabililty(IQ level of 50-70, with concurrent significant limitations in adaptive behaviour as expressed in conceptual, social and practical adaptive skills"

To be very honest, I have never taught such students before and hence.. I was really afraid I can't manage them. But thank goodness... As a matter of fact, they are no different from any other children. Just that, most of them need alot of attention and patience...

I don't see them in anyway different from the other children that I taught. In fact, I feel that these kids learn to swim in a much faster way. I don't know why but not much explanations are needed for them. I show them once and they can do it! It amaze me, thought, correcting them in their strokings come with alot more patience...

I had 8 boys in my class.. Each with different temper, attitude and behaviour... And I really respect the teachers from these schools.. I think they are doing a great job! Because.. its not easy to control and teach them.

On a more personal side.... There were times were I feel so sad @ times for these boys. They are like 9-11years old... And I can feel for them... I wonder if the society can accept them. I hope they can be accepted! But I feel more for their parents... I'm not a parent yet of course... But I think their parents are going thru great pains to put them thru school, to communicate with them etc... Its not really easy I guess but they are hanging on to it....

I might not be able to help them in anyother ways other than teaching them swimming and water confidence but I hope I can do something thru my blog here....So.. Whoever is reading this....

Please, next time if you happen to see/meet such children/adults.... Give them a chance and time.... I think sometimes attention and a chance to speak matters alot to them

Nee Soon South CC

It started 12 weeks ago... with a total of 12 students.

I had a swim class with the Nee Soon South CC 12 weeks ago.. Today is the 12th lesson and marks the end of their swimming elementary Level 1. Due to the upcoming school holidays, I wouldn't be able to continue coaching them @ least till the beginning of next year....

You know, the thing about kids is that they don't lie.. Well, at least not at their age. =)

You can tell from their actions. These kids are the 1st batch of students that came 30mins before their lesson starts and rush to me when they saw me. One kid will shout and point.. "Jerry! Jerry! Jerry!" And all will rush to me as if I'm some SUPERSTAR or Actor... *blush* And they will offer to carry my boards for me... "Jerry, I help you take..."

Today, their 1st sentence to me was not that.. it was...

"Jerry.. Today last lesson already.. So fast, I'm not really happy"
Me: "Why?
"Because, no more swimming lesson. I cannot come to the swimming pool. I cannot see you."

Sometimes, its the way these kids put their words that they end up putting tears in my eyes...

I love this class! Cause of the kids smile and laughter.... And these kids really bond and help with each other... I see their encouragement in 1 another tot they know each other less than 3months...

And what makes this class so special is... 2 of the mothers join their kids in the lesson! That's cool.... I remember one of the mum saying tis to me... "Treat me as a kid... Teach me like a kid... I'm a child in swimming!"

This is 1 class that I will definately miss... =)

Sorry kids, I will see you guys next year January..hopefully...

People Association S.T.A.R Trainer

*Drum rolls..............................*

I am proud to present myself to you as a *Drum rolls again............* S.T.A.R Trainer from the PEOPLE ASSOCIATION!

It's an important milestone for me! Being a trainer with a reputable and well-managed organization like the PEOPLE ASSOCIATION a.k.a PA. It's where I would really want to give back to the community.

And of course, like any organization, they would always want the best of the best trainers in the industry. *know wat i mean?* =p and for the PA, they wan their trainers to be S.T.A.R! Sorry, cant revel much, but all I can say is... I'm becoming a Superstar Swimming Coach....

Can't say how proud I am of myself... But I am!

The Superstar Swimming Coach of tomorrow. =D

Voices of children

1st of all.... Allow me to apologise for not blogging for the past weeks. I suddenly realised that there are actually a handful loyal readers out there... You know who you are... So.... Thank you! And also...

So.... on today's topic... Voices of children.... You know... sometimes when a GROUP of kids get together... the decibel just seems to increase... Some might love it, so might feel that their voices are so noisy that they almost break down.... For me... I simply love it!

If someone were to tell me, excitment can be felt thru swimming. I would believe that! Just take a look @ the photos. =)

My favourite and most well taken photo so far. The photo shows how lively the water is, coupled with the happy expression of children. Man.. I'm gonna to send this photo for a competition some day! haha...

About Jerry

Someone said this to me... "Why is your blog all about swimming? I don't want to know about your swimming stuff... I want to know about your privacy life!"

Haha...1st of all.... Swimming takes up 90% of my life. At least for now, there is no love that is greater to overtake swimming and teaching.... So, u noe my marital status... =p I simply love these two. As for now, Swimming + teaching + Kids are the loves of my life now. =) I'm really doing something that I love doing it. Something that I place my heart and soul into it...

For the majority and the questions that I'm often being asked... How qualified am I? Here are the following...

I used to serve as a lifeguard for the following clubs

- Keppel Country Club
- Temasek Country Club
- Fort Canning Country Club
- Cosata Sand Resorts, East Coast
- NTUC Chalet, Pasir Ris
- SAFRA Yishun
- SAFRA Tampines
- SAFRA TOA PAYOH

Also, during my Army days... I was also a lifeguard.

My professional qualifications are as follows:

- National Registry of Coaches (NROC) coach
- National Coaching Accreditation Programme (NCAP) Theory Level 2 Coach
- National Coaching Accreditation Programme (NCAP) Technical Level 1 Coach
- Singapore Sports Council Certified Swimming Instructor
- St.John Ambulance Qualified First Aider
- Padi Open water Diver

In 2007, I was given an opportunity and invited to KUWAIT (Middle East) to serve as their swimming coach. But I rejected that offer. It was a very difficult decision between exploring the world and staying with my family and students back at home. I choose the latter. Reasons? I guess, that will be 1 long entry! So, I will write about it when I have the time. =) The main point is... I was given a very good opportunity over to KUWAIT! =D

All right... Enough about my "professional qualifications", now a sneak preview into my privacy... I think alot of people will get shocked by what they are going to read....

Other than doing sports on a daily basis, I play the saxophone (its a dream since I was alittle kid to play the sax) I must admit that I'm not really that fantasic but I play for lesuire.

I took up the saxophone to nuture my patience... And it really helps when most kids now adays learn music.. It makes me easier to communicate to them... See, these are little things that I go the extra mile for the kids....

One kid said this to me.... "Oh, Jerry.. That means the head breathing and the hands must have the correct timing together when I recover? It's just like my piano.. Must have the same timing" His timing refers to beats in music I believe...

Then again... I must admit my musical senses are really bad... I guess I get exposed to music at too late an age. =D Anyway... the image of Jerry playing the saxophone doesn't seem really right... So... haha

That's all for the preview! Will write 1 more entry in a few days time... =p Yum yum...

Triathlete to be...

Phip from Canada... He's a great man! And a very respectable man.....

I admire his courage in preparation for his 1st triathlon.... It's sad that he wouldn't be having his triathlon here in singapore... I mean... it be such a great feeling to swim, cycle and run side by side with someone I coached.... But... nevertheless... I wish him all the best in his pursuit for his very 1st triathlon in Canada which I guess will be in next summer....

Well, if I have the chance or money.. I would like to join you over there! I've never been to Canada. So, I wonder how would it be like to have a race over there... esp when he told me about snow and snowboarding over there... Coolz~

Well... Like always, good times dun remain too long don't they? He's leaving for France this month to complete his MBA studies..... I sincerely wish him all the best and I'm glad that he's strokes have improved and he can do longer distance....

Nice having you as my student Philp! All the best! Good luck!

My Coach My Hero

Ever saw those ZO Cards/post cards that has those movies on it?

There is 1 for coaches too! And I recieved 1 too! =p

Oh...... Isn't tat sweet!?

And thanks to the kind folks @ Singapore SPorts Council... They gave every coach a nice shirt... =p

Happy Children's day!!!

HAPPY CHILDREN'S DAY!!!!!!!!

1st of all.... I really liked to thank all the parents for the help in making this year children day a success.... We would never have make this event a success if not for the food you guys brought.... The chicken wings, the satays, the otahs, the fish balls, the bee hoons, the hot dogs, the home made agar agar and not forgetting the drinks & desserts!! Thanks....

I'm really glad that I have so many supporting parents around who are willing to spend their sundays with their kids swimming coach. Haha... It sounds funny... but hey, it was a fun day for the kids!!

It was a crazy night... With so many kids running around... I can hardly keep them in places.... No kids could sit still for 5mins... Trust me, that's true!! 1 parent said to me... "Jerry... u r like a honey... see, wherever you go... all the kids follows... And today, you are the parent, cause what we say, they dun listen.. but what you say... they all listen..."

Haha...As if!! Look at how they bully me!!

Here are some photos for you to enjoy..... From the preparation of the children's day to the day itself... Look @ how crazy things were and how thoughtful this coach has been... hee... =p

Getting ready for the big event in a very tidy manner...

The tibits for the kids....

Their presents that their coach has choosen for them with thoughts...

On my front are their presents... @ the back, are their goodie bags in boxes!

The chalet for Our Children's Day Party 2007

This is the bbq pit. We booked 1 room hence we are entitled to just 1 pit, but it was just too small for us~ Hence, we used a second one on the right! And guess what? The manager came but luckily, he was very understanding and helped us make the neccesary arrangements... Over here, I would like to thank you for helping us make our children day's a pleasent one! Thank you!

The highlights of our event.... Fire sparklers!!

The kids just know how to play....

Running everywhere with the sparkles... Hee...

The parents having a nice break as they enjoy a moment of peace from the kids.. So, where are the kids!? =D

Kerstin and Desmond are pri 5 this year.... which suddenly strike me... I was in Pri 5 too!!
12 years ago... Not too old rite... =p

In case you are wondering what they are looking at... Its Jerry the Magician!

They are queing up for their beloved stuff... with half of the group already gone to play! So, this is just half the queue!

When it comes to play... The kids help each other.. and not their teacher... Hee...

My 1st batch of swimmers. From non-swimmers to swimmers.... I watched them grow...

Parties are never fun without a group photo!

It's a children day's party. How can we missed out the big children!! 12 years ago.. we were in Pri 5! It's heartwarming to see all my long time friends doing well in life... And 1 of our pilot is leaving to the states for 3 years to train his flying skills... So, it was also a farewell party for him.. All the best Wei Hang!

Last but not least... The most important person behind the scene... My parents! All these were possible with their help... In a big company, they would be under the logistics department... Hee.. They were the ones who got all the bbq stuff, making sure the drinks were enough, the charcoal, the food etc were in places.... My mum was the sponsor for the curry for the 3rd year running. And my dad was the runner... Running here and there to get more cups, drinks, charcoal and ice... Thanks mum & dad!

Luckily this year, there was no rain!! We are really very lucky!!! Lookin forward to next year children day's party!!! Over here, I would like to thank everyone who has took time off their busy schedule to attend our Children Day's Party. Without your help and effort, the kids would never had so much fun. Thanks for all the support... SO here it goes...

HAPPY CHILDREN'S DAY!!!!!!!!

2 more days and counting...

Counting down to the bbq and children day's party..... 2 more days!!

All I can say is... its' wearing me out.... And I'm so tired with the sourcing of presents for all the kids, the sourcing of the bbq stuff, the co-ordinations, the packings etc etc...... Its not easy... But I'm hanging strong there for the kids....

We are all looking forward to it!! Let's hope that it dun rain that night....

Swimming Groups Just for Ladies

Due to popular demands, I will be starting a new adult swimming class just for the ladies. The 1st lesson will commence on the 7th October 2007 (sunday). Lessons will be held every sunday around 6pm.

Timing will be re-confirmed again, but we are looking at around 6pm or 7pm. You know the girls like to swim when the sun sets to protect their skins..=)

Currently there are 3 ladies on the list but I will want to keep the class small say around 5-6. (but if response is too overwhelming, we might just get the numbers going. But rest assure, the maximum number of students will be 12.)

Therefore, slots are limited.... Contact me for more details and to register... You know the number... 9100 1855... =p

Sacrifices

Was having dinner with my friends the other night when 1 of them popped this question to me.

Hey Jerry, Long time never met up with you and even longer time since you last went diving with us.

Yes... I'm an open water diver and I love to dive! When he asked me that question, thinking back, yar... its been years since my last dive and I really miss those diving days with them...

But, ever since I decided to turn full time and professional swimming coach, making sacrifices seems inevitable. Its a sense of responsibility as a coach that I place my students and kids as a top priority.

Perhaps, its not only me. Making sacrifices out of your personal life for commitments to things/ people that are important in your life are what most adults have to decide on. I believe, most teachers make sacrifices for their students.

If someone were to ask me if I'm happy with the sacrifices I need to make(other than diving), I would reply. Yes, cause I'm doing what I love most - Swimming and children. It's a passion. And humans achieve their best when they are doing something that they love and have a passion in it.

Preparation of Children's Day

I just realised that I have not been blogging for the past 1weeks.. Hee.. Sorry about that... As I been really busy with lessons and sourcing for my kids children day's presents... Its always this period that's the most headache for me...

I need to find them some presents that they will like and useful to them. Haha... I still remembered 4 years ago when I 1st started organising such parties for them... (In order to attract them, I told them...Jerry will give presents to those who come..)

And guess what was their replies? Oh... I know... you giving us pencil and pens right? =( Haha... perhaps, that's what they are used to receiving on every children day? hmmm... I used to receive lots of that few years back as a child.. haha... Still young k!

Anyway, now still in the midst of organising the event, looking for presents(Any sponspors?), confirming the total number of ppl attending etc etc... Alot alot of logistics issues... But when the day comes... Its fun! Haha... somehow or rather.. I will think its worth it...

But every year, without fail, our party is greeted by heavy showers...YEs, every year... So, lets see if this year it will rain or not... =p

Henry from Saigon, Vietnam

I have been happily coaching this boy from Saigon, Vietnam.... And I mean really happily... Lessons with him is always full of fun and laughter. =) Oh, his name is Henry. When he 1st told me, "Jerry, I'm from Saigon." I was.... hmmm... where's Saigon? haha.. Only than I realised that its in vietnam! Cool~!

And he's only 6 years old! But boy... he talks like an adult! When talking to him, it feels like talking to a younger brother or perhaps a son?! Oh no.. I'm getting old... Haha.... I mean, he and I shares no secerts...

He will tell me what he did today, like going to the dentist to take out "3 worms" because he ate too much sweets... and he talks like the dentist! haha...

How I wish I can video down everything that he says... cause he's just too cute! We once had lesson @ 9am... and he came to me and said

Henry: "Jerry, I'm not feeling too good today."
Me: "Why?"
Henry: "Because I didn't sleep well last night"
Me: "Oh."
Henry: "Yeah, I was playing games with my dad, fighting the planes and monsters... I slept late last night... I'm tired"
Me: =D

Well... Althought I didn't video down those conversation, but I video down his strokes. My! I was shocked @ his progress in swimming... Its either he has the potential or his coach is damm good! =p

I'm serious! Try imagine a 6 year old boy swiming butterfly. Now, imagine this boy learn to swim butterfly in 1 session! Yupz, 1 lesson is all he takes! Check out the video... =) I'm impressed by his progress thought I must admit there are still lots of rooms for improvements.

Good news is, he loves to swim butterfly out of all the strokes. Cheers!

Sad news is, he has left singapore and gone back to Saigon.

Yeah... he was here during his summer breaks, now that his summer breaks are over. He has left Singapore...

Well.. wishing him all the best.... but before he left, he asked me to call him "pi pi" cause he's a bird, and I asked him to call me "pooh pooh"... Haha.. it's a silly game thats being played by a silly coach and a silly boy. =D

Children's Day!

Dear Kids (which basically means everyone!),

Children's Day is less than a month away!! I can already feel the excitment from my kids when I tell them about the plans for our children day... =p

Yes, its confirmed! We will be having a bbq session over @ Aranda Country Club on 30Sep 07. Time to be advised again. Need to find out how many ppl are coming.

This event is strictly by invitation only. =) Good news is.... EVERYONE IS INVITED! Haha... But you need to confirm your attendance with me latest by 22Sep 07...

This event is potluck meaning everyone just bring along something to share & eat. Food list will be coming up in a weeks time once I can have an estimate number of ppl attending.. So, if you wanna join in the fun. Let me know!

P.s: There be presents for the children. Strictly children only. Haha...

It's Official - 6hrs23mins16sec

According to the website...
http://www.ironman703singapore.com/index.php?page=age-group---male-18-24-years

I completed the event in 6hrs 23mins 16sec with an overall position of 40 in my age group out of a total of 66. Rankings are not important to me. Its the timing and enjoyment of the race that's more important... But what I'm proud of is my swim timing - 41mins05sec.. That gives me a ranking of 18 out of 66. Haha... =) Yeah... after all that's my professional...

Next, hope to see photos of the race day... And I'm actually making plans and saving up to go for Ironman 70.3 Geelong, Australia.... I think that be so fun! But I need to save up alot of money 1st... Considering the air tickets, flight fees of my bike, registration fees and not forgetting my accommodation over there.... Hmmmm.... Any sponsors? Haha... I can print your company logo on my shirt, cap, helmet, body.. anywhere! So long you are sponsoring me... =p

Jerry Toh -Finisher of Asia 1st Ironman 70.3

Yes! I made it today! Having swam 1.9km, cycle 90km and run a half marathon in 6hrs 23mins.... I'm an Ironman 70.3! =) The timings are not official yet as I do not have the results yet... But my stopwatch says that timing.... Important thing is I completed the whole course! =)

Had expected to finish the whole course in 8hrs (cut off timing of 8hrs 30mins)... So when I saw my timing, I was really surprised and proud of myself... I did it. =)

It was a long day today having woke up @ 4.30am and took my breakfast before I head down to East coast and prepare for my swim wave @ 7.25am. Wave and current today was scary. Yes, scary! The wave was so high that I could not even see the markings and the current was so strong that it could carry you away... I almost gave up @ 200m mark after drinking lots of sea water... But the mind of an athlete tells me to carry on.....

After which was the transition to the bike and its great to see a familiar friend face there! It really boost your morale up! While on the cycle leg, I saw MP Teo Ser Luck! Cool~ =) Its really nice to be in events like these cause you actually get supports and motivations from total strangers... As our bibs have names, you can hear fellow athletes saying.. "Come on Jerry..." "Keep going Jerry..." "That's it Jerry..." Woah.......... Short and simple sentences from a stranger are so powerful that it keeps me going... =)

While on the run leg, I saw an international athlete walking with difficulties... I went forward and cheer him on... "Come on mate... Keep going... Follow me... (as if I'm so fast... Haha)" But its these kind of short motivations that we keep each other going... And guess he's rely to me?"Thanks! I have never seen such humanity in my life before... At least not where I'm from."
And before I could ask him.. Where he was from, he ran so fast away and I could catch up with him... Haha....

These are the fun parts of the ironman 70.3... On a more personal side, its tough doing an event like these... It's a test of your personal endurance, disciplines and limits.... There were time where I really felt like giving up but I persevere because I made a promise to myself that I will complete it.. There were also times where I almost cry over the pain that I was experiencing...

But when I was on the floating platform towards the finishing line... All was worth it.... The moment when I crossed that finishing line... That kind of feeling.... its a mix. A mix of tears and excitment.... =) Hopefully to upload photos of this event soon! =)

Without you

Teacher's day is around the corner and so is Children's day! Looking forward to our children's day event cause every year, I will organise a special event for my kids! Hee.... This year is even a bigger bang! Details will be confirmed next week...

Recently a lot of my adult students are able to swim in 3 lessons... And literally, I mean they can swim without any struggles and the correct strokes... But everytime when I decided that its time for them to go on their own.. They always tell me the same thing which really melts my heart... haha.. Yes, I'm soft hearted @ times....

They said... "I can't go on my own without you."

Enough has been said. =)

Team Hoyt - You Can!

This video will shows you that nothing is impossible in this world and YOU CAN!

Its a very inspirational clip which I hope will encourage you and inspire you to move forward regradless at which stage of life you are at now.

It's a story of an unconditional love of a father. The power of love.

Aviva Ironman 70.3

Dear all... Once again, there will be no lesson on Sep 1st(Sat) and Sep 2nd (Sun). I'm taking part in "Asia First Ironman 70.3" or also known as Aviva Ironman 70.3

Sunday is the official race day and I would seriously like to have a rest on saturday. It's going to be a tough race considering the distance. For those who don't have any idea what's the whole race is going to be like, these are the followings:

Swim - 1.9km (That's about 38laps of a standard olympic size pool)
Cycle - 90km (That's about 2 laps around singapore. From Jurong to Pasir Ris and back to Jurong)
Run - 21km (The distance of a half marathon)

Seriously, this is my 1st time in attempting such a distance. I 1st took up triathlon in 2006. For triathlon, there is no cut off time for the whole race. But for Ironman 70.3, there is a cut off time of 8hours 30mins! This time surely adds in the stress.... =)

Parents and students have been asking me WHY? Why join such events? Why go there and torture yourself? So difficult.. Can mehz?

My reason - I want to keep fit. Haha... I know it sounds "lame" but.. such events are the motivation for me to get my body working out. I'm a coach and most importantly, I'm a sportsman. Fitness to me is very important and I believe keeping myself in good shape does makes my students feel proud.

I don't wish others to comment to my students and say... "eeee.... why your coach so fat one?" Cause I have personally heard from my own students saying... "Eeee... Jerry.. why that coach so fat? He can swim mehz?"

It's hurting if someone actually passes such remarks...

Also, its an experience that I can passed down to my students. Why? Cause, I learnt alot thru out my trainings and my races. Things such as determination, endurance and motivations are not stuff that you can read off the selves and share it with others. These are things that you need to experience for yourself.

Its' easy to be motivated by others but its never easy to motivate others to get them motivated. Haha... its a tough sentence that needs some thinking.

Triathlon/ Ironman 70.3 is an endurance sports for me, its not an extreme sports. Its a test of personal endurance and determination. Its a race that's against yourself.

And while training yesterday, I saw the sun "ice bow"! Beautiful... @1st I thought I saw the ozone layer.. haha..

P.s: I will only take part in races only if there is a fifth week in that month. Else, my students are my 1st piority. Like, sep there is a fifth sunday and December has 1 too. Hence, in december, I be taking part in Standard Chartard marathon. Hee..

From the kid eyes part I

I'm really getting to realise the world of children is so much different from us as adults. For me as a young adult. haha....

Take a good look @ the pic above and tell me what was your 1st expression?

When my kid told me what he saw, I was really amazed! And boy, I took quite a while before I could really figure out why he said that.. Now, what did you see? A normal looking ladder by the pool?

Well, from the kid eyes.. He saw a dinosaur! And he was like... Jerry... Keep quiet... there are dinosaurs around.... For a moment, I really looked around for dinosaurs and I said.. Okok... Shhhhh... But.. where are they? And he pointed them to me! Haha...

Somethings in life as an adult, we tend to overlooked but for the kids.... Their mind and world is filled with fantasy and joy.... And I want to be part of that world! Haha... Well.. I did a search on the net and I guess he meant this dinosuar.

Barney the dinosaur!

NASA Silver Test

Yupz.... another batch of students went for the NASA Silver test yesterday... I send in a total of 5 of them.

Every test so long I enrolled my students for it, be it Bronze, Silver or Gold, without fail, I will be there to support my kids both morally and mentally. It might not mean much to most people but to these kids, my presence means a great deal to them!

And its on every test day, you will see how anxious and nervous these kids can get... From asking funny questions, giving funny answers and having funny expressions... My.. those kind of expressions are priceless.... It's not a matter of preparation these kids have done... No matter how much preparation I have done for them... When they think of swimming 2 laps in 4mins with their pyjamas, they freak out. Below are a few funny stuff these kids will ask... (for most, it might bring a smile on your face, but to those kids... They were really anxious!)

Jerry... Later if raining how? Then no need to take test right?! (The sun was so bright and sunny @ 1pm!)

Jerry...Who is the tester? Is it old uncle?

Jerry... Later my pyjamas got hole how? Then cannot make float..

Jerry... My heart want to drop out liaoz...

Jerry... I hope the tester meet an car accident. Then no need to take test already!

Jerry... Jerry... Jerry....

Haha... I like the last one.. This batch is the most anxious and nervous group I have send in so far.... Coz, till date, no one has rejected taking pics with their handsome coach expect them! Hahaha...... Whenever I bring my camera out, they will duck their heads... But luckily... I manage to capture a priceless expression.. The expression that says it all for the kids...

Smile Colin!

This expression was taken after he finish taking his timing. He came in 2nd! Time limit : 4 mins. He did it in 3mins 12 sec. My fastest student did it in 2mins 59sec. It was a surprise for me. I didn't expect them to swim that fast despite my encouragement telling them not to worry. But from their looks, my words didn't help much I guess. haha. But my presence helped...

The 5 Angels that took the test.

Mr Krisna - The Maths Teacher

Yupz! Mr Krisna is was my maths teacher during my secondary school days.. Now, I'm his teacher in swimming.. Haha... its a great and yet funny relationship between him and me...

I remember those days where he will gives us endless tons of maths homework to do and complete. And being the typical students, we will just copy from each other.. haha.... And he was so angry with us that one day he said. "You all want to copy.. At least go and copy correct ones... why copy wrong one?" Haha.... That makes sense!!! He's the teacher that has endless jokes in his bag and never fails to make you laugh!!

Looking back, he's been a great teacher and now that I'm a teacher myself, I see that he really did put in alot of effort in teaching us. Well, at least, I scored a B3 for my maths! Now is the time for me to repay back his kindness in teaching me..

The way he taught me, I will always remember it. And I pass that teaching down to his kids. Its so meaningful being a teacher/coach!

Well as for Mr Krisna, he's really a very exciting student during our lessons... He has a proud ego and he will try to perfect his strokes no matter what. I guess, that's the determination of a good maths teacher? Whaha...

I told him to smile! And he promised me! Luckily I knew him too well...
hence I gave him a wing to make him look more cheeful! Haha...

See! For almost 10 years, my beloved teacher is doing the same facial
expression!! Hee.... But I LOVE HIM! My teacher forever!

Swimming Course Rates And Duration - Public Pools & Private Pool

Course Rates & Duration for public pools are as follows:

Class Size	Rates (SGD$)	Duration
Individual	50/Lesson	45mins
Group Class (2 -12 Students)	50/Student	45mins -60mins

3 great benfits of having classes at public pools:
1) Greater exposure to children of other ages, races and standards.
2) Exposure to standard olympic size pool to enhance kids confidence in water.
3) Faster in preparation for NASA test.

Course Rates & Duration for private pools are as follows:

Class Size	Rates (SGD$)	Duration
Individual	60/Lesson	45mins
2 Students	120/Student	45mins
3 Students	80/Student	45mins
4 - 6 Students	70/Student	45mins - 60mins

3 great benfits of having classes at private pools:
1) Lessons will be held at your pool at your own convenient.
2) As private pools are not as crowded as public pools, hence there will be less distraction and your kids will be more focus.
3) Parents will be able to maximise their time while their kids are having lessons, parents can have some free time to do personal things.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
- Promotion for 1 to 1 slots has all been taken up

Please call me to make advance bookings-

Alright... I have a few time slots to coach individual lesson... So, here's a super offer! Private swimming coaching, 1 t0 1 individual swimming lessons (regardless of age, standard, location) Here we go....

$100 for 4 lessons! (usual price @ $240)

Here's the catch: Limited slots & timings available!

Timings available are:
Tuesday 11am - 5pm
Wed 7am - 2pm
Thurs 11am - 5pm
Friday 10am - 4pm

Terms & conditions:
1. Promotion offer only valid from 26/02/2008 till 30/04/2008
2. Promotion is base on 1st come 1st serve
3. The water family reserve the right to make adjustments to the timings
4. Only valid for 1st time student with The Water Family
5. Promotion only valid for the 1st 4 lessons

Kindly call me @ 9100 1855 or email me Jerrycoaching@yahoo.com to make arrangement for your preferred days and timings. P.s: If I missed your call, it most probably means I'm having lessons, do... Pls, drop me a message especially if you are using private numbers.. =D

Swimming Course Rates And Duration - Private Pools

Course Rates & Duration for private pools are as follows:

Class Size	Rates (SGD$)	Duration
Individual	50/Lesson	45mins
2 Students	90/Student	45mins
3 Students	80/Student	45mins
4 - 6 Students	70/Student	45mins - 60mins

3 great benfits of having classes at private pools:
1) Lessons will be held at your pool at your own convenient.
2) As private pools are not as crowded as public pools, hence there will be less distraction and your kids will be more focus.
3) Parents will be able to maximise their time while their kids are having lessons, parents can have some free time to do personal things.

Adult Swimming Class

How long does it takes for adults to learn to swim?

That's the question most people will ask me whenever they are interested in learning to swim. The answer: "It depends on individuals.But on average, my students learn to swim comfortably in 3 -8 lessons. However, learning pace differs from individuals. and learning never stops... it's lifelong.."

Adults learn faster compared to children as they have already master their motor skills long long time ago.. Haha... So, when it comes to co-ordination of the skill movements, not a problem for them at all.

Funny thing is, Adult students tend to worry alot. Just like my adult mummies! Today is their 3rd lesson with me and YES! They can complete 2 laps of a standard olympic size pool! I feel proud and happy for them considering 1 of them had a near drown experience in her childhood period.

But for karin... its really amazing to see her doing her strokes almost perfectly, but she worries so much that she stops every now and then and ask me..

"Jerry, Correct or not ar?! Leg open big enough?
"Jerry, aei... I got blow bubbles ma?"
"Jerry, aei... my strokes correct ar? Really correct ar?"
"Jerry, you sure ar? Swim to 1.8m? Cannot lar... I got drowning experience"
"Jerry, how come I'm swimming so slowly ar?"
"Jerry, I got move or not ar?"

She asked me the last question after swimming for 25meters. Haha... Its cute to see them ask such questions knowing that they love to swim and is determined to swim. And when she's nervous, she craps alot... and talks alot...

Yup! She craps so much till her friend can't take it anymore and says... "Darling.. today 3rd lesson only ,you swim 2 laps liaoz.... Very good liaoz... why you worry so much?"

And being the nicest coach possible.. I need to re-assure her... "Karin, those questions are the questions I'm constantly asking myself when I look @ the way you swim. If there's anything wrong about it, I will let you know. You don't give yourself too much stress and pressure. And please, don't think that you will drown. For, the more you think about it, the more you will drown. That's the #1 common mistake most adults face."

So comparing adults with kids. I found 2 cute and interesting facts. (For the majority of them)

Kids - They are so innocent and lovely that they don't think so much like the adults and just enjoy swimming but they faces motor skill problems.

Adults - They have not much of motor skill issues but they worry so much that they keep stressing out themselves and wanting to prefect the stroke asap.

Well, if adult students can take away the stressing part on themselves, they can surely swim in less than 4 lessons under my tender and loving care. Haha.... =p

*P.s: I'm wondering if they will allow me to take a video of how their strokes are... haha...

I'm missing them...

I am missing the kids from DOHA.... Keith and Vivan.. I miss you 2....

They were here in Singapore for a month and we had lessons almost everyday! Oh my.... Now that they have left for home in DOHA, memories of these 2 will always be in my heart...

Keith - The kid who's so quiet and agree with everything that I say but in the end, always end up doing the opposites of what I say. Haha... Can't blame him as he's just 6!

Vivan - My girl whom will never never fail to bargain with me the number of laps she wants to swim. And I must say, she's a good bargainer with this soft-hearted coach who melts when ever she says.. "pls......"

Language Teachers Needed

I'm looking for a multi-language teacher who can teach me languges so that I can communicate with my students more efficently. Please contact me if you are well-versed in the following languages - German, Indian, Japanese, Vietnamese,Burmese, Thai, French, Latin and Middle east languages.

Haha... I'm just kidding... I can speak a little bit of each language.. Here we go...

In Japanese - Watashi wa Jerry desu means I am Jerry.
In Thai - Sa wa di means How are you
In Latin -Bravia means Good!

*The above pronunciation are taught by my students who are like 6-9years old. Hence, there might be some spelling errors. Hee... =p

Well.. the rest I'm still trying to pick up... hee... But its kinda sad that my students from DOHA are leaving..... =( They were here for a holiday.... I'm going to miss them... Tml, I will blog about them. Promise!

~Heartwarming~

I recieved a very heartwarming sms today. Its from Mrs Deepa. I must admit. Its one of those messages that really brighten up your day! =D Thanx Mrs Deepa

In the msg, she wrote: "Jerry, a big thanks to you. Since last 2 days Ansh has been swimming laps.. with just 2 lessons with you. I hope in the coming classes with you he can perfect a style. Cheers!"

Now, isn't that sweet of her!? So Sweet~ Thanks again!

From my understanding, Ansh used to have a coach.. and yeah.. the same old problems... But honestly, I think he's a more serious case compared to my previous posts.

His ex-coach taught him freestyle and breast-stroke together.Meaning, 1 stroke after another. And these 2 strokes are not inter-related @ all. I must say that coach did a "great" job in confusing him! Now, Ansh is so confused with his strokes that he doesn't know when to apply freestyle kicking and when to apply breast-stroke hand pulls.

When I see the way he swims, I feel so sad! He shouldn't be swimming that way given his talents for the water. But, given enough time, I think I should be able to help him correct his strokes. But at the moment, its really a challenge to correct them. Well, at least now he's doing his kicking correctly! =)

1 thing I'm feel proud about is his passion for the water! Just like me! Haha... He's one of those kids that will not want to get out of the pool after the lesson ends. No matter what's happening, be it me asking him to get out of the pool or the mum asking him to go home, he simply wun budge! Honestly.. That's what I like about him! He never fails to make me laugh during the class though I been coaching him for just 2 lessons, it seems like 2 months! Hee..

When a passion student + a passion coach = Miracles!

Now... how do you tell if a child loves the water? Look @ what he did in the water!! You will smile! =)

Introducing: Water - SPIDERMAN! =)

The Water Family - A blog on swimming lessons!

Tuesday, 14 July 2009

Happy 25th Birthday! =)

Monday, 6 July 2009

What Makes A Good Teacher?

Monday, 22 June 2009

The boy and the Starfish

Thursday, 18 June 2009

The value of time.

Tuesday, 9 June 2009

The words kids say....

Sunday, 7 June 2009

Charity work....

Thursday, 4 June 2009

Adult Swimmers~ A fun lot.

Friday, 29 May 2009

Can i have 1 more hour?

Tuesday, 26 May 2009

Letter to a teacher

Monday, 25 May 2009

3rd drowning case in a week

Thursday, 14 May 2009

Promises..

Monday, 11 May 2009

15th Intake for Holiday Swimming Intensive Programs

Friday, 8 May 2009

Tuesday, 5 May 2009

I am back..

Tuesday, 28 April 2009

We are going to Taiwan....

Saturday, 25 April 2009

Yet another stopwatch STOLEN

Friday, 24 April 2009

Nassa Bronze Test, 26 April 2009

Thursday, 16 April 2009

Look out for cyclists!

Tuesday, 7 April 2009

Batam Cable Ski Again =D

Friday, 27 March 2009

The importance of a Right choice

Tuesday, 24 March 2009

Congratulations Kids~ Well DOne!

Thursday, 12 March 2009

The Adrenaline Rush is Back!

Tuesday, 10 March 2009

Determined Parents Brave Monster Line for Swim Lessons

Thursday, 5 March 2009

Megan the Froggie

Tuesday, 3 March 2009

How is this possible?

Friday, 27 February 2009

Swimming Pool Store Value Cards - Savings!

Monday, 23 February 2009

Raffles Girls Pri Swimming Heats!

Monday, 16 February 2009

Add me on facebook & MSN~!

Saturday, 14 February 2009

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Tuesday, 10 February 2009

Boy, 3, drowns in pond during family dinner

Friday, 30 January 2009

The vain side of us...

Wednesday, 28 January 2009

Teen drowns in condo pool

Monday, 26 January 2009

Happy 金牛 Year! Huat ah!

Thursday, 22 January 2009

Obama Wanna me

The good things about us

Monday, 19 January 2009

Pre Test Stress Trauma Syndrome

Friday, 16 January 2009

Good luck Children!!!

Wednesday, 14 January 2009

Closure of Singapore Sports Council Sports Facilities

Wednesday, 7 January 2009

My dad says..

Thursday, 1 January 2009

Happy New Year!

Tuesday, 30 December 2008