
Coach Appreciation Month
Every September, the Singapore Coaching community recognises the tireless contributions of coaches. As part of this celebration, Coach SG with Singapore Gymnastics (SG) encouraged the gymnastics community to express appreciation to coaches through testimonials, messages, posts and videos.
A message to Coach Will Tan from Matthew and Melissa Shi.
"This picture is special. You’re patiently helping Matthew to put on his grips, and from what he tells me, you help him every time. It’s a tender moment. If you must know, we “hear” you often at home because Matthew makes us laugh when he talks like you. On a serious note, I’ve seen you play games with the boys to keep them engaged. I once saw your class standing on the bridge, all facing in one direction, and pretending to shoot. I looked back and saw you dramatically trying to act wounded. I know that when you act silly in front of them, it draws them closer to you. It was a touching moment. You know when each child has reached his limit. You know each child’s ability and push him to achieve his best. You engage your boys and keep us, parents, in the know. You are so serious about gymnastics that your love for it can be seen through your coaching, your words, your actions. You make gymnastics the best space to be in. You will always be the Coach that they look up to. You embody dedication, and I’m so thankful that Matthew is learning from you."
A message of appreciation to Coach Will from Jacob Lee Rebera & his parents.
We can not remember the time when Jacob does not look forward to go to the Gym. Gym is a fun place to be and Coach Will makes it that way. He often re-tell how Coach Will always patiently but firmly correct the boys with jokes and humour sprinkled generously. We too laughed at Coach Will jokes at home. Coach Will believes in the boys and he knows how to push them to their best abilities and draw out their self-confidence. He is also very passionate about each and every boy he coaches. We could remember recently how Jacob struggled to get a kip on the high bar and when Jacob managed to do it, Coach Will roared in excitement as if he won a gold medal (refer to the short video). Coach Will goes out of his way to teach the boys life skills, integrity and team spirit. Heartfelt gratitude to Coach Will, Jacob and the boys are so blessed to have a coach, a mentor, a cheerleader and a friend like Him!