The First Task, SGpanna

After taking part in my first competition, I realize how important it was for players in Singapore to support each other and stay bonded. If we were to stay united, we could grow together to achieve bigger accomplishments and more players could represent Singapore in competitions abroad. I wanted the community in Singapore to grow and we could have a group of players that would meet up often to train and become good friends.

Right after i joined Expy Crew, my first goal was to do something for the community and I decided to make a Panna Jam where all the panna players could come together to play panna and at the same time get to know each other. Since I started playing panna, there were no such meet ups and meeting other players to train was pretty rare. Coming up with the idea was easy, but doing it was not. I was pretty much a nobody and most people did not know who I was since I only just started playing panna for a few months and I didn't win any competitions either.

I managed to get quite a few contacts through my crew mates, afterall they have been in the freestyle football scene much longer than I have. I contacted each and everyone of them, getting to know them and asking if they would be interested to come for the meet up. Next, I went on to Instagram trying to spot any individuals that may seem keen in learning more about panna. I messaged SO MANY guys and as expected most of the response was disappointing, but among them were some that were interested and they agreed to come for the panna jam. I then created a whatsapp group in hope that everyone will get to know each another better and share knowledge/experience with one another so that we can all improve together. Unfortunately, the group was quite quiet (Perhaps everyone is shy HAHA) and it was not easy to get a respond from them, especially when trying to firm up a date for the panna jam. Regardless, it was a good first step and it was much easier to convey messages and information about events and competition to everyone.

The date was set and the panna jam was confirmed. as the day came closer I felt nervous, looking forward to meeting the other players and also the fear that the turn out will not be good. Fortunately, many players came, about 18 players came down for the jam, some meeting for the first time and getting to know what panna was all about. It was an amazing day with great atmosphere. I had a lot of fun and what made me happier was seeing the players getting to know one another and sharing tips and experience with one another. It made me motivated to do a better meet up session and do more for the community.

"The actions from just one individual can make a huge difference in the lives of many"

I really want to encourage more panna players to step out from their comfort zone and see what they can offer to the community instead of what the community can offer for you. Doing this does not benefit me, It takes many hours everyday trying to reach out to newer players, It take effort to organise and put together a meet up session... but if I do not do it, WHO IS GOING TO DO IT? I believe giving is the first step to receiving. When I was trying to pursue my dream in becoming a national player, no one supported and guided me, and thus i gave up on that dream. Now that I have accomplished tittles, I want to share my knowledge, inspire and motivate as many individual to achieve their goals!