Looking back at the intrams (especially the last day), I can’t help but feel a sense of awe and appreciation after the Hydras (the team I was assigned to co-coach) have won their well-earned victory. Seeing them sweat, cry, and get back on their feet several times after falling down is not just inspiring. It was uplifting and downright humbling, which is why I tried my best to be with them every time they played, all the way to the very last competition.

I mean, as one of the coaches, I could’ve just directed them from afar, stayed away from the sun and have given them instructions from somewhere a little bit more comfortable. But how can I do that? How can I hide under the shade when my players were out there under the sun, giving everything they’ve got in order to win each and every game? How can I complain when my players were still refusing to be replaced despite receiving wounds and several scrapes? How can I not give my best in leading them when they were giving 200% of everything they have?

I just couldn’t. So I did the only thing I can. I tried to be with them in almost all the games. During the last day, despite having an almost inaudible voice, I shouted. Every single time we had a break I taught them how to sing for the cheering competition. I even practiced the dance with them the whole afternoon.

No, it wasn’t about burning belly fat. It wasn’t about my duty as a coach. It was about giving them back what they give the whole team. We were a team and we stayed as a team throughout the whole intramural. So when the winners were finally called, I can’t help but feel proud and grateful to have been included in this team.