Saturday, March 14, 2015

Thanks for the memories, Jesse Quek



It is with sadness we announce the graduation of Jesse Quek from the SMU Rugby camp. Jesse played his last tournament with the team today racking up a couple of tries and a few mazy runs that put a smile to many faces, including his.

Jesse is undoubtedly The City Boys favourite son, having been with the squad way before his matriculation in 2011. The stumpy and lovable In-Center has  been an integral part of SMU Rugby and the culture that it has developed today. SMU Rugby cannot find another man to represent the values and traits he stood for, even up till the dying seconds of his last match this afternoon, Jesse gave his all and never backed down.

Jesse shows exemplary fortitude and determination and never slips away in limbo. He has truly been an inspiration to all freshmen who've come under his wing and downed bottles of Tiger Beer at our beloved food court at Holland Village. Being seen as one of the most approachable and friendly guys in the squad and University, it is truly hard to find anyone who shares negative moments with this fine specimen of a man.

              Jesse Quek posting about his acceptance into SMU in 2010.


SMUrugbyNews would like to thank Jesse for all he has done for the club and what it stands for. His selflessness and grit has definitely clawed SMU Rugby out of the dark ages and also brought it to its peak and prime.

Cheers to you, Jesse Quek! Enjoy this lot of pictures we dug up from the archives. Thank you for everything, and the memories. <3









Friday, March 13, 2015

Tertiary 7s this weekend!



After 2 consecutive 15s seasons, Tertiary rugby finally sees 7s rugby action this Saturday at the NTU field.

Besides the usual University suspects, Republic Polytechnic and Singapore Polytechnic are making an appearance for the first time. Republic Polytechnic are the current kings of the Polytechnic circuit and Singapore Polytechnic are close on their heels.

SMUrugbyNews tried speaking to the respective managers for a preview of their squads, but all remained tight lipped and hesitant to speak.

We do know however that all University squads are missing their marquee 7s stars, who are in full on training for the SEA Games happening in June. These players include Martin Butler and Nick Yao from NUS, Ex City Boy and NIE/NTU gas man Bryan Ng and Blandon Tan from SMU.

Speaking to Blandon Tan earlier today, SMUrugbyNews got his insights and thoughts about tomorrows tournament
                                   Blandon Tan, SMU Rugby
SMUrugbyNews: Good to speak to you Blandon! What are your thoughts on the 7s tournament tomorrow?

Blandon: I think its great to see some of the Polytechnic teams step up and compete at a higher level, a long time ago, rugby did have IVP(Inter Varsity-Poly) games but were ceased due to age differences and something silly like size advantage. The game is evolving and players are getting bigger and badder. It's a good thing that this tertiary tournament is featuring these teams, it could be the push that IVP rugby needs!


So if you want to catch the youth of Singapore Rugby tear up the pitch tomorrow, do head down to NTU field where the games kick off at 9am!