By Sriganeshakantha Shidiksha (25S03F), Girls’ Captain, Eunice Yong En Qi (25A01A), Girls’ Vice-Captain, Ng Ray Qi, Rachel (25S03I), Girls’ Vice-Captain, Ritesh Srinaag Gunniya Rajkumar (25S02C), Boys’ Captain, Kan Jun Jie (25S06Q), Boys’ Vice-Captain, Li Enze (25S06D), Boys’ Vice-Captain
At the centre of the court, two players go head-to-head, stick-to-stick, blade-to-blade. Behind them on each side of the court, their teammates crouch low, with sticks in hand and bated breaths. They remain completely still despite the adrenaline pumping in their blood, waiting for their signal. Tension is at an all-time high. Beep! The referee’s shrill whistle sounds and in a swift swish of their sticks, the ball is whisked away in a flurry of passes.
Floorball is a team sport so fast-paced and high intensity that it has players and spectators alike glued to each revolution of the ball. Every movement of the stick is crucial, and any small gaffes may lead to a loss in possession. But fret not, for, as Coach says, “The ball is round, and anything can happen.” In the three periods of 15 minutes that we typically play, there are infinite possibilities as to how the game could unfold. With five players and a goalie on court at any time alongside shifts in short bursts of 45 seconds, team chemistry and speedy communication are instrumental in ensuring the seamless substitutions and clean passes that build up to victory.
Under the guidance of our teachers-in-charge, Mr. Benjamin Fong, Ms. Emerlyn Tay, and Mr. Yeo Cong Ren, we have built a team that is united in achieving our goals. Our boys’ and girls’ coaches, Coach Alfee and Coach Teresa respectively, serve as valuable and insightful mentors, teaching us the ins and outs of the game while instilling values of sportsmanship and fair play.
In general, our boys’ team consists of both new and returning players, some continuing their floorball journeys from Year 1-4. On the other hand, floorball is a developmental sport for the girls, with everyone learning the sport from scratch. While prior experience is not required for this CCA, familiarizing yourself with a stick and handling the ball can be daunting for newcomers. However, with the heartwarming support and guidance of our teammates and coaches, who push us to become the best version of ourselves, the steep learning curve becomes an opportunity for growth. Within months, your stick will become your best friend, and your improvements will be rewarding! Our dedication to the growth of both teams shone through in the 2024 A Division season, where the boys clinched a remarkable 2nd place, and the girls achieved a monumental 4th place finish.
In a typical CCA session at the ISH or MPH, every member does some passing, dribbling, and shooting drills to work on the basics of the game. Team drills follow, along with vital court simulations, as we learn how to attack and defend as a unit. Allocated game time also allows each member to apply what they have learned and express their creativity in their gameplay in preparation for competitions.
On top of court training, CCA sessions also include a physical training portion, from team runs to gym sessions, to condition team members and maintain a high level of fitness to keep up with the tempo of the sport. Training is conducted three times a week during the season and tapers off to twice a week during off-season periods. Prior to internal exams, CCA sessions are halted for us to focus on revision.
It is said that only under pressure are the most beautiful diamonds formed. We believe that discipline transforms potential into achievement, so our team’s dedication to this sport extends beyond the court. As such, we do our drills and practice our stickwork diligently not only during training sessions but also at home.
Here at Raffles Floorball, it is not all about winning championships. We strive to cultivate a team culture that embodies the principles of inclusivity, respect, and relentless determination. Every player is valuable and has a role to play in bringing the team to success. Through the tiring yet rewarding training sessions, we forge lifelong bonds that extend beyond the court, nurturing a sense of camaraderie that inspires each player to push their limits. As a tight-knit community, we constantly spur each other on, congratulating our teammates for good shots taken or giving them a pat on the back if they did not play their best. This culture of unity not only enhances performance but also shapes character, teaching us the importance of teamwork, empathy, and perseverance.
We at Raffles Floorball are one family. With the right mindset and attitude, floorball will be a sport that you, too, will enjoy and grow to love. If you believe that our fulfilling and tight-knit CCA ticks all your boxes in your pursuit of a new CCA, do give RI Floorball a shot!