Viewpoint: Vijay in TJ

Vijay in TJ said… “Pressure is a privilege. It’s an opportunity to prove your networth.”

I’ve added this quote to my facebook account and my email end-note… and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about how very true this really is.

How often do we realize this? Is it in the moment when you’re - taking that 3-point shot just before the quarter buzzer; or making that crucial pass into the penalty box for the equalizer; or anchoring the relay team for a close 1st or 2nd position finish? Can we live by this mantra… or do we crack under pressure?

These adrenaline-heart-pumping moments of pressure and challenge are our given privileges, and crucial opportunities to prove ourselves. Can we take this same attitude to the daily stress we face not just in our respective sports, but also in school and work, to rise above the call-of-duty?

Vijay Amritraj was in TJC on the 29th of January 2009. It has been two days since, and him sharing about his life, and why he does what he does has given inspiration and life to this section of the notice board.

Vijay talked about Passion, Purpose and Drive. He did so with his five ‘Ds’ of Desire, Drive, Discipline, Determination, and Divine Intervention. It’s something that resonates with all of us… it’s our TJ core values!

But how many of us can truly say what Passion, Purpose and Drive really means to us?

Vijay talked about believing in oneself and pursuing his dream that everyone else thought was impossible. He proved them wrong and was the first (and best) professional tennis player who played 20 years straight in the Wimbledon and Davis Cup for India. He’s also beaten World Number One John McEnroe and Jimmy Conners!

Localize the situation and I introduce to you our TJC alumnus and Singapore pro-golfer Lam Chih Bing. Chih Bing is three years my senior and we used to swim competitively at Singapore Swimming Club. He’s now the best Singaporean pro-golfer (to date), and is also the winner of the Volvo Masters 2008!

Dreams start with a belief. A belief in ones own abilities, coupled with the strength of Passion, Purpose and Drive.

I believe in the sharing of dreams. I know that when you’ve struck the right chord, people will be a part of your dream. And when you succeed, EVERYBODY will celebrate together.

I’ve got a dream for the future for the Swim Team as well. It’s for the TJC Swim Girls to move from overall 3rd to oust ACJC from their spot and for TJ to take the overall 2nd position. Some say it’s a lofty ambition, but I say it’s what keeps me (and the team) going.

Pressure is a privilege. A dream cannot happen without it. Will YOU be ready for it when you’re put on the spot.

Mr Alex Loh
Swim Team Coach and Teacher Mentor