30 July 2017

Mr Sober Hj Salleh Memorial Trophy 2017



During my years in the Penang Free School, I joined the school rugby team. Our rugby coach back then was Allahyarham Sober Hj Salleh but everyone addressed him as Cikgu Saber. To me, he was not just a teacher who taught us in Seni Perusahaan classes and a rugby coach. He was a mentor to me. He taught me about life. He is truly a master indeed.

In PFS, all male teachers were being addressed as "Sir". The Teacher's Room sign was "Masters' Common Room". Hence, the word "Headmaster" is the Head of the Masters. But now many refer the position as the School Principal. Influenced by the Americans, perhaps?

A few months back, our Old Frees ruggers had discussions to organize a friendly tournament between the Old Frees Assoc. (OFA) and the PFS school team memorial game to commemorate Allahyarham Cikgu Saber's contributions to PFS Rugby team.

On that Sunday evening, after the Asr prayer at the PFS Surau, we started off the event with a Tahlil prayers for Allahyarham Cikgu Saber and for our friends who had left this world too soon.

5:00pm
We gathered at the school field. Theere were football and hockey tournaments too on the same day between OFA and PFS.

Most of the known faces were there including my uncle from batch '79.

5:30pm
The weather was cloudy as it was raining in the morning. The morning rain had dampened the field and the soil was soft. The temperature was also not too hot. A perfect condition to play rugby as the soft soil beneath the grass could prevent injuries.

I was not prepared for this game as I feel that it just for fun. It has been more than 25 years since I last played rugby. Furthermore, I just came back from the ride to Songkhla last night. Hope I have enough energy to play.

We started the game. After a few minutes, it all came back to me. As they say, it's like riding a bicycle. hehehe



































As the game ended, the OFA won. It was fun. I'm really exhausted but enjoyed.

Till we meet again next year.

Fortis Atque Fidelis!




No comments:

Post a Comment