Inter College Games 2025

 

Two weeks ago on 7 March 2025, 5 seminaries came together for Inter College Games 2025 starting with a time of worship at Ang Mo Kio Methodist Church before moving over to Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park for a series of friendly competitions. This year, EAST snagged the top prizes for Captain’s Ball and Relay Team and cheered our hearts out, even as our Student Council were helming the organisation of the Games.

Below are two student reflections from Tan Jing Fei was participated in Captain’s Ball and Pang Xin Xian who helped in organising the games.

A Reflection on Captain’s Ball at the Inter College Games – Tan Jing Fei (MA Intercultural Studies)

Playing in the Inter College Games was more than just a competition—it was a chance to connect with my fellow students and faculty in a way that our classroom environment does not always allow. At EAST, we spend so much time immersed in our studies, diving deep into theological discussions. But when we step onto the field for a game like captain’s ball, everything changes. On the field, there is no distinction between students and faculty, locals and internationals. We are all just players, working together for a common goal.

I was really impressed by our faculty, some of whom were in their 50s and 60s, yet they gave it their all. They ran with energy and even got injured during training and games, but they kept going. I was encouraged to see and experience our EAST teachers’ exemplary whole-hearted attitudes towards everything they do. The lessons I receive from them never stop, whether in the classroom or out of it.

We did not expect to win, especially as one of the smaller schools. We often struggled to get enough players, and with so few substitutes, many of us had to play harder and longer. Other schools had the luxury of rotating fresh players, but we pushed through. Despite these challenges, we gave it our all. The victory felt great, but what stood out more was the sense of community we built.

Winning was a nice bonus, but the real reward was the shared memories we created, the laughter and support we shared, and the unity that formed. It was a beautiful reflection of what EAST is all about—a diverse community united through shared experiences.

Sports helped us shed the identities we wear in the classroom—teacher, student, or scholar. It stripped away race, nationality, and background. On the field, we were just people striving towards the same goal. It reminded me of the power of community, where unity is found not in our similarities, but in embracing and supporting one another.

Reflecting on the experience, I’m grateful for the opportunity to connect with my classmates and faculty in a different light. In the heat of competition, we found joy, connection, and something much deeper than a trophy. It was a reminder that the greatest rewards often come from the relationships and memories we build along the way.

Reflections of ICG 2025 – Pang Xin Xian (Mdiv Intercultural Studies)

Being a part of the team to organise and host this year’s ICG was a mix of anticipation, challenges, but, in the end, a lot of gratitude. It wasn’t easy, and I was worried from the start. Being inexperienced, the thought of doing a sports event for multiple schools was overwhelming. Doubts kept creeping in—Was this worth the effort? Would everything come together in time? Did we miss out on anything?

Initially, we were nervous about working with the other schools, but it turned out to be really enjoyable and encouraging. Every school willingly pitched in, taking charge of different games and ensuring things ran smoothly. It was clear that everyone wanted ICG to go well—not just for their own teams, but for the whole community. Working together with them, I got to experience what it means to be united as the body of Christ beyond our individual affiliations.

Through it all, the EAST community showed up in big ways. People checked in, shared ideas, offered resources, and most importantly, covered us in prayer and encouragement. Even those not directly involved reminded us that we weren’t alone—that we had people to call on anytime we needed help. In my tired moments, it was the energy and enthusiasm of the community that kept me going. We were also thankful for how readily people agreed to help whenever we reached out.

One of our biggest concerns was the weather, with afternoon thunderstorms forecasted for these two weeks. We had no control over it, but God blessed us with no rain, and just enough cloud cover to give us some relief from the sun. The lovely weather was a huge comfort to me that day (I can’t remember how many times I looked up at the sky and broke out into a grateful smile). It was a reminder that some things are simply beyond our hands, but never beyond His.

There were also moments of unexpected provision—like when someone donated over a thousand bottles of water, or when I randomly found out my neighbor had a truck that could help with logistics. These little but timely details reminded me that God saw every need, even the ones we didn’t voice out. His provision, through people and circumstances, is always more than enough.

Looking through the pictures and videos afterward, I saw how much joy, connection, and fun this event brought to people. Beyond the games, seeing how many of us know one another from other schools was also a reminder of how interconnected we are, working together, albeit in different places, for the Lord. I used to wonder why we even had ICG, especially since I am not a sports enthusiast. But this year, being a part of making it happen changed my perspective. As I saw how it was a time for brothers and sisters in Christ to come together to fellowship, unwind, and enjoy the day, I managed to answer: Yes, it is worth it.

This experience stretched me in ways I didn’t expect, but more than that, it allowed me to lean into God’s grace through His people and provision. I will carry these lessons and memories with me for a long time.

Photo credits: Dr Lau Ying Kheng, Koh Ai Tee, Wong Ee Yuing