Even before the second semester begun, we, the judokas of NTU, were already back in school. For we had only a brief window of 2 weeks after the conclusion of the examinations to sharpen up our techniques. The inter-tertiary judo competition soon arrived, and our labours were staked onto the table. With much sweat, we managed an admirable 6 medals with our 12 warriors. We have shown that strength does not come in mere numbers.

The semester began with publicity for the school Sports Club. A performance was expected from us for the two-day Sports Expose. We knew that we had to stand out from the other clubs in order to attract new members. And we did.

As the music began, the chatter ceased. Rolling break-falls ended with loud thuds, amplified by the hollow wooden flooring. All eyes were transfixed on the Sports Expose stage. Without much ado, our performers sprang back up, executing throws and sparring in sync with the beat of the rhythm. Passers-by halted as they looked on, jaw dropped, at our senior judokas, who effortlessly accomplished feats that would not seem out of place in an action film. Unsurprisingly, many signed up at the judo booth, seemingly impressed by what they had just seen.

The following week, aspiring judokas-to-be arrived at the dojo, located at SRC Activity Room 1. They were introduced to our coach, and were taught the basics of injury prevention while training. Thereafter, we imparted the much desired techniques, and allowed them for the first time to experience what they had only been able to see on screen, a friendly sparring match.

As the session ended, some left the dojo without a word, while most stayed on to register themselves for additional trainings. An overwhelming half of the new signups were exchange students, from countries as diverse as the Czech Republic and Sweden to the US.

In the spirit of Jigoro Kano, founder of Judo, we warmly welcome them to our judo family.