19 March 2011 - One could immediately tell that it was a hit as the fathers and their children came all “kitted up” and carrying soccer balls and Frisbees—sure signs that they were in it to win it. All in good spirit of course. Mothers were also in attendance to join in the fun and cheer on the teams in an action packed afternoon.

Together, they made it happen. Fathers@PRPS, Pasir Ris Primary School’s Fathers@Schools group, teamed up with SAFRA Tampines to let their Primary Three students and their dads bond over Futsal and Frisbee games in Athletes@Safra.

Pasir Ris Primary’s Operations Manager, Mr Wai Seng Chooi shared that, “This is the first event we are doing with SAFRA and even though this is a Father and Child themed event, the whole family is also involved”. He added that this event is “strategised to reach out based on common interests and needs”.

“Such events also allow the families to rally and bond together,” said Mr Wai.

Such bonding was evident in the SAFRA Gallery Room where excited children and their dads attending the mandatory event briefing, soon wasted no time to group themselves according to their respective sports. Teams were organised and the games were played in a league format so everyone got to meet and mingle. With the unrelenting sun, the organisers reminded everyone to hydrate themselves and mums demanded for sunscreen to be applied. However the fathers themselves were busy discussing tactics with their children.

Onto the Games!

Dad’s experience was pivotal in getting things started. As the children had their game faces on and eager to get things going on both Futsal and Frisbee, the fathers prepared their boys and girls by helping them do warm up exercises, don team colours, as well as test out those winning Frisbee throws.

The starting whistle saw dads kick off and things got into full swing with dads supporting their boys with passes. The rules stated that only the kids could score and stand in goal so dad Rahman dictated play while son Muhd Aqil picked his runs.

Speaking to the dynamic duo at half-time, Mr Rahman, a father of three, shared that the event was a fantastic one that allowed him to be involved in bonding through activities with Aqil. Because of his work commitments, his wife usually attends school functions. “Such opportunities are good because it allows father and son to build on similar interests and bond together. In future, there should also be some mother-child activities so the whole family can be closer” suggested Mr Rahman as they stood together catching their breath. Aqil, thoroughly enjoying himself, nodded in agreement.

"Where's the ball?"	"Never mind the rain, we'll just play on..."

"Come on, son... I need to pass it to you to score!"	"This yellow disc is sapping my power... ugh!"

 

Mr Wai also shared that Pasir Ris Primary has a very understanding and supportive parent body. The school also has many more activities for parents to get involved with their children. He said, “Instead of having a sports day in school, we have an Olympians Day for the lower primary level children. Parents are invited and telematches are held where parents and children will work together.”

“The children love it and parents have a great time too,” said Mr Wai. As for more father-child activities, Mr Wai said that many more activities are being planned for the year with Mr Chan Yeow Yong heading the Fathers@PRPS.

And It Poured...

The sudden change in the weather did little to dampen the spirits as dads and kids could be seen having a grand time out, playing on despite the steady drizzle. The slippery field proved to be a source of laughs, with fathers chuckling with their kids as they slid on the wet grass.

The smiles on the faces of the children were immensely heartwarming as they cheered on their dads who reached for the Frisbees being passed. Mums too lent voice to the action, cheering on the teams.

"Hey dad, is this a spaceship?"	"Use the force, Luke!"

 

Quality time spent

A dad seated barefoot on the sidelines –Mr Ng, had sacrificed his shoes so that his son Keane could wear them and participate in the games, testament of his love. Mr Ng also shared that he brings Keane out to play football at their local park on a regular basis so not being able to play together today was not a missed opportunity.

By the end of the day, tired bodies went home bearing wide smiles and high-fives for an enjoyable competition and a fantastic day out for both fathers and children. Sport truly does help bring people together.

Most importantly, it was valuable quality time spent together with dad.

Just thankful to enjoy a day with dad...	"Fathers@Schools at Pasir Ris Primary Rocks!"

 

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About the Author: The Dads for Life Resource Team comprises local content writers and experts, including psychologists, counsellors, educators and social service professionals, dedicated to developing useful resources for dads.

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