Ms Lee May Po Remembers .....

“Take your mark…” The horn went off and a group of P1 boys plunged into the pool. I recall that I was immediately captivated by the cherubic boy with a buzz cut who was cutting through the water with such speed, agility and refined strokes. I had no idea then I was staring at a future Olympic Champion.

Fast forward fourteen years and this same boy today has grown into a strapping young man who not only won an Olympic gold but also set a new Olympic record and left the greatest Olympian of all time in his wake.

His former teachers remember him with fondness. His dedication to swimming was evident in his commitment to an intense twice-a-day training programme. Even at a young age, he understood that to do well, no efforts would be spared. He was able to juggle both his swimming commitments and school work well. He had a good learning attitude and was well-mannered and thoughtful. He showed care and concern for his schoolmates, and was well-liked by them.

Over the years, he has gone from strength to strength and achieved outstanding results in the pool. Beyond his many swimming achievements on the regional and world stage, we have seen how he has grown in strength of character in his dedication and pursuit of excellence. He has continued to impress us with his self-discipline, determination and perseverance.

Together with the rest of Singapore, ACS (Junior) is very proud that he has won Singapore’s first Olympic gold at the RIO Olympics 2016. We are just as proud that he has remained grounded and humble. Since his Olympic feat, he has, in his actions and words, demonstrated much heart, sincerity and conviction.

As he works towards his next goal of breaking the World Record in the 100m Butterfly and maintaining his excellent form in the next editions of all the major games, including the Olympic Games in Tokyo in 2020, we wish him the very best for each and every one of his aspirations.

To Joseph Issac Schooling: Always aim high. Push your limits. Never stop believing. The Best Is Yet to Be!

Ms Lee May Po
Head of Department PE, CCA and Aesthetics
ACS (Junior)