CROSSROADS MARCH 2013
who would be by your side during a truly challenging time? Lesli Berggren and Mark Berggren looked out into the Colonial Room that night, and they KNEW. More than 350 people showed up to say, “we are here for you.” At this event, parents wrote letters of encouragement at the Notes to Nils table. Video messages were also captured to be sent to Nils. The SAS Band One Degree North added to the excitement as they played outstanding live tunes. Individuals and businesses generously donated items to be auctioned. Those who attended big-heartedly bid on the items. Over $140,000 was raised for Nils’ care. Some of those who attended have known Nils from the day he was
born here in Singapore; others have never even met Nils. The ballroom was filled with parents, teachers, administrators, and friends, all of whom joined together to let Nils know that he is not alone in this fight. He has a very unique community at SAS and beyond in all of Singapore. The word community is often articulated, but what does it really mean? I think all of those who took part in the “Buzz for Berggren” and “Love, Nils” events experienced true community. They can tell you about the students who missed lunch so they could plan the event. They can tell you about the students who raised huge funds in the name of their friend. They can tell you about the teachers who shaved their heads in front of the Middle School students! They can tell
you about the unique atmosphere at the American Club that night. They can tell you what it was like to hear a Mom and Dad open up their hearts and thank everyone for their support. Those who attended can easily describe the unique community we have at SAS. Students, parents, and staff rallied behind Nils with a show of strength that inspired us all. We cannot take this battle away from Nils, but we can help him fight. He and his family need us. If you would like to find out how you can help, please contact Martha Chaudhry at marthachaudhry@gmail.com. Please continue to show your support and please continue to pray for Nils as he bravely battles lymphoma.
SACAC Sports Overhauls BasketbalL SACAC Sports has recently begun a reboot of its recreational basketball program. Coach Pathman Matialakan has been named Director of Basketball in a move to elevate the basketball program to an even greater height. At 6’7”, Pathman is not an average Singaporean. Along with that towering height he brings with him an expertise legendary in Singapore, and SACAC is happy to have him as leader of the team. Pathman’s association with the game of basketball started when he played in secondary school. He was chosen to represent Singapore at the young age of 18 in international games. When talking with Pathman about his early competitive experience playing basketball for Singapore, he said, “To be wearing my country’s flag on your chest was an honor that will stay with me for the rest of my life.” He went on to represent his country for 14 more years, playing in numerous international and regional competitions. He also played in the NBL, Australia’s professional
basketball league. In 2006, he was drafted by the Singapore Slingers professional basketball team. He was recently recognised during a Slingers’ game at half-time for his efforts in being the first professional basketball player from Singapore to play professionally abroad. Pathman began coaching basketball many years ago as a way to give back to his community. During this time he conducted many basketball clinics and camps all across the island from primary to high school, including international schools. He has been involved with more than 100 schools and institutions. He accepted the role of Director of Basketball for SACAC Sports in late 2012 with the mission to develop the program to include kids of all ages, abilities, and levels. SACAC could not have found a more capable person to lead its basketball program to the next level.
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For further information on SACAC Sports Programs, visit www.sacac.com or contact the SACAC Sports office at 6363 6454.