Mentor, Brother, Friend

I have known Ziyu for about 9 years. The first time I saw him was at Blk 98 basketball court, didn't really talk to him much. But when the Beattty Sec guys (Juntang, Ming De and company) started coming down more often I started to play ball with them. I knew nothing much about basketball at that time, except for its rules and the simple simple stuff.

Ziyu improved my techniques and skills. He improved me as a player.

I learnt so many things from him and eventually took to playing like him (but of course not as good as him!). I was never as fast and accurate as him. I can remember that I was always very stressed if I'm in the same team as him cos he's quite fierce when he say "把握!". Eventually I got used to it I think, and enjoyed being in the same team as him. But if we are in a different team then I'm the one that guards him because we're about the same height, and needless to say I couldn't guard him well.

We got closer in that period of time when we were Sec 4, when we were both doing the major exams. But we still played ball every Sunday with everyone else, together with the suppers at the Lorong 4 market and talking till it was quite late. Ziyu and I shared many things with each other and also encouraged one another for our exams. I remember once he wanted to talk to me about 9pm during my O level preparations, but my father wanted me to study. So when I brought my book down, Ziyu just sat by and accompanied me and told others not to talk or distract me. I always appreciated that, Ziyu, and it was kinda funny but I was able to study that chapter especially well (ironically I was actually about to laze and sleep when Ziyu came up to my flat and asked for me).

Ziyu has been my "coach" twice, for two main events. Along the way he had always shared tips and advice about basketball too. When I signed up with Panther, Jason and Max for the Nike 3-on-3, Ziyu offered to help coach us, especially me, cos I was the weakest in the squad. I can remember that few tedious hours of training in that Lorong 7 basketball court just below his block, where he taught me the basics of being a Center for the team...the 蓝板球 x 10 without allowing a bounce, the rebound drills, the ABC drills...

The other one was before I joined my JC basketball team. Ziyu brought me around to the common drills for fast-break and lay-ups that school teams usually do so that I can do well in the trials. I did well enough to get into the team, but I don't think I would have if not for Ziyu's "special" coaching that time, as well as his teaching of all that I know in basketball.

Ziyu, all those things that you have taught me, especially these two events, are fondly remembered. The images are still fresh in my mind...

It was a pity that after enrolling into JC I had much less time for basketball here back home in Toa Payoh with them, and I got to talk to Ziyu less and less. When I did play basketball with them, it was rare to see Ziyu due to his injuries or his commitments with work or schoolwork. But everytime when I do see him I will be very happy because he's like a brother to me and I will never forget how he encouraged me and taught me so many things.

I went to the movie - "Harry Potter and the Sorceror's Stone" with Ziyu. It was a pleasant experience to go out with you...thank you for inviting me along with your group of friends. I only wish there was more...

Ziyu, I am so proud of you, that I have a friend like you. You are the inspiration to all of us. Your route to NTU has been tough (and even that is an understatement), and I have always been filled with pride when I tell that to my other friends. You must know it was no easy feat, but you did it...and that is an encouraging fact for all of us.

I had looked forward to seeing you in NTU, my dear friend, and having lunch with you and all that. These can't happen now. But, Ziyu, you will always live in the hearts of all those that love you, of all those you love...all of us.

I will always remember you as my mentor, brother, friend. I will always remember the active, humourous, determined you. Your laughter still rings in my ears. You will not be forgotten, Ziyu.

You have lived a good life, Ziyu, my friend. A fulfilling life to be proud of.

I pray that you will be blessed and be at peace wherever you are...