the eye Singapore American High School
Nov. 23, 2005/Vol. 25 No. 4
The play within is the thing in “Noises Off”
In Act Two of ‘Noises OfF,” a play within a play, the audience sees the action backstage as the actors’ personal relationships take precedence over their script. Backstage, and onstage, are senior Mark Cabliing, junior Sneh Shah, senior Lexi Kirwin, sophomore Chelsea Curto, senior Daniel Dugard and junior Eric Brisson. Photo by Jerry Szombathy Story by Alex Lloyd
SAS has plans as fear of bird flu pandemic spreads
One hundred and seventeen people getting the flu might not sound like much of a pandemic.
After all, more students get sick at school when a cold goes around. But the fact that 60 of those 117 people died–a mortality rate of more than 50 percent–worries scientists and governments around the world. Worried them so much that President Bush recently released a US$7.1 billion plan to prepare for bird flu. US $2.8 billion of this amount was invested in a search for new vaccines. On Wednesday, Nov. 16, SAS parents met with Dr. Thomas Yun, chief medical officer of the U.S. Embassy in Singapore, to discuss the bird flu threat. The school has begun to formulate its own plan to prepare for a possible pandemic. “We’re concerned enough to put procedures in place,” said Superintendent Bob Gross, who helped to create the plan. “We can’t just put our heads in the sand and
pretend nothing’s happening.” Since the bird flu has only been passed from bird to human in rare cases, many wonder why scientists are getting riled up. The first and most convincing reason comes from a lab that revived the 1918 flu virus which caused a pandemic that killed 25 million people in six months. The scientists found that the virus was bird flu. The second is that the virus mutates easily, and scientists fear that it could mutate into a strain that spreads from human to human. If this happens, scientists predict another pandemic. If deaths occur at the same rate as the 1918 flu pandemic, up to 350 million people could die. The virus would spread quickly because humans would have little immunity against a virus that originates in birds. Most students interviewed by The Eye expressed little concern. “There hasn’t been any kind of human-to-human transmission so I don’t really see the need to worry yet,” freshman Brad Cumming said. “If there was an outbreak like that somewhere in Asia, of course I’d be concerned, but nothing’s really happened yet.”
Senior Issa Wood had similar feelings. “It doesn’t appear to be particularly dangerous at the moment,” Wood said. “The chances of mutation [to a human strain] are quite low and the current number of cases doesn’t seem to support a pandemic.”
Teachers to use Blackboard in event of school shutdown
The school’s policy is ‘better safe than sorry.’ If a person in the SAS community is infected with the flu, and school closed, the administration hopes to continue all classes through the Blackboard system. “We’ve been doing some testing, and we’re reasonably satisfied that the system could handle that kind of load,” High School Principal Paul Chmelik said. “There have been a few glitches, but overall we’re pretty satisfied with the system.” Gross said that any concern regarding Blackboard use in such an event would not be with the system itself, but with the faculty’s training. “I’m not sure the staff is wellschooled enough to use it,” Gross said. “It’s the human dimension that I’m most concerned about. That’s why we’ve had a bunch of workshops
lately.” Included in those workshops was a smorgasbord of technology classes during the teacher in-service day. English teacher Nanette Ruhter agrees that some teachers have problems with the system, but she doen’t think it’s too hard to use. “Most of us have been using Blackboard for so long that we’re all pretty confident with it,” Ruhter said. Ruhter, who moved here in 2003 from Taipei American School just after the SARS scare there closed the school, saw firsthand how school closure can affect communication. “I couldn’t get in contact with anyone,” Ruhter said. “I left without really saying goodbye to a lot of my students and friends in the faculty because there just wasn’t any way to get in contact with them all.” Having seen Taipei’s reaction to SARS, Rhuter thinks that Singapore residents benefit from good government planning. “I’m not even really concerned about the bird flu because I know if something happens the Singapore government will already have a plan
See BIRD FLU on page 2
Physical comedy, improvisations keep audience laughing
By Nicole Schmitz Not even acute appendicitis could stop the rehearsals of the play “Noises Off”. Littered with misunderstandings and slamming doors, Michael Frayn’s British comedy, “Noises Off,” is about a dysfunctional stage company that puts on a production called “Nothing On.” The prize-winning playwright who won a Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy in 1982 and was nominated for a Tony Award in 1984 for “Best Play,” Frayn tries to show the audience that the story behind the scenes is sometimes more interesting than what goes on in it. Act 1 introduces the audience to the cast of “Nothing On” at their dress rehearsal, hours before their opening night, rushing to put the production together. In Act 2, the audience watches the actors struggle through the performance onstage one month later while pursuing their own agendas offstage, using little dialogue and lots of action to develop the relationships behind the scenes.
See GOOD NOISE on page 7
2 news
Nov. 23, 2005
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the Eye
Chmelik says he’s ready to jump to head of school
Chmelik moving on after six years at SAS By Ted Ho Maddy Hewitt was the first of four prospective principals that visited the Singapore American School last week. During her threeday session here, she attended a series of interviews designed to assess her potential as a future principal of the high school. The school received applications from 23 prospective candidates applying for the vacant position of High School principal. The school narrowed those 23 candidates into four legitimate candidates that have had prior experience in dealing with high schools. The potential candidates include current Deputy Principal Dave Norcott, Maddy Hewitt of Cairo American College, Tom Oden from the American Community School of Beirut and William Hart from Leominister high school of Massachusetts. During Hewitt’s brief visit of the school, she was able to tour the campus, have lunch with the administration staff, meet with high school faculty and discuss various issues with student representatives. The schedules of other candidates are similar to that of Hewitt’s. Paul Chmelik the high school’s current principal officially resigned last month and will leave at the end of the 2005-2006 school year to pursue a position as a superintendent abroad. “I’m interested in pursuing a superintendent’s position and experiencing a different cultural experience,” Chmelik said. Chmelik has applied to four schools in the following cities: Dhaka, Kuala Lumpur, Sao Paolo, and Casablanca. The Casablanca American School and the International School of Kuala Lumpur have listed Chmelik as a finalist for the position. Chmelik’s next job will be his third overseas posting. He came to SAS from Cairo American College in 2000. Chmelik says that he will miss the
school, the students and Superintendent cafeteria chef Mr. Hoe’s Bob Gross said. Szechwan chicken. “Mr. Chmelik has “SAS will always be been highly visible special to me because on campus and is my son graduated from interested in what here,” Chmelik said, “I students are doing. have fond memories of Hopefully the next the students.” principal will do Chmelik said he that.” has ultimately enjoyed Gross said that the his six-year term at the qualities the school school, especially the is looking for in a students and the faculty new principal include that he was able to work intellect, passion for with. his or her job, interest “The students are in student activities great, we have a strong and strong human faculty, and it has been relationship skills. fun to be part of the new Students in building,” Chmelik said. organizations such as “I’ve also enjoyed the the student council interaction with other expressed concern as IASAS schools and all to whether or not the the opportunities have new principal would been really cool.” be supportive of the During the six-years various student led that Chmelik has been activities. here he has witnessed “A principal will many positive changes not be successful to the school. if he’s not a good “There have been listener; he must be many changes and able to listen to the enhancements to student body,” Gross schools curricular and said. “The students extracurricular activities need someone that over the last few years,” they can respect.” Principal Paul Chmelik at this year’s IASAS soccer tournament.The last time SAS hosted IASAS soccer was in the fall of 2000. Photo by: Brian Riady Chmelik said, “The After students and quality of the faculty has teachers meet the new all gather together.” increased, the students candidates and give Students were saddened at the feedback, Gross will be the one who at IASAS have improved and the communication between the school prospect that Chmelik would be gives the final decision on the new and families have been strenthened.” leaving so soon. principal. “Mr. Chmelik acts as if he’s Chmelik also witnessed the “Although I have the final say,” student body grow from around 800 known you for 10 years. It’s just Gross said, “I will get input from students when he first arrived to over amazing,” junior Shruti Shekar said. all of the groups before making a “If I wanted another principal I would decision.” 1000 student this year. “Despite the growth of the want he or she to be exactly like Mr. Chmelik has just a few words of school, I hope students can gather in Chmelik.” wisdom for his replacement. “If we could get Mr. Chmelik to a nice setting in the future,” Chmelik “Try to get out and enjoy the said, “I hope there is a solution to the change his mind there would nothing students and faculty as much as auditorium problem so students can that would make me more happy,” possible.”
BIRD FLU: Students urged to take precautions Continued from page 1
in place,” she said. “I think people may even become a little over reliant on the government because they handle these issues so well.”
Singapore has begun stockpiling Tamiflu as part of its bird flu plan
Singapore already has a plan, much like SAS’s, with a number of triggers and responses to those triggers. Singapore is stockpiling Tamiflu, a medication meant to reduce the symptoms of bird flu. If Singapore sees the need, the plan includes vaccinating the entire nation. Wood is doubtful that any kind of plan can make a difference. “There’s not that much you can do if it is, as they say it will be, a pandemic,” Wood said. “When you’re in contact with so many people every day, there’s little
chance we’ll be able to avoid it.” Wood also said Singapore does not currently have enough Tamiflu to cover the population, and that the medication is only really available to well-connected people in the community. “If Tamiflu were available on a local level then perhaps we would be able to do something,” he said. “Planning on a local scale won’t do anything, only a concerted national or international effort can change the possible impact of a pandemic.” There are also questions as to whether Tamiflu will even be effective. There is evidence that for the medication to work, the infected person already would have to be taking anti-flu medicine. The vaccine may not even work because the human strain will have different properties than the current bird flu. Effective or not, though,
Singaporeans are still stockpiling. A call to the International Medical Center in Tanglin Shopping Center revealed that there is a waiting list for Tamiflu, but that the drug is currently sold out. Some students who got in early were able to get their hands on the drug. Anna Allen’s father is a doctor. “My dad bought it and told us to take it,” Allen said. “It makes me scared because as a doctor he knows more than the average person about it and he’s asking us to get vaccinated.”
World Health Organization assures safety in eating properly cooked poultry
Anushka Bharvani stopped eating chicken when she first heard of news of the bird flu just before summer vacation. “I didn’t want to get infected so
I just stopped eating chicken to be careful,” Bharvani said. “I also just thought it was gross to be eating chicken that had been infected.” The World Health Organization (WHO) has assured that the virus cannot be passed through food as long as the chicken is well cooked. There are mixed messages. The Singapore bird flu site (www. birdflu.gov.sg) says in their bird flu briefing that citizens shouldn’t worry much about the bird flu, and that there is no need to take Tamiflu, but the existence of the website shows bird flu is a major issue. The Singapore Government gives these recommendations: • When traveling, avoid areas where bird flu is prevalent • Avoid direct contact with birds • Wash hands frequently and maintain a high level of hygiene
Two seniors win athletic scholarships to U.S. colleges
Students offered spots on U. of Kansas and UCLA swim and tennis teams
By Nicole Liew Years of intense swim practices, countless laps around the pool, and hard work have finally paid off for senior Whitney Taylor. Taylor received a swimming scholarship to the University of Kansas, and is one of the future members of the Kansas Jayhawks women’s swim team. The Kansas swimming and diving team recently placed 24th in the College Swimming Coaches Association of America (CSCAA) Division I Top 25 list. Getting a swimming scholarship is a long process that begins shortly after junior year. The university looks at the student’s swim times and laps. If they are impressed, the university informs the swimmer that they are interested and sends an invitation to come on a recruiting trip. The university hosts the student and pays for all expenses involved in the trip. Taylor received the opportunity to explore the campus and meet her future teammates. The last step was when the university interviewed Taylor in order to come to their decision of whether or not they wanted to accept her into the swim team. Taylor’s obvious dedication to swimming and her excellent times and laps provided her with a swimming scholarship to the University of Kansas. “It’s really a big honor to be recruited in general.” Taylor said. Another senior, Sarah Yang, also received an athletic scholarship to a university. Yang recently received a scholarship to the University of California in Los Angeles. Yang received an email last week from the university telling her she had earned a spot on the tennis team. UCLA’s tennis team placed third in last year’s rankings. “I’m really really excited!” Yang said. Receiving a scholarship made Taylor feel extremely honored and she is very excited to begin attending the University of Kansas next year. “I’ve always hoped getting a scholarship. I’ve always kind of known I was going to get one but I didn’t know where.” Taylor said while laughing. Taylor and Yang both feel extremely lucky because they already know where they are going to attend college this early in their senior year. Many seniors have yet to find out where they will be attending university. “I’m really excited, it’s really nice knowing where I’m going to college already, and knowing I have a swim team I can have fun with.” Taylor said.
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news 3
Nov. 23, 2005
Slow fundraising for South Asia earthquake picks up More than $9,000 raised for earthquake relief efforts in South Asia, with more rolling in from raffle, Peace Concert
The earthquake’s effects were felt in Afghanistan and India, but damage was concentrated in Pakistan. Map from: United Nations Development Program
By Rhoda Severino Seventy-four thousand are dead in Pakistan, more than half are children, and the death toll is still rising. Three million people are homeless, thousands are injured, and winter is approaching. To date, the Oct. 8 earthquake is the worst natural disaster to hit Pakistan. When none of the service clubs initiated a response to the devastating 7.6 magnitude earthquake that affected India, Pakistan and Afghanistan, a group of club representatives and interested students formed the Earthquake Relief Committee with the help of their sponsor, Principal Paul Chmelik. “How it evolved was that there were a lot of requests from the central administration that high school students consider leading the efforts,” Chmelik said. “We got together and determined how to combine our efforts to help the cause.” Peace Initiative, Global Giving, South Asian Society and the Independent Performing Artists Union (IPAU) expressed interest in helping with the fundraising. Other clubs have since come forward saying that they would like to donate to the fund, but so far only the Broadcasting Club has contributed. Junior Julia Knight, one of two chairs of the Earthquake Relief Committee, said that the money earned from the fundraising would go to Children’s Relief International and the International School of Islamabad Relief Project. The committee chose not to donate to much larger and well-known non-governmental organizations such as the Red Cross or Oxfam, because the money would go to these organizations’ projects world-wide instead of being directly concentrated on the South Asian earthquake. Red donation boxes, similar to the blue boxes used for the recent
Hurricane Katrina fundraising, have been placed in several locations in the cafeteria and the High School office. There is also a clothing drive for warm winter clothing to be donated to Children’s Relief International. Donations can be left at the High School office. In addition to the donation boxes and the clothing drive, the Earthquake Relief Committee will also be selling $5 raffle tickets for a laptop, a Creative Zen MP3 player, a digital camera, a Nokia phone and other prizes. These prizes were donated by various service clubs. Members of Peace Initiative, Global Giving and IPAU will also be selling raffle tickets, which will be drawn during Peace Concert on Nov. 18. The Earthquake Relief Committee aims to raise $20,000 by the end of the fundraising drive on Nov. 23. As the Eye went to press on Wednesday, Nov. 16, the Earthquake Relief Committee has raised $8,992.56 from all four schools. This did not account for raffle ticket sales.
Corrections In the Oct. 21 article “Elite Schools drop APs as SAS adds AP World History,” a paragraph stated that “Social Studies teacher Dr. Dale Smith believes that most students no longer take APs for the right reason.” The word “most” should have been “some”. The Eye apologizes for this mistake. In the Nov. 11 article “Vikings and Buldogs face off during homecoming game,” it was reported that math teacher Roy Tomlinson took sophomore Huei-Yu Lin to the hospital. It was English teacher Kim Tay that took her. The Eye apologizes for this mistake.
The Oct. 8 earthquake measured 7.6 in magnitude and was concentrated in the dispusted territory of Kashmir. Map from:The BBC
Students stricken by dengue fever
More than 19 people have died of Dengue fever in Singapore this year. Photo from:Wikipedia
By Jeff Hamilton The muscle pain could be from that extra tough practice. The hot weather and tomorrow’s test might be the source of the headache and fever. But many students and members of the administration are now realizing that these symptoms could also be signs of something much more serious. Dengue fever in Singapore has already manifested in well over twelve thousand individuals since the beginning of 2005. This year, the government raised awareness about the threat posed by dengue fever. Many are now accepting that SAS is not immune to the possible threat of dengue fever. Several students contracted the virus this year and last year. “I thought I was just sick with something normal,” said senior Braden Betts. “I didn’t realize it was dengue at first.” Betts suffered from dengue fever towards the end of last year. Dengue left Betts in the hospital for several days. “I almost needed a blood transfusion,” Betts said. “I had zero
The mosquito Aedes aegypti transmits dengue fever. Photo from: Center for Disease Control
energy and no appetite.” Senior Liz Bowers also suffered from dengue fever during the first week of May last year. “I stayed home for a week,” Bowers said. “I felt awful. I could not get out of bed for the whole week.” Like Betts, Bowers also suffered from a loss of appetite and energy. Both claimed to have caught the flu-like illness from mosquitoes on campus. The school has been quick to react to cases like Betts and Bowers and other dengue cases. “We currently spend about $800 a month on just basic pest control,” said Anthony Wong, director of facilities and services. “That is about 10 thousand dollars a year if you do the math.” Included in the basic pest control is mosquito fogging, the frequency of which depends on the threat and the calendar explained Wong. “A year or two ago we would fog twice a month and towards the end of last year we would fog twice a week,” Wong said. Wong believes that one of the best ways to tackle the problem of dengue
fever is to prevent mosquitoes from breeding on campus. He also acknowledges that the campus’s size and location make the task a lot more challenging. “We want to keep as many eyes and ears open to aide us in our efforts,” he said. Those most involved with protecting the school from the airborne threat of mosquitoes are also in charge of protecting the campus from other outside intruders. Wong explained that while the school depends on the watchful eye of all those on campus, it is the security staff that are the most helpful. Since the guards already do nightly checks, the administration decided they could look out for mosquito breeding. Mosquitos are especially attracted to large pools of water. It is in these pools of water that they release their eggs, thus creating even more carriers of the virus. Despite the threat, Betts still feels safe on campus. “I am definitely more fearful [of the virus], but I try not to worry.”
4 features
Nov. 23, 2005
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MySpace is newest Internet trend among students By Kelsey Heiner Some students have diaries. Some students have journals. And some students have MySpace. Advertised as a private online community where you can share photos, journals and interests with your growing network of friends, MySpace.com came into existence two years ago. The free service provides its users with personal webpages where information about themselves can be posted. Pictures and surveys can also be uploaded to the web-page. Users can browse and search MySpace for other sites and add them as “friends.” Friends can comment on pictures and post personal comments in a bulletin area for all to see. With pictures and personal information so easily accessible over the internet, the privacy of online communities has come into question. With little censoring, revealing pictures and inappropriate comments can be posted. Although MySpace.com offers the option to make your web-page “private,” most students opt to make their sites public and visible world-wide. “I guess what I wonder is do people realize that their sites can be seen by everyone, not just their friends?” counselor Dale Ford said. “While the vast majority of students can deal with seeing sometimes extremely personal confessions, some students may be offended by either the content or ideas expressed,” he said. “Not everyone has the same moral standards.” “However, few things in life are only just good or just bad,” he added while talking about whether or not MySpace is a good outlet for students to express themselves. “MySpace is very public and the personal information some people put on their sites can be scary,” junior Sophie Greene said. “You wonder why they put that information on a public site and why they even want people to know that kind of stuff about them.” “Unless their personal stuff is artistic, I think it is a little desperate
and sometimes disgusting to just post it on the internet,” sophomore Natalie Favati said. Extreme usage of MySpace has been labeled the “MySpace addiction.” “I wish I wasn’t so addicted, but it is really interesting to look at other people’s sites,” Favati said. “I don’t use it as an outlet to express myself personally. I just like the comments and pictures.” “I am on MySpace two to three hours a night but I’m not using it all the time,” junior Alexandra Demitrack said. “It’s another form of communication instead of messaging or instant messaging.” “I guess you could say I am addicted,” she said. “But I still find time to get my homework done.” Other students have become less attached to the online community. “I use MySpace less than an hour a day to keep in touch with my friends in the states. But I am not addicted to it,” senior Tryfon Christoforou said. “Just staring at a computer screen gets boring,” Christoforou said. “You are basically talking to the same people on msn while leaving them comments on MySpace. It doesn’t make sense.” “Instead of doing their homework, kids are spending hours on MySpace,” Greene said. “They sign on when they get home after school and the next thing they know, it is midnight and they haven’t started any of their work.” Students use MySpace to keep in touch with other SAS students who have left Singapore. “I have been talking to a lot of people through MySpace that I haven’t seen or heard from in ten years as well as people that have moved within the past two years,” Greene said. “It is an easy way to keep in touch with people without having to wait for a good time to call or chat online.” “MySpace makes it really easy to stay in touch with my friends and cousins. It can be hard keeping in touch with e-mails, and MySpace comments are a fast and easy solution,” Favati agreed.
SAS Students Wrote:
Who I’d Like to Meet: “Angelina Jolie” “MY HUSBAND” “Someone special :)” “An oompa loompa” “Chris Martin” “Anyone and everyone, including you.” “Jesus, Sean aka the nibbler” “You and your poppa... But mostly your poppa.” “I wish I could hang around with Leonardo DaVinci because he is my art inspiration. Also I wanna meet Johnny Depp because he is my acting idol.” “The creator of puppy chow.”
In their words... 4
“I have had mixed emotions about my hair...what should I do? Keep it the way it is... Keep it growing or get it cut or trimmed or something...” “I’m always online? You wouldn’t know that unless YOU WERE TOO! bahah. You’re addicted my friend.” “Woohoo, first time I’m leaving you a comment! haha too bad you’re sitting right next to me, but it’s all good.”
“Now, when you’re 50 and log onto this, you’re going to remember me.” “Your Weakness: Girls. Your Fears: Nothing, I’m an animal.” “Your Weakness: Sweet stuff, Chocolate. Your Fears: Tomatoes.” “Your Weakness: People crying. Your Fears: Overly happy stuff... oh, and worms.”
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features 5
Nov. 23, 2005
Eating disorders findwebsites their place in cyberspace Pro-eating disorder umsunj cyberspace Tips & Tricks
Food Information
Workouts
Thinspiration
Articles
BMI Calculator
Discussion Board
Guestbook
Links
::MISSION STATEMENT:: “Neither I, nor this site, are trying to help anyone kill themselves... ANOREXIA NERVOSA IS NOT A LIFESTYLE CHOICE. You will *never* hear me say that. Anyone who believes that it is is wrong. Sorry. If you are indeed anorexic, you have no control over your mind, and can not make that kind of choice over what you put into your body. You crave control, and think that by doing this you are indeed in control, but in fact, you have less control than you ever imagined. This sounds like a anti-statement, but hell, it’s true. I even hate the term “ana” because it takes the edge of the seriousness of the disease - makes it conversational. Makes it the in thing. makes it okay. THIS SITE IS NEVER MEANT TO TEACH PEOPLE HOW TO BE ANOREXIC. I don’t think it’s something that you can learn anyway. And even if the tips on distracting yourself can get you to skip a meal or two one day, that does not an eating disorder make. I don’t want anyone here who wants to “lose weight”. I do not want anyone here who thinks they are fine but could stand to “lose a couple for their boyfriends”. Tips are to give you fresh ideas on how to stay on track so that you don’t fall into a depression and kill yourself - not to teach you how to “not eat”...” - Excerpt from a pro-ana website disclaimer By Laura Imkamp and Priyanka Dev If you are not anorexic, do not enter. If you are recovering from anorexia, do not enter. If you are looking for a quick-fix diet, do not enter. This is not a lifestyle choice, it is an illness. Almost all pro-eating disorder sites make it clear from the beginning: the site is directed toward people suffering from an eating disorder, and for them only. Anyone else can enter if they like, as long as they are prepared for what they’ll see. Though few people without eating disorders are aware of these pro-anorexia (ana) or probulimia (mia) websites, anorexics in particular are likely to be drawn to them. Middle school counselor Dawn Betts said that pro-ana sites are more common than pro-mia sites because anorexics think about food so much more. To them, it becomes an obsession and they “constantly need reinforcement.” Bulimics tend to be more secretive, so they are less likely to make a website about their experiences. Some website creators fabricate “letters from Ana and Mia,” and some write pep talks to their visitors to encourage further unhealthy practices. Almost all provide tips and tricks to lose weight faster, tell what foods have the fewest calories, and give pointers on how to hide the disorder from family, friends and medical professionals. “It encourages them with ways to get around the system and cheat medical professionals,” said Evelyn Boon, senior psychologist at the Singapore General Hospital Eating Disorder Program. The sites include food information, workouts and links to more pro-eating disorder sites. They offer what they call ‘thinspiration’ – photos of skinny models and actresses, and sometimes even emaciated women in the end stages of an eating disorder, when they are nothing but skin and bone “The ones with the photographs are the most dangerous,” Betts said. “[Readers] get this warped sense of
what’s OK.” Senior Lexi Kirwin, who recovered from previous eating disorders, visited the websites in order to get a better perspective for an Eye interview. “I don’t think that visiting the sites can cause someone to develop an eating disorder, but for people that are suffering, it’s awful,” she said. “You need someone telling you how dangerous it is, not how to get better at losing weight.” She said that the photos and sites are not only triggering for someone battling anorexia or bulimia, but capable of sending those recovering into relapse. ”I remember thinking and feeling those things [mentioned on the site] and being happy,” Kirwin said. “[Visiting those sites] makes you want to feel how they feel again. It’s like a club I used to belong to and want to get back into.” Boon also said that the websites were dangerous for recovered patients to look at. “People recovering are trying to find a reason to go back and the sites give them that reason,” Boon said. “When they are trying to come to terms with their healthy weight gain, they are very competitive, and they want to compete [with the people in the pictures.]” Adam Road Hospital psychiatrist, Dr. Ken Ung, disagreed with Kirwin and Boon. Ung said that rather than triggering anorexics, the photos “may have some benefit,” because they disgust potential anorexics. Sometimes this can even lead a person toward recovery. Clinics may use photographs and videos of the patient to show them what they really look like as opposed to how they see themselves in the mirror. “They’re more accurate [in judging their body] when confronted with objective media or photos,” Ung said. Kirwin said the effect of the photographs on her mentality depended on the sites. “I never wanted to be grotesquely thin,” ‘she said. “The sick [photographs] turn me off, but the beautiful models that look good are definitely a trigger.”
Ung also said that the web pages have very little influence on anorexics or bulimics because they often realize that many of the sites go overboard. He said that dieting, parents, friends, and influences by the media like newspaper or magazine articles and even talk shows like “Oprah” “ironically trigger the patient more [than the websites].” After looking at the websites, Kirwin also said that some of them were extreme. “Some of the information is ludicrous. Just people going over the top,” Kirwin said. “The media is definitely worse.” Still, Ung conceded that a minority of his patients could potentially get sucked into the websites and worsen their disorder. “Eating disorder patients are highly suggestible and often very vulnerable,” he said. “The sites have had a small effect in the sense that [looking at them] messes up the patients’ minds.” But when it comes to the tips and tricks offered by the websites, both Ung and Boon agree that anorexics and bulimics have, most likely, already thought of those on their own. “A lot of patients are doing [what the sites suggest] already, but what checking them does is it affirms them,” Boon said. “Just like we check things with our friends, they check things with the sites.” Disclaimers on the first page of the websites make it clear that they are intended for visitors already suffering from a disorder, and not those interested in developing one. “You can’t try to develop an eating disorder, it just creeps up on you without realizing it,” Kirwin said. “Some [of the sites] seemed like they wanted help and others just didn’t.” The sites, like ‘blogrings’ and groups on Livejournal, Xanga and Myspace, also provide a sort of support network for anorexics and bulimics. “Their discussion [of the illness] normalizes the illness,” Boon said. Jessica Reaves, a writer for Time.com, pointed to the growth of the internet as a cause of concern.
An article by Reaves on Time.com on July 31, 2001 said: “Anorexia demands absolute, single-minded dedication. It’s exhausting and it can be extraordinarily lonely. That’s where technology comes in. Thanks to the wonders of the internet, anorexics and would-be anorexics around the globe can access more than 400 websites designed solely for them,” Reaves wrote. The article said that such sites give good insight into the world of anorexics and eating disorders, not only because of the content, but also by the language used. “I think [medical professionals] need to be looking at them,” Kirwin said. “They’re going to be out there either way, so why not take advantage of them.” “It’s all well and good to learn out of a textbook,” she added, “but if you can get it right from the source, then go there.” In the Time.com story, Vivian Meehan, president and founder of the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, said that “some of these sites are worded in a way that indicates the hosts do want help.” Betts said that unless the creator of the website or blog was identified, the chances that it might be seen as a cry for help are low. “It’s more of a support thing than a call for help. It’s a way to express themselves,” she said. “Most girls with eating disorders have problems expressing themselves.” Kirwin said that the personal ones that included things like poetry relating to the disorder seemed like they were trying to get someone to help, while other sites were an outlet for exchanging information about losing more weight. Except for Betts, all psychologists, counselors and students interviewed for this story had never looked at these websites before. Some had never even heard of them, and some only knew of them through patients or friends. “I’ve tended to just avoid investigating [the sites],” high school counselor Frieda Dietrich said. “I don’t know why.”
Thinspiration: The following photographs are taken from actual “thinspiration” galleries. Some are sorted under the title “hardcore bones,” while others are among photos of runway and advertisement models.
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Nov. 23, 2005
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the Eye
Everyone is entitled to my opinion– a student speaks his mind The week before last was unusual. There were classes on Monday and Wednesday, but not on Tuesday. Tuesday and Thursday were public holidays— Diwali on Tuesday for most Hindus, but Deepavali to Singapore’s Hindus. Thursday was Hari Raya Puasa and Joseph Sarreal Friday was an inservice day for teachers. What could have been a relaxing long weekend turned into a college apps marathon for many seniors. I’ve been hearing complaints about time constraints, especially now that college apps are due. Some students say there simply aren’t enough hours in a day to complete homework, study and chat with their friends on MSN for two hours. I have a great idea. Stop spending so much time complaining on blogs. Try a little less Myspace and a lot
more “estudiando.” When it comes to TV shows like “The OC” and “One Tree Hill”, students forget all about their limited time and flock to their TV’s like sailors to Sirens. Perhaps Newton Minnow, former Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission said it best in a speech in 1961, “When television is bad, nothing is worse…I can assure you that you will observe a vast wasteland.” One thing I do appreciate about TV shows is that I haven’t seen anyone with their collars popped. Popped collars have made a comeback recently. Why a comeback? They first emerged in the 1950’s, originating in New England boarding schools and Ivies. Personally, I hate popped collars. I hate the whole preppy look, and I’m not alone. In September, a nightclub in Washington D.C. implemented a new dress code. The standard
“no shirt, no service” policy was augmented with a “turned down” collar requirement for entry. Like-minded students at Virginia Tech created the Anti-Popped Collar Club, promoting healthy collar practices. This club, which is dedicate to the “fight against popped collars,” recommend wearing a scarf or turtle neck to those who pop their collars to keep their necks warm and to “stop trying so hard” to those who want to look cool. The collars on polo shirts were meant to be kept down. By the way, is F4 breaking up? Just kidding, I don’t listen to Taiwanese boy bands. What troubles me about this music group is not their attention to their physical features--their pandering to metrosexuality, their unusually titled songs like “Love Loves You”, but their strong appeal among women in the 30-49 years old demographic group. These “aunties” often rival the prepubescent females that constitute the fan base of Taiwanese boy bands. If your
parents started listening to Avril Lavigne, I think you’d worry too. If your mom or dad starts singing the lyrics to “Complicated,” slowly back away. On to school news. The 50th Anniversary activities went well. It was nice to see the entire school assembled out on the field for something other than an evacuation drill. The general consensus was that it was too hot outside and while I certainly appreciate the great job administrators do for our school, I thought the line “Celebrate administrators” was Orwellian. Good job though guys. Only a few glitches marked a highly coordinated formation that could be described as North Koreanesque. A few students flashed the finger at the helicopter, and, in what can only be described as a “wardrobe malfunction,” some students chose to wear white, even though there were constant reminders to put something blue on. I hope that the mathematicians and the custodians,
who toiled so vigorously to organize this event, get some sort of special recognition. Now, here’s sports. Athletic success isn’t barred by any so-called “curses” at our school. SAS’s cross country, soccer, and volleyball teams won 5 out of a possible 6 gold medals, with the girls’ volleyball team taking silver. I overheard some students criticizing the girls’ volleyball team for “only” winning silver, and I’m a little perplexed. They won second place with a relatively new team. What’s even more amazing is our school’s yearly dominance of the regional athletic scene. Go us. Some final advice. Seniors, don’t stress out about college apps, you’ll finish in time. And whoever is taking the library’s copy of the AP Stats book is really bugging me. Put it back when you’re done so that I don’t have to play “Dora, the Explorer” looking for it. One last thing, unless you have to brush that “dirt off your shoulder” keep that collar down.
Insults aimed at IASAS soccer competitors fail good fan test This year’s IASAS Soccer Tournament hosted here on campus was a great event. Our teams performed brilliantly and deserved to win gold medals for their efforts. I was also very impressed with their collective and individual s p o r t s m a n s h i p . Paul Chmellik They showed up well as athletes and as representatives of their school in terms of talent and demeanor. I was – and am – very proud of them. I was also delighted and somewhat pleasantly surprised by the spirit of the fans present at the games – particularly on the afternoon and evening of the championship
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games. The large number of fans, the drums in the background, the colorful uniforms, the nigh perfect weather - it all made for quite the spectacle. When students ran onto the field after the final girls’ and boys’ games to congratulate the players it was a wonderfully spontaneous moment. Even the most jaded SAS student had to think that scene was pretty cool. Then a bit of reality set in. After the girls’ game, the coach from the Manila team talked to Mr. Combes. Apparently, some of the SAS fans on the sidelines had been less than cordial to her players. “Kick her in the head!” and “You suck!” were some of the comments passed on. Bummer – the good vibes bubble had burst. Apologies
Singapore American High School 40 Woodlands Street 41 Republic of Singapore 738547 Staff: (65) 6363-3404 x537 Adviser: (65) 6363-3404 x539 Fax: (65) 6363-6443 eye@sas.edu.sg
Editors-in-chief: Lau Laura Imkamp, Alex Lloyd News editor: Joseph Sarreal, Ted Ho Op/Ed editor: Jeff Hamilton, Denise Hotta Features editor: Priyanka Dev A&E editor: Amber Bang, Rhoda Severino Sports editor: Kelsey Heiner Photo editor: Sam Lloyd Reporters: Amber Bang, Priyanka Dev, Jeff Hamilton, Kelsey Heiner, Ted Ho, Denise Hotta, Laura Imkamp, Simreen Kaur, Michelle Lee, Nicole Liew, Alex Lloyd, Sam Lloyd, Barbara Lodwick, Karan Parikh, Joseph Sarreal, Nicole Schmitz, Rhoda Severino, Ravi Shanmugam, Catherine Ward Adviser: Mark Clemens Assistant adviser: Judy Agusti The Eagle Eye is the student newspaper of the Singapore American School. All opinions stated within these pages are those of their respective writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Singapore American School, its board of governors, PTA, faculty or administration. Comments and suggestions can be sent to the Eagle Eye via the Internet at eye@sas.edu.sg. At the authorʼs request, names can be withheld from publication. Letters will be printed as completely as possible. The Eagle Eye reserves the right to edit letters for reasons of taste and space.
were offered and disappointment professional player has to develop thick skin fast – to say nothing about rolled in. What to do? The first thing the officials – who consider “you’re was to acknowledge that although a bum!” and “get contacts!” to be we (admin., coaches, Ms. Molchan veritable love taps compared to what and Mr. Combes) spend a good deal they often get. So what is the expectation of high of time explaining to our athletes what it means to be a good sport, school fans, of SAS fans? Here’s we apparently haven’t sent a clear the deal: you can be loud, spirited, do cartwheels and message about what bang drums; you it means to be a good “We apparently can develop cheers sports fan. The matter can be haven’t sent a clear and spirit songs and whistle and confusing. Take a look message about applaud till your at almost any college or professional sports what it means to be hands go numb. event – in person a good sports fan.” You can come up with nicknames and or on T.V. – and it slogans, flags and appears that anything goes. You pay your money and you banners and dress up like eagles. get to say what you want: raucous In fact, I hope you do – as long as chants, obscene gestures, complaints it is about positive encouragement against your lineage – any college or to our athletes and doesn’t involve
negative comments to the opposing players or officials. Anything else doesn’t do us credit and doesn’t fit with what we believe is the true spirit of high school competition. There is honorable and not honorable and sending negative comments in the direction of opposing players and officials (let the coaches register a complaint if they have a concern) isn’t honorable. We have worked really hard these past years to show up at IASAS and at any competition as talented and well-behaved athletes. Now I am asking all of you to make sure you are spirited and well-behaved fans as well. Sorry, Manila. It won’t happen again. See you at the IASAS Basketball Tournament in February. We’ll all be spirited and good fans then. Now we know.
staff editorial
Reporter right, but story incomplete
In a recent news story that aired on the Morning Show, “How Far Is Too Far?” a student reported on teacher conduct towards students in class. This piece primarily consisted of interviews with teachers and students. The Eye staff recognize both positive and negatives aspects of the story. On one hand, the piece may not have represented both sides of the issue. Teachers are put in a very difficult position because the thin line they must respect varies with each and every student. While the piece presented numerous examples of unfair treatment in class, it neglected to portray this difficulty that teachers face. A few of those interviewed said they felt their segments were taken out of context after viewing the piece. This flaw did detract from the overall effect, yet the premise behind the piece remains one of valid concern. Interactions between students and teachers need to be recognized as interactions between two human beings. Teachers will make mistakes, say the wrong things and cross the line accidentally. Students should take the
responsibility of letting the teacher know when the line has been crossed-- when they personally felt hurt or embarrassed. If the teachers’ remarks continue, then the teacher is in the wrong. But if the teacher never knows, how can they correct themselves? This aside, the reaction amongst some of the faculty was rather inappropriate. The reporter was simply bringing to light an issue that needed to be addressed. We see teachers making clearly unnecessary remarks in class or consistently drawing harsh generalizations. Something needed to be said. The student interviews alone showed this is a problem. As a representative of the student body, the reporter had every right to make the piece. Teachers’ names were withheld, along with details of the retold incidents. The piece was not meant to criticize or offend the faculty directly. Now, the issue is on the table. The reporter was tasked with representing both sides in this story. She failed to address the complexity of this issue from a teacher’s viewpoint, something which is hard to do in a two-minute broadcast story.
the Eye
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Nov. 23, 2005
‘Mulan’ a hit with audiences By Simreen Kaur On Nov. 16 and 17, the Dance Club performed their fourth Disney adaptation in a row. “Mulan” is the retelling of the old Chinese folktale about a young Chinese girl who learns that her physically frail father is to be called into the army to fight the invading Huns. Knowing that he would never survive the war in his state, she disguises herself and takes his place. Unbeknownst to her, her ancestors are aware of this, and to prevent this they order a tiny dragon, Mushu, to join her to force her to abandon her plan. Mushu agrees, but when he meets Mulan, he learns that she cannot be dissuaded and so decides to help her. The dance is based on the original poem written about Mulan and the Disney adaptation following Mulan through her highs and lows. “The choreography is a combination of styles,” dance teacher Tracy Van der Linden said. “There is a variety of slow and fast dances and something for everyone.” Many different martial art forms were incorporated into the dances, especially for war scenes. The dance consisted of two acts. The first act was rather soft while the
second act, which integrated the war scenes, was more energetic and rough. There were 19 dances altogether. “This year’s dance show has a darker theme than last year’s ‘Little Mermaid,’ especially with the fighting scenes,” sophomore dancer Min Hee Do said. A variety of music was used throughout the dance, though it was mainly taken from the Disney movie. The rest ranged from “The Nutcracker” ballet to more modern techno music used in “The Matrix.” The costumes and sets were fairly simple, the color scheme alternating between red and orange, red and black and purple and blue. The red and orange color scheme was used for the celebratory dances, the red and black for the fight scenes and the purple and blue for the peaceful, everyday scenes. The last scene representing the dragon Mushu is rather grand and the color scheme is bright red and sparkly. The 91 dancers practiced from 4:15 to 6 p.m. after school in rehearsal groups assigned according to their characters - whether they were Huns, villagers or special characters. “No one generally had to attend
more than three rehearsals a week,” Van der Linden said. Van der Linden said that she worked at reducing individual rehearsal time to help dancers manage stress levels in the run-up to last week’s performances. “The students have been coping pretty well. They are a little more tired with the rehearsals we’re having before the show, but we have tried to cut down the amount of rehearsals this [year],” Van der Linden said. Freshman Calin Brown who was in Middle School dance last year, said that she handled it well but that high school dance expected more from you. “There were no real hiccups apart from a few dropouts with people realizing that they had overcommitted themselves,” Van der Linden said. Additionally, two of the dancers had minor injuries a week before the dance recital. When asked what to expect from the dance, senior Rachel Spencer, who designed one of the “Mulan” dance posters said, “The dances reflect the hard work of everyone involved. It’s going to be very exciting and fun.”
FINAL BOW. The entire cast of 91 dancers in the final curtain call of “Mulan,” to the Disney tune “True To Your Heart.” Photo by Brian Riady
DING DONG THE HUNS ARE GONE. Rushika Shekhar, Nicole Liew, Danielle Szulanski in the second act. Photo by Brian Riady
Video iPod targets holiday shoppers By Barbara Lodwick The new video iPod has made its way into the hands of a few lucky SAS students. But is it all its cracked up to be? The new video iPod has many of the same features as the old iPod - music, podcasts and the color screen that displays album art - but the most impressive feature is that it plays music videos, movies and TV shows. Users of the iPod can download some ABC and Disney hit shows such as “Lost,” and “Desperate Housewives.” iPod shuffle owner Colin Lee bought his video iPod two weeks ago. “I can’t live without my pod,” Lee said. Senior Ben Spalter said he would wait to purchase the video iPod until an improved version is released. “I wouldn’t get the new iPod because the first [version] is always screwed up,” he said. Spalter’s prediction has come
iLove
true. iPod nano customers have already sued Apple for the Nano’s screen being easily scratched. Now Jason Tomczak, another disgruntled Nano customer, is at the center of a lawsuit against the Nano. Tomczak
• The video iPod can hold: • 150 hours of video • Full-color album art and up to 25,000 photos • 15,000 songs • Color display • 30GB and 60GB models • 20 hours of battery life – five more than the old iPod • Bigger display than the late model • Under half an inch thin • Plays slideshows
filed a lawsuit on October 19 in the San Jose District Court, which states that the Nano is too delicate for normal use. Oddly enough, the same material used on the nano’s screen, is used on the video iPod, and no one has complained about the video iPod. The material is a thin resin that coats not only the screen, but also the entire face of the iPod. News.com reported some buyers have even started an Apple hate site called MacSlash.com, where they post “blogs” on the faulty iPods, with stories about how the screens have shattered. The article said buyers can’t figure out why the screen, “looks like it has been rubbed with sandpaper when the entire time it has been safe in a pocket.” In response to the “blogs,” other people have been writing in to support the iPod, saying that the iPods must have been treated carelessly.
iHate
• The screen is only 2.5 inches wide • Music iPods can be worn around your neck, in your pocket, or on your waist. The video iPod must be held out in front of your face • If we wanted to watch DVD’s or other movies, we could buy a potable DVD player or notebook computer • Like the Nano, the screen scratches easily • To download the videos you need the newest version of iTunes
NOISY MOMENT. Mariko Thomas and Mark Cabling in Act 1 of “Noises Off.” Cabling managed to act in the play despite an acute case of appendicitis one week before rehearsals. Photo by Jerry Szombathy
GOOD NOISE: Script allows improv
Continued from page 1
The third act deals with the dissolution of the theater company as personal realtionships fall apart. It was unfortunate that the hilarious story’s rehearsals had to be adjusted when actor Mark Cabling was struck with an attack of acute appendicitis at the Food Fest last month. While recovering, he spent his rehearsals sitting in the audience and projecting his voice on stage with director Erika Szombathy performing his role for him. Cabling was barely strong enough to walk, let alone run up and down stairs, lift boxes, and slam doors as his part required. “I wanted to do a comedy ensemble,” drama teacher Patricia Kuester said. “It’s an extremely challenging piece that heavily relies on physical comedy but I thought the actors would be able to handle it.” Many students agree. “It’s funny as hell. Acting’s great, script’s great, everything’s great,” senior Ranjeev Mahtani raved. “Phenomenally well done. The rehearsals paid off – it was perfect,” senior David Lee said. Senior Novita Ciputra thought that the story dragged a bit during the first act, but she loved the third.
“It was like they were building up the humor,” Ciputra said. “It was the funniest thing I’ve ever seen – especially Act 3,” junior Nathan Choe said. “I was having a hard time trying to decide which night Act 3 was better,” stage crewmember sophomore Larissa Hardesty said. The antics both on and off the set in the story played out in real life when some cues were missed in Thursday night’s performance. “The first one was improvised and the second one was correct, but I loved them both,” Hardesty revealed. “We missed a couple of pages in Act 2, and parts of the third act were improvised, but the cast recovered well,” actor Eric Brisson, said. “It’s easy to recover a mistake when it’s a play about actors making mistakes.” The junior thanked the flexibility of the script. “Most of the characters were supposed to look worried, and that was genuine worry up on stage.” Fortunately, this anxiety was handled so well that it seemed part of the script. In the celebrated words of “Noises Off” character, Lloyd Dallas, “Looks! Gestures! That’s what acting’s all about.”
8 sports
Nov. 23, 2005
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the Eye
Eagles Dominate 2nd Season Exchanges Rugby starts the season with their eye on the gold By Kelsey Heiner The SAS boys’ varsity rugby team managed to overcome physical play during the Jakarta exchange this past weekend, while amassing an overall record of 3-1. “Although our fitness needs to improve, we came away from the exchange knowing that we have a good shot at the gold in IASAS,” coach Cam McNicol said. All four games were played against JIS teams. SAS brought two teams to the exchange, while JIS fielded four. “I think that the exchange benefited Jakarta more because they had additional players to field,” senior co-captain Scott West said. “In one of the games I know that the B team had to borrow a JIS player because they did not have an extra lock.” SAS also suffered some key injuries during the exchange. Senior Katsuki Kikui fractured his wrist, junior co-captain Dave McNicol injured his leg, and senior co-captain Michael Palomaki needed nine stitches in his head after a collision in the second game. “I remember Mike coming up from a ruck and his face was covered in blood. It was pretty intense,” junior co-captain Paul Charbonnet said. SAS had played only one game against rivals UWC prior to the exchange. Despite the lack of games, “A lot of players really stepped up when it counted,” coach McNicol said. “We kept our composure when they [JIS ‘A’ team] started to gain momentum in the first game,” junior Adam Schwarz said. “When they tied it up after half-time, we didn’t back down.” “Our team fitness will improve as the season goes on,” junior cocaptain Adam Anderson added. “Overall, I think it was a great way to start what will hopefully be a gold medal season.”
BRING ON THE CHASE. Sophomore Megan Braun runs away from two ISKL rugby players during the exchange November 11-13th at ISKL.The Varsity team compiled a record of 2-0-2 while the Junior Varsity went undefeated with a record of 4-0-0.
Veteran touch team off to a good start By Priyanka Dev Returning with nine players, the Varsity Touch team fulfilled expectations of excelling at ISKL’s exchange. The team defeated the JIS Dragons and Telawi Women’s team while tying ISKL twice. “I was pleased with how everyone played, especially seeing that it was our second game this season,“ cocaptain Sara Calvert said. Players said the strong returning base helped a lot. “We basically know the game, so we can go straight into practicing technique,” junior Sylvia Chew said. Chew played with the Wantoks, a local mixed touch team, over the summer to gain experience. Calvert said that the strong
Swim team excels during their only exchange before IASAS meet
UP FOR AIR. Freshman Ruth Norwinda swims the breast stroke leg of the 400m Individual Medley Saturday morning.
By Alex Lloyd The swimming Eagles set themselves up for a victorious season during the exchange with JIS and ISKL Saturday, Nov. 12. Out of 13 events the girls’ team took first in all 13 and the boys’ took first in eight. “A lot of people did best times on Saturday,” junior Aaron Pavone said. “We’ve also been training really hard lately.” Pavone also attributed some of the team’s success to the
Rain delayed, tennis still makes impressive debut
By Michelle Lee JIS and ISKL particpated in a tennis exchange this weekend at SAS. The first round of games was delayed due to the morning rain until 9:30, and after “squeegee-ing” the courts dry. SAS played one game each against the opposing team ISKL. Co-captain Sarah Yang beat her opponent in perfect straight sets 6-0, 6-0. “Jakarta is definitely the team to beat this year. They got a transfer from Bangkok, who is their number two singles.” Yang said. Number two singles co-Captain Kim McKinney had a tougher match against an ISKL player, Ika Muzamel, who was seated number two singles for the weekend. This match lasted longer than the others, with Muzamel coming out on top in a 6-4, 6-4 upset. “[SAS] won in number of games, but not in the number or matches won” said Kim McKinney. “This exchange was good for our team, because we got to see our competition,” McKinney said. The SAS boys also had a successful exchange, with a win over the ISKL boys 5 matches to 3. “It was good exposure for the new guys and we did well considering how little experience we have as a team,” said co-captain Aseem Naibar.
returning core also helped during games. “I think a lot of rugby is confidence, it’s in your head,” she said. “With so many having experience, we were definitely more confident.” Junior Varsity was also victorious after playing four games and emerging undefeated. “It was good for the players to get some experience,” co-captain Valerie Mahillon said. “Most of the players on JV had never traveled to or competed against another IASAS school but we definitely showed what we were made of at the exchange.” MID-AIR CATCH. Sophomore Bella Reid catches the ball during a game against ISKL while seniors Priyanka Dev and Meghan Dwyer look on. Photo by Sue Calvert.
Administration. “Since we’re more restricted in the time we can practice now, it means we spend all of our possible time swimming really hard,” he said. Coach Steve Betts also attributed fast times to harder training. “We trained more intensively in the first two weeks that we usually do during that time,” Betts said. “We also had more rest than we normally would before an exchange because of the weather, so that was also part of it.” The exchange was the first and only exchange the swim team will attend this year. “It’s really disappointing,” girls’ captain Whitney Taylor said. “Without exchanges we don’t get any chance to compete against the
other teams in IASAS so we don’t get any sense of what we’ll be up against.” Pavone agreed. “It means that we have fewer chances to assess our own progress during the season,” he said. “It also means we get barely any chance to travel, because the exchange is here and IASAS is in Jakarta and that’s all.” Betts is more concerned about the amount of practice the team will have during the season and how that will affect their performance at IASAS. “We have three and a half weeks of practice between Dec. 9 and Feb. 9,” Betts said. “That means the swimmers are going to have to take a lot more responsibility for staying fit over the break and doing well at
IASAS.” The exchange ended with a team dinner at Hard Rock Cafe that included swimmers from all three teams. “[The dinner] was something that doesn’t usually happen,” Betts said. “Any time we get to mingle and spend some time with the other teams is really valuable.” “It was nice because we got to mix with the other teams,” Pavone said. “It would have been nice to eat more as an individual team, though, because we don’t get that many opportunities to do that kind of thing.” Taylor is positive for IASAS. “We have two really great teams again this year,” Taylor said. “I think we’re set for gold again this year.”