AUG 2011

A NN UA L

G E N E R A L

M E E T I N G

AUG 2011

NE W TON HE AT H F C

NHFC CELEBRATED A DOUBLE!

Newtons Throws End Season Party

22nd July 2011 was the day Newton Heath Football Club celebrated not just their End Season party but also a birthday surprise for the newly voted Club Captain, Farhan Ramli, who turned 25! Players, fans, family members and special ones came down for the End Season Annual General Meeting. The customary speech was given by the CEO to everyone present. He thanked all the players and fans alike for giving their commitment and effort to the club. He mentioned how the club would want the current crop of players to play together for years to come. The CEO stated, People would suggest planning This was NHFCs 2nd AGM and it was a forward 5 years. Right now I believe we must plan for next year and improve much bigger occasion with more with what we have at this moment. entertainment, fun and importantly food! NHFC ended their season with 39 points, scoring 63 goals in the league and reaching the Quarter Finals of the Cup competition. Sadly not everyone could make it to the event due to scheduling conicts. We would like to thank all the players who played in NHFC colors for the great season!

AGM 2011

FARHANS BIRTHDAY

BBQ SESSION

Most Improved Players 2010/11

Congratulations to the 3 individuals who won the Most Improved Player award. The award was given to the players who showed great improvements in their football last season and was selected by the Club Committee Members.

ZAFRIE
GETTING THE MOST IMPROVED PLAYER AWARD DOES NOT MEAN I AM GOOD ENOUGH. HOPEFULLY I CAN BE VOTED FOR THE PLAYERS PLAYER OF THE YEAR AWARD NEXT SEASON. I HOPE FOR A GOOD SEASON WITH NHFC AND REACH OUR TARGETS. WATCH OUT NHFC! YOU HAVE NOT SEEN THE FULLEST ABILITY OF ZAF ALLESANDRO!

HE CAN CONTRIBUTE BETTER ON THE FIELD WITH THE TEAM GUIDANCE. MORAL SUPPORT FROM ALL OF YOU IS VERY MUCH APPRECIATED. - ZAFRIES MOTHER MDM ROHANI Qn: How did you feel about receiving the Most Improved Player award? Zafrie: Firstly, I feel honored to actually receive the Most Improved Player award. Mostly I feel proud of myself and glad that my improvements has been noticed. I do not want the team to have a set back because of me. I'm also thankful to certain teammates and coaches that have taught and trained me to be the player I am today.

RIZAL
I HOPE TO ACHIEVE MORE GOALS FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON. TO BE PLAYING FOR THIS TEAM AND ALSO CONTRIBUTE TO THE TEAM FOR US TO STRIVE FOR A BIGGER WIN. NOT TO FORGET TO TIGHTEN UP THE BOND AND CHEMISTRY WITHIN US TO WORK BETTER AS A WHOLE TEAM AND FAMILY.

Rizal: I feel honored and blessed upon receiving this award. I didnt expect to get this award seeing that there were a lot of other good players in the team. But I am thankful to be one of the three to receive this award.

S YA I F U L
MY AIM FOR THE NEXT SEASON IS TO IMPROVE MORE ON MY STYLE OF PLAY, BE MORE AWARE AND RESPONSIVE DURING GAMES. LASTLY TO AIM MORE GOALS FOR THE TEAM WHICH I SCORED 3 GOALS LAST SEASON. SO FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON I WANT TO DOUBLE THAT AMOUNT.

Syaiful: When my name was mentioned as one of the awarded players, it was a shock to me. I knew through the season the way I was playing got better compared to past years I have played with other teams. I didn't expect my improvement was enough to get me awarded and never expect getting myself any award from the club.

NHFC 2010/11 Players Player of The Year

The Players Player of The Year award is NHFCs main award. This year to calculate the votes of the players, the club used an online voting system on a website designed and created by Farhan Ramli. Without a doubt Fareed Ramli deserved the Players Player of The Year award for his performances and hard work. Appointed captain by the manager, Fareed showed he has more to offer to the club than just goals. Even though he scored 23 goals and had 5 assists this season, it was his work rate that got him to where he is today. Congratulations to Fareed Ramli for winning the 2010/2011 Players Player of The Year award! Qn: Did you predict that you will be voted for this award? Partly yes. Thought I would be voted because I believed I worked hard on the eld but I didn't thought of winning it because I could see my contenders are better winners. Qn: How does it feel to have scored 23 goals this season? Honestly I had an aim for scoring 15 this season but I didn't expect it to surpass 20! If it's not for my teammates and lady luck I wouldn't have gotten to this much goals. Qn: Who do you have to thank for this award? God, my family, the committee and my teammates. Without the help and support from all of you I wouldn't be learning and improving myself. I'll humble myself and learn for the best of me and the team.

FAREED RAMLI

We interviewed Fareed and got his reactions on receiving the award:

HONESTLY I HAD AN AIM FOR SCORING 15 THIS SEASON BUT DIDNT EXPECT TO SURPASS 2O!

The Gaffer Speaks

An interview with Firdaus Taib Recently we met up with the gaffer to get his thoughts for the upcoming season. These were the key points he wanted to highlight: Im proud of the players I have now. The team is improving and bonding together but we must get better. We must outdo ourselves. For years our team performance dropped for the rst few games due to poor match tness, so it is imperative that we all should put in the effort to do some tness training before the season starts. I need you to be responsible for yourself. Highlighting the clubs core values, I hope the playersshow us that they have respect for the team and its values. If they can prove to us that they are committed, willing to improve and ght for the club, they are indispensable. I need all of them to believe in themselves and always give their best. And never give up. The gaffer also wants the team to improve in certain aspects, especially their game play which may seem naive at times, I hope this season we can retain possession better. Always support your teammates. I wish that we dont argue or be harsh at each other. Players who do this will be taken out for a breather.

The gaffer stressed that punctuality is vital to the preparation. We all must reach the eld 30 minutes before kickoff.To have proper warmup, hydration and team talk. He also highlighted that players who meet up at HQ for the match must reach 2 hours before kick-off time. Singing the clubs motto at heart, the gaffer believes that there is a unique family atmosphere within the club. A family that has a strong bond can go through any obstacles or adversities. A close knitted group will have no problems during the game. We have seen that and it is true.

Such positive words from the manager with bits of reminders for the players to keep their feet on the ground. If the gaffer goes on with this mentality throughout the season in times of adversity, it will denitely rub off onto the players and we will have an exciting season ahead.

Many managers believe that a good squad is essential to the success of a team in a tough and grueling season and To end the interview, the gaffer nished off with a positive and encouraging the gaffer is no different: statement. Its all about the squad. Sometimes you Lets give our best for this new may receive less playing time but season. There will be hiccups along the players need to understand that it is hard for me to leave you out too. If we way but we will get through it. We will are chasing a game, we might need our be having a few events coming up in months to come and I hope all of you best players on the pitch. Try to be can participate. We are not just a versatile as that makes you invaluable soccer club, we are more than that. So to the team. Rizal picked up a position please try to participate in these last season and was impressive at events. Happy last few days of fasting times. So was Matt Adams when called and have a wonderful Hari Raya. upon to play in defence.

IM PROUD WITH THE PLAYERS THAT WE HAVE NOW. THEY ARE IMPROVING AND BONDING TOGETHER AS A TEAM BUT MUST BE BETTER.

A CH AT W I TH FA R I S A ND J I A NG

We asked Faris and Jiang regarding their season with NHFC

Qn: First year in the club and you almost nicked the 2 awards from Farhan and Fareed. Are you disappointed? Faris: Nah, I'm not disappointed at all with the way it was or how the vote turned out. Now I know where I stand in the team even though it is my rst year being in the club. It is also a great honor to know that I almost nicked 2 awards from the brothers. Now I believe that I have the capability to achieve higher and play better for the team. Qn: Rumors has it that you left your previous club to join NHFC. Any regrets there? Faris: Nope, no regrets. As I believe that though we play the same sport, both my previous club and current club have different styles and ways of showing their passion in the sport. So I would say, No regrets at all as I learn a lot more from Newtons. Qn: NHFC sees a long term future for you in the club, how do you feel regarding these sentiments? Faris: I'm surprised yet honored as I nd that Newton Heath Football Club is the place and home where I truly believe that I have a sense of belonging. The club have brought me to a different level of amateur league football. They have faith in me as I do for them. I still have much to learn and there are still room for improvements no doubt. But I hope for what expectations NHFC has for me, hopefully I will be able to meet them as I wish to see myself progress with NHFC. Glory Glory Newtons! Qn: Youre back on loan for NHFC this season. How do you rate this experience? Jiang: Experience was denitely fullling and was fun to be able to play withthe remaining members of the squad which I wasa part of back then.It was also wonderful thatI was able to get along with the youngsters very well and to earn their respect (at least that was what I felt). Qn: Seeing Karim made a 360 turn back to the team, what do you think inspired him to return to his boyhood club? And will that happen to you in the future? Jiang: And of course Karim, wonderfulfor you guys that you all have gotten your experienced custodian back. Someone reliable as the last line of defense. Not saying this out of disrespect to Alvin andAhmad, but they denitely will be able to learn from Karim and he himself will alsobe able to pick up some kicking skills from Ahmad as well. Qn: Next season is a new challenge. Are you keen on extending your loan spell with the Newtons? Jiang: It has been fun playing with you guys again and to be frank I was quite pleasantly surprised when I rst got your invitation earlier on in the year. Really surprised. HAHA! HELL YEAH! I am ready for another loan spell baby if that is what you call it!

Special Thanks To Our Sponsors and Guests Of Honor

Newton Heath Football Club would like to say a big thank you to the sponsors and guest of honor for attending NHFCs AGM. The club would also like to show gratitude to guests, cooks and others who helped out for the event. We interviewed Mdm City whom she and her husband, Mr Ramli, helped contributed to the event by sponsoring the awards. Plus our guest of honor, Mr Eugene Wee, gave us a few words on the AGM.

Qn: This year you have been a sponsor for the awards. What motivated you to contribute generously?

Qn: What words do you have for both of them and the rest of the team?

EVERY SINGLE ONE IN THE TEAM MUST HAVE THE PASSION TO FACE STRESS OF CHALLENGE.

To both of them and the team, I want to see them do well and improve their skills. Its the passion about putting the game Always remember that you all have to be at the heart of my family that gave me committed, show passion, not to waste the motivation to contribute individual talent and not to waste skills generously and I will continue learned. Every single one in the team must sponsoring as best as I can in the have the passion to face stress of challenge, future. encourage and support each other, empowered to take responsibility allaying the fear of injury and continuing to play the Qn: Seeing your sons being best you can. If all this basic needs of playing voted by their peers, how do football is present, I see no reason why your you feel when you saw both of team is unable tobe a strong united team. them coming out on top in CONGRATS TO ALL. Players Player of the Year and Club Captain? And to Karim, "WE WELCOME YOU BACK! Honestly I did not expect it but it was indescribable great proud feeling since they were voted by the peers. I must say I owe a great thank you to Fandi Ahmad. In 1995 all my three sons, Mohd Fadly Ramli, Mohd Farhan Ramli and Mohd Fareed Ramli were all groomed under Fandi 17 Connection in a systematic manner. That was the beginning of their soccer introduction. This is the fruit of the labour of myfamily's passion in soccer. Of course what I wish to see is them improving their skills and hopefully at least one of them will play in the FAS. It ismy dream.

ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU ALL HAVE TO BE COMMITTED, SHOW PASSION, NOT TO WASTE INDIVIDUAL TALENT AND NOT TO WASTE SKILLS LEARNED.

Words from Eugene Wee

Both AGMs are well organized , and while both reap different rewards, one thing did not change is each managers of individual departments got a chance to introduce themselves so everyone knows who they are and what is their role . They summarized their departments achievements (good or bad) and they set goals. The best part is each department compliments each other and afrmed that they are there to support the other. This is stronger than steel!!! The rst NHFC match I observed was at Serangoon Stadium against J-Heat. The second NHFC match I observed was at Bukit Timah Field against Questra Vipers. The second last NHFC match I observed was this July at Commonwealth Pitch and the last NHFC match I observed was also this July at Marsiling Secondary. The physical attributes between then and now has improved. There are no doubts that NHFC always had agile and skillful players, but this time, they are able to stay on their feet while controlling the ball against the bigger size Europeans. Players placement must have improved as the players looked more comfortable and condent. At Marsiling Secondary, NHFC broke the deadlock with a blazing scorcher! I enjoyed watching the ow of football. It is like a red sea with waves after waves moving back and forth in harmony. Just like Newton Heath FC, EFL has its humble beginnings. There was once when Turf City was the best pitch to hold our Cup and League Finals. Now, we are maturing and ready to improve on our quality. All Premiership matches will be played with linesmen and on better pitches. Unlike other amateur leagues, it took EFL almost six years to form The Premiership, Qualifying Division and the Singapore Financial Institution League. It took us almost six years to register thirty-ve teams in our Membership program. This is extremely slow compared to other amateur leagues (the other league managers told me so!). But I would say that we are successful because our foundation is strong. We are focused and determined. People trust us because of our sturdy foundation and they feel proud to share our goals. Team managers and players offer their services to help with administration. They want to be part of EFLs history. EFL is the one and only 11-a-side amateur league sanctioned by the Football Association of Singapore, and we are successful enough to scrutinize who we want as sponsors. Although NHFC has been a bottom-halfof-the-table club, it would be unwise to gauge them as that. Results on the pitch may be important but it is not of primary concern when in development stage. I have seen clubs winning silverware and accolades from others but crumbled within a mere three short years due to poor management, inter-political rivalry, poor nance management and players pride. These are clubs who were once considered the Big Fours in EFL and other leagues. NHFC is not a club just focusing on getting the points in NOW, but rather, they have a bigger picture in mind. A picture that I share too. They actively create a fan base, community bonding, and with their improved hierarchy, they will be a force to reckon with. I strongly approve that they have started working with their schools alumni as they will be a very powerful ally in times of need. Everything about NHFCs management is positive and they are active.You have piled your foundation, and is still piling. Soon, it will be strong enough to hold whatever structure you place on it. When I look at Newton Heath Football Club, I see two things. I see the club you are now and I see the club you ought to be. Someday, these two will meet. I thank Newton Heath FC for giving me the honor and the opportunity to witness such an event. My best wishes to you!

From the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank Newton Heath Football Club for inviting me to your AGMs. It is always an honor to attend such a glorious event. It is heart-warming to witness team camaraderie, family and friends bonding and let us not forget the scrumptious food! The rst NHFC AGM was more formal and was held in an ofce environment. Which is good as it shows your clubs determination to succeed. It also gives us a feel of what it will be like to hold AGMs when you are a protable entity plying your trade as a professional club. NHFC has a well organized hierarchy, workload is well delegated so no one man handles too much while every man has a part to play. Kudos! I am very impressed with your administration as they have scorers, assists, past results, videos, photos, memorabilia and such properly documented. Those are Newton Heaths history. NHFCs second AGM was more lighthearted and family orientated. Parents, siblings, friends and WAGs are all invited to witness and share your success, tribulations and goals for the future. To me, NHFC has recognized that it is slowly maturing and is adequately condent to build on its fan base starting with their love ones. Their support is essential so getting them to share and understand your needs, your objectives, your pride and your passion is essential. I, too, will not be coordinating EFL if not for my wifes support. If not for her, I would have long sold EFL to a commercialized entity.

Farhans Birthday Celebration

FARHANS 25TH BIRTHDAY!
Congratulations to Farhan! Not only did he celebrate his birthday, he was voted by the players as the new Club Captain for Newton Heath Football Club. A great day for Farhan as he celebrated his special day with his family, ancee and friends. He gave a speech by request of everyone present at the party.

THE RAMLI FAMILY

He would like to thank everyone who came down that day!

BBQ SESSION!

Oh dear...So honored to be part of your activities. Yes, I did enjoy the event and got to see the members of NHFC. Well done, your event was well organized. - Mdm Rohani when asked about her rst AGM experience

BBQ SESSION!

THE FOOD WAS AWESOME! ESPECIALLY THE CHICKEN COOKED IN RED SAUCE. GREAT TO SEE EVERYONE HAVING FUN AND BONDING TOGETHER. HOPE THIS CAN BE A REGULAR THING FOR THE TEAM. - ANONYMOUS