As the World Ultimate Championships (WUC) 2024 draw near, the Singapore Ultimate community stands on the cusp of an exciting moment. From 31 August to 7 September, Singapore’s finest Ultimate athletes will take to the world stage in Gold Coast, Australia, representing the nation with pride, determination, and a deep-seated love for the sport.
This journey to WUC has been one of intense preparation, emotional highs and lows, and a steadfast commitment to growth, as shared by players from Singapore's Women's, Open, and Mixed teams. Their stories highlight the challenges, the camaraderie, and the hopes that drive them as they prepare to compete against the best in the world.
For Amanda Lunardhi of the Womens team, the path to WUC has been transformative. "The road to WUC has been one full of growth and learning for all of us; from the physical aspects of the game to the mental and emotional aspects like chemistry and mental focus. The majority of us on the women’s team are relatively less experienced, but we’ve all got lots to bring to the table."
Amanda reflects on how their journey began without much attention, but their determination has only grown stronger. "While our journey might not have started with the spotlight on us, I hope that the upcoming WUC would allow us to prove that the women on this team are forces to be reckoned with," she adds.
Angel Lee offers a different perspective, focusing on the evolution of the team over time. "With every season comes a different team, which offers a different experience. This year’s team is vastly different from the previous WUCC’22 team, comprising younger players and different personalities."
She speaks candidly about the challenges that come with new dynamics and playing styles. "There were definitely a lot of frustrations during training as we tried to work out our differences. However, we continue to strive towards success and to overcome our challenges together," Angel says. Despite these hurdles, she remains inspired by her teammates. "I hope our team can perform at our highest standard and I am excited to see what we can achieve together!"
For Meng Kiat, representing Singapore at WUC 2024 marks a significant milestone. "This being my first time representing my country on the world’s stage makes me feel really honoured. The journey that led me to this point has been challenging yet fruitful."
Meng Kiat is particularly moved by the bond he shares with his teammates. "It is amazing to train and play with a bunch of guys from different backgrounds who push me beyond my limits, and knowing that it is all love and that we have each other’s backs makes this campaign such a meaningful one."
Parathan Arasu shares the excitement of joining this elite group. "Joining as a late addition brought some anxiety, but I was warmly welcomed, and the team helped me seamlessly fit in."
With WUC fast approaching, Parathan feels a mix of excitement and anticipation. "Now, with a few days to go, we’re all feeling that excitement and anticipation and are ready to give our best at the Gold Coast," he says. Eager to support his teammates, Parathan adds, "Personally, I can’t wait to be the loudhailer that I am and cheer for every play my teammates make (and they make a lot of them)."
For Iliona Teo, the journey to WUC with the Mixed team has been both challenging and rewarding. "The intensity and countless hours of hard work have shaped us into a dynamic team, each player bringing unique skills and backgrounds."
She describes how overcoming setbacks and celebrating victories—both big and small—have brought the team closer together. "Overcoming setbacks and celebrating small victories have prepared us mentally and physically for this moment. As we approach WUC, I feel a mix of excitement and determination, but also a touch of nervousness."
Iliona’s hopes are not solely about winning; they’re also about the memories and experiences she will share with her teammates. "My hopes are high, not just for winning, but creating memories together with the team," she shares.
Jamin Huang, another key player on the Mixed team, reflects on the long and demanding campaign that has brought them to WUC. "It has been a long campaign, with much individual sacrifice from everyone on each team. This will be our chance to show the world what Singapore Ultimate is, and how our passion and dedication to the sport can pave new roads."
Jamin also takes a moment to express his gratitude for the broader Ultimate community and the unwavering support from friends and family. "None of this is possible without the support of both the wider ultimate community and the friends and families supporting our athletes. I am confident the teams will give their best to represent everyone back home and will never go down without a fight."
As the Singapore contingent prepares to step onto the fields of Gold Coast, they carry with them the hopes and pride of a nation. Each player’s journey to this point has been unique, filled with challenges and triumphs, but what unites them is a shared goal—to showcase the strength, resilience, and spirit of Singapore Ultimate on the world stage.
The Ultimate Players Association (Singapore) is the body responsible for the governance of flying disc sports in Singapore. These sports include Ultimate, Beach Ultimate and Disc Golf.
Stay up to date with all our news and events!
