A note from our past President - Assoc Prof Koh Koon Teck

It was an honour to assume SPEA's presidency in 2016, building on the legacy of Professor Wang and past leaders. Having served in various roles, the transition felt natural, and I was eager to elevate the association.

I was supported by a passionate team united by a vision to advance physical education (PE) and sport in Singapore. We enhanced the SPEA Newsletter by inviting local and international experts to share insights grounded in evidence-based practices.

Professional development became a cornerstone of our work. We strengthened partnerships with key stakeholders like PESTA and SportSG to host targeted workshops aimed at raising teaching and coaching standards. These efforts created platforms for knowledge exchange, skill development, and peer support.

Over five decades, SPEA has significantly shaped Singapore’s PE landscape. Our core mission—to advocate for PE and uplift teaching standards—remains firm. Recognising the evolving field, we expanded our scope to include sports coaches as vital contributors to youth development.

A key highlight of my term was launching the Outstanding Teacher-Coach Award (OTCA) in 2019. This initiative recognised the dedication of teacher-coaches and inspired similar efforts by other organisations.

We also expanded SPEA’s presence internationally and regionally by encouraging members to present at various conferences and engage with ASEAN PE and Sport networks. These efforts amplified SPEA’s voice and fostered meaningful global and regional collaborations.

To bridge generations, we organised social events to connect young PE teachers and sports coaches with our pioneers. These gatherings helped strengthen bonds and pass on valuable experiences. Financially, SPEA remained healthy, supported by consistent revenue from workshops, conferences, and memberships.

My guiding belief has always been, “Serving is giving.” Despite balancing work and family, my six years with SPEA were among the most rewarding. The friendships, shared mission, and collective achievements made the journey meaningful.

Leadership renewal is essential to sustain growth. After three terms, I passed the baton to Leonard and his team, who continue leading with a clear vision, fresh ideas, and renewed energy.

As we celebrate our 50th Jubilee, it’s crucial to inspire new volunteers passionate about advancing the field. Staying responsive to changes, identifying niche areas of impact, and showcasing research-informed practices will pave the way forward.

Onwards, SPEA 100!