Asian Games Management Profile: Gene Tong

Gene has been involved with women's rugby since 1997 and has played a significant role in the development of the women's game through the last decade. Schooled in the culinary sciences, Singapore may never have reached 2nd  (2004) and 3rd in Asia (2005) if his restaurant had made the Michelin Guide.

Name: Gene Tong
Role: Coach
Occupation: IRB-Regional Training Coordinator for ARFU/Asia since 2009 & St. Andrew's-Head Coach at SAJS n SAJC since 1999

What is your coaching philosophy?
I believe that we should train the way we play. And that the Team is a reflection of the coaches philosophy. There are no bad players, only poor coaches.

What do you like about coaching the women's 7s team? 
It is an honour to coach the NWT. Gals are a lot more motivated n driven than guys... Just need to get them into gym more!

How is it different from coaching Men/Boys?
In my personal opinion, the difference between boys n gals- attitude, beliefs and desire.

You've seen the 7s team go from nothing to 2nd in Asia, how far do you think the team can go in the future?
Realistically speaking. Top 4 in Asia will be a good position to eye for given that China & Japan were not at event when Singapore came in 2nd in 2004.

If you weren't involved in rugby, what would you be doing now?
If I was not in coaching, I would probably be sipping some wine or carving up steaks at my own restaurant!