Singapore's top rugby try scorer at 17: Meet Ian M.

At 17, Ian M. is already competing, and scoring, against Singapore’s seasoned rugby players. A top scorer in both Rugby 15s and Men’s Club 7s, with a place in Singapore’s U20 national training squad, he is learning that talent gets you on the pitch, but patience, discipline and persistence take you further.

Recently Ian had the opportunity to meet Singapore’s Prime Minister, sharing his rugby journey, his time at CIS and his ambition to study Politics, Philosophy and Economics at university. It’s an example of the confidence and communication skills students develop through an IB education: learning to present ideas clearly, listen thoughtfully, ask questions and engage with people who can challenge their perspectives.

We meet the CIS student-athlete finding his feet in men’s rugby, building his voice beyond the field and setting his sights on what comes next.

How does it feel to be the top try scorer this season?

It is something I never would have imagined achieving at 17 years old, especially competing against experienced players in the men's division. Being the top scorer in both formats is definitely a proud moment for me, and it's rewarding to see all the hard work and dedication pay off. 

But I think what makes it even more meaningful is knowing that I was able to contribute to my team's success and share those moments with the people who have supported me throughout the journey. It's given me a lot more confidence in my abilities, but at the same time, I know there's still so much room for improvement. Hopefully, this is just the beginning of what I can achieve in rugby.

Take us back to the match you were named top scorer.

I remember going into my debut season with the mindset of wanting to score tries and prove myself, but I actually went scoreless for my first three games. It wasn't until the fourth match that I finally found my rhythm and started gaining confidence.

One of my senior teammates and mentors, Roy Tong, told me “Be patient Ian, your time will come,” right in the middle of a match, and followed by my Captain Jesse Quek’s words of encouragement.

 Their words really stayed with me throughout the season. Going into the final, I was excited to see how far I'd come. Scoring five tries was an incredible feeling, but looking back, what made it truly special wasn't just the points or the recognition. It was what I've found within myself and a brand new ceiling in the sky that I can aim for. I am really fortunate to have such supporting mentors as teammates, especially throughout my debut.

How did you feel when you found out you had made the Singapore (U20) national selection squad?

I was absolutely ecstatic. Being selected for the U20 national training squad, which consists of around 30 of Singapore's top players in the age group, was a huge honour and another important milestone for me.

At the moment, I'm training hard and doing everything I can to earn a place in the final squad of 12 for the upcoming Asia Rugby Sevens tournament in November. Of course, nothing is guaranteed, especially with the level of competition involved. For now, I'm just trying to stay focused, keep improving, and concentrate on the things within my control. Whatever the outcome, I'm grateful to have been given this opportunity.

Ian meets Singapore’s current Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, and former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong during the F1 race weekend.

You recently met Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. What was the conversation like, and what stayed with you afterwards?

I had the honour of speaking with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during the Formula 1 race weekend, which was definitely an experience I'll remember. We spoke about my rugby journey in Singapore, my time at CIS, and about my aspiration to pursue Politics, Philosophy and Economics in university.

One piece of advice that particularly stayed with me was the importance of remaining aware of the opportunities around us, especially those we might otherwise overlook. He also encouraged me to see my youth as an advantage and to make the most of it in an increasingly complex and changing world. It was a really meaningful conversation, and I walked away with a new perspective on how I want to approach the opportunities ahead of me.

What has your journey as a student-athlete at CIS been like?

CIS has played a big role in supporting my sporting journey, both on and off the field. I'm especially grateful to Mr. Mat Jones, Mr. Scott McKenzie, and Mr. Jared Nolan for their guidance and coaching. It really means a lot when teachers and school leaders take the time to come out and support me at my external club matches as well.

I'm also incredibly thankful to my DP teachers for believing in me and supporting me academically while I balance the demands of rugby. Thank you to Mrs. Metty Antony, Mr. Koray Ozsarac, Mr. Emmet Leong, and Mr. Lester Lin for their understanding and encouragement throughout this journey. Having that kind of support from the school community has made a real difference, and it's something I don't take for granted.

Head of School Jared Nolan at Ian’s rugby 7s tournament in Singapore

If we took you off the rugby pitch, where would we find you?

I’m often involved in Model United Nations (MUN), where I serve as an advanced trainer and enjoy mentoring fellow delegates. On other days, I enjoy tagging along with my mum to one of her networking events, walking my dog with my favourite bubble tea drink, or playing the piano in my room. I like to keep myself busy, although my mum would say I should be busier with my university applications!

Congratulations Ian on an incredible season and continue chasing tries and reaching for new heights!