“I Didn’t Want to be Mediocre”: Lily Sim’s Rise to the Singapore National Rugby Sevens Team and Becoming a SEA 7s Champion

Hana Basir
8 hours ago
4 min read

Lily Sim made her SEA 7s debut in 2024 and within a year, became a champion. She shares on her beginnings, sacrifices and what it took to get to the top

This is a feature article written by SportPlus.sg for Kallang Alive Sports Management. For more sports events, programmes and human stories of Singapore Sports Hub, visit the Singapore Sports Hub's 'Here to Play' website.

“I used to be the person who lagged behind in training trying to keep up with the rest. That version of me showed up so I could be the person and player I am today. Now, I just want to make sure I show up for her in the same way.”

As Lily Sim recalled the sacrifices that defined her climb to the top, her eyes filled with tears. From the moment she discovered rugby, the national women’s sevens player knew she wanted to stand amongst the best in the country.

And now, she’s a Southeast Asian champion.

“I knew I didn’t want to be mediocre. I really wanted to be the best. That taught me focus and discipline which bled into my personal life. I learned that I have to show up no matter how tired, scared or frustrated I am,” shared the 26-year-old, who was part of Singapore’s SEA 7s winning squad earlier this year.

Having made her SEA 7s debut in 2024 and settling for second place, Lily and the team came back stronger in 2025, conquering the regional stage with a gold medal — an experience she holds close to her heart.

“My proudest moment playing for Singapore is when I got to play at the Singapore National Stadium. A few years ago, I never would have thought that I would ever get the chance to play there. Not many people get to do that,” she smiled.

“That moment when we won was fantastic. Not only did we do ourselves and our coaches proud, we also did those who supported us proud. I think it’s a feeling that can’t be replaced.”

Life as a National Rugby Player

Like many, Lily first began her rugby journey in touch rugby. It was a social media post online about an open house open to all abilities that caught her attention.

“I saw it and thought, ‘Oh my god, contact rugby sounds so cool!’ So I brought my friend along to the open house — and I never looked back.”

Lily received her maiden national team call-up towards the end of the Covid-19 pandemic, having to adapt to the strict rules of training in groups of five. It was at an invitational tournament in Phuket, where she made her national team debut.

“It was my first ever competition with the Opens. After playing my first game, I bawled my eyes out,” she laughed.

“It was a shock — the level that we had to play at on the international stage. Before that, I had only played for age groups or local rugby clubs.”

All in on her dreams, Lily balances a full-time marketing job with five days of training a week, often tackling double sessions.

With a clear sense of perspective, she commits wholeheartedly to whatever’s in front of her—marketing or rugby, never both. In doing so, she honours the time of her colleagues and teammates, and it’s that same discipline that fuels her every day. Her determination is unmistakable, especially when she talks about her “why.”

“The jersey that was given to us was hard fought by our seniors. They really fought for resources and trained hard to get that jersey. When I wear it, I really want to honour what has been done in the past to get Singapore women’s rugby to what it is today. I want to make sure that when I pass it down, my juniors will be proud to wear it too,” she shared.

Defending the Crown On Home Soil

Lily will once again don the Singapore jersey at the SEA 7s in 2026, set to be held once again in conjunction with the HSBC SVNS Singapore 2026 at the National Stadium. For Lily and her teammates, clinching gold on the very same pitch as their heroes makes the win all the more special.

“It really gives hope to the local and regional players. The idols we’ve been watching through a screen are now playing on the same field as us,” described Lily.

HSBC SVNS Singapore, known for not only the world-class action on the field, but also its family-friendly fringe activities, has created a buzz around the local rugby community. Not only has it increased growth in the sport, but has also — to Lily — brought people together.

“There are many fringe activities that have brought communities together. For example, there’s the beach fives. We have people who went from not knowing about rugby to saying that it looks fun, wanting their kids to join the next year. It shows that it’s not just about rugby, it brings everyone together,” said Lily.

After tasting glory this year, the team is eager to defend their title as Southeast Asia’s champions — backed by a fresh, energetic squad.

“There’ll be a lot of young blood next year, we’ll definitely show a lot of hunger and aggression and a lot of grit. It’ll be fun to watch and see how we’ll fare,” shared the now senior player.

“Personally, I would like to stay present, enjoy the moment, and keep in mind that we have what it takes to defend our title. We’re a team that plays with our hearts. We may not have the biggest physique but the way we play really shows how much we love the sport. I hope next year, it’ll be a platform for us to show that.”

To her teammates, Lily’s message is simple.

“Let’s bring confidence and show them how we can put up a fight.”

The HSBC SVNS Singapore 2026 will be happening from 31 January to 1 February 2026, visit the Singapore Sports Hub website to get your tickets for the ultimate rugby weekend.