Farewell and thank you, Coach Datta.

In March of every year, we say good-bye to SIS graduating Sabers. Sabers sports teams would not be successful without the dedication of their coaches. SOIS coaches are generous with their time and energy. One Sabers coach, like the recent graduates, is leaving SIS.

Mr. Shammi Datta​, SIS social studies teacher and SOIS IBDP history teacher, served as the Sabers high school badminton coach for 24 years – 24 years! – almost single-handedly making the team a WJAA powerhouse. Thanks to Coach Datta, the badminton team annually often has over 30 members, making it one of the most popular teams on campus. Coach Datta leaves SOIS for a new job in Tokyo. We thank him greatly and wish him all the best.

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Here are Coach Datta's comments on his experience as a Sabers coach.

• “It’s like family here.” These are the first words that come to mind when I think of my years here as a Sabers coach and as a member of the larger SOIS community. Coach Heimer is indeed too nice when he says “single-handedly.” In my early days, I was fortunate to have the guidance of former badminton coaches Osako-sensei and Taura-sensei. Last year, I was thankful for all the hard work of assistant coach Namba-sensei. This year, badminton is in the capable hands of head coach Lewis. In addition, I am grateful for the leadership of senior players. It would have been impossible to run practice without their commitment. It has been a pleasure to see so many SOIS players on the courts over the years! Keep up the good work, and Go-o-o-o Sabers!

Coach Datta, back row, left, circa 1997 (next to former SIS head of school Osako-sensei)