By Owen Lee
IPOH: For Mohd. Khairol Azhar Bin MD Noor, coaching the rugby team of Sekolah Tuanku Abdul Rahman (STAR) is more than just a job. It is a mission to continue a legacy. As the current head coach of one of Malaysia’s most respected school rugby teams, Khairol is determined to elevate his team to new heights in the national school rugby scene.
“Our goal is to continue the tradition of excellence. STAR has always been known for rugby, and we are committed to maintaining that reputation,” said Khairol, reflecting on the team’s proud history. Under his guidance, STAR is focused not only on winning but also on shaping disciplined, resilient young men both on and off the field.
STAR’s reputation as a rugby powerhouse is backed by impressive achievements, including being crowned champions twice in the Malaysian Super Schools Rugby tournament. Khairol believes the support system behind the team plays a major role in sustaining this excellence.
He credits much of the team’s success to the unwavering support from the STAR alumni association, known as Staroba, and the players’ parents. “The Staroba community has always been behind us and the parents are just as involved. They even have their own WhatsApp group to plan how they can help during competitions,” he shared with a smile.
Training sessions are held diligently every evening at 4 p.m., with gym sessions scheduled every two to three weeks. “We make sure the boys stay physically and mentally fit. Discipline, teamwork, and fitness are the pillars of our training,” he added.
But it’s not just about rugby. Academic performance remains a priority. According to Khairol, some players who fall behind in their studies are given extra support. “The parents are very understanding. They’re willing to pay for tuition classes to make sure their children balance both rugby and studies,” he said, praising the commitment shown by the families.
The coach emphasized that managing both the academic and athletic lives of the players is a team effort. “It’s not easy to excel in both, but when the coaches, players, parents work together, it becomes possible,” he said.
As the new season approaches, hopes are high that STAR will once again emerge as a dominant force in Malaysian school rugby. For Khairol and his team, it is not just about trophies, but it is about upholding the legacy, developing character, and building future leaders through the spirit of rugby.
“Our boys are proud to wear the STAR jersey,” he said. “And we, as coaches and supporters, are proud to back them every step of the way.
