KUALA LUMPUR – Kuala Lumpur Badminton Association (KLBA) aims to develop more talented young shuttlers through their collaboration with the Banthongyord Badminton School, Thailand’s first badminton school to be established in 1991.
The school has trained the world’s top players such as women’s singles eighth ranked Ratchanok Intanon and men’s singles 18th ranked Kunlavut Vitidsarn.
KLBA president Datuk Seri Jahaberdeen Yunoos said the five-year collaboration is part of a bigger project that they have in the pipeline to develop more quality players.
The school was recommended by coaching and training committee chairman Datuk Razif Sidek due to their top notch facilities.
“There is no specific reason why we chose Thailand as our first choice. Apart from it being closer to home, we are impressed with what Banthongyord has achieved.
“Datuk Razif has been there and he gave a good recommendation for the school because other than training players, they have a very good system in place.
“We hope to send three or four players, fully funded by the President’s Scholarship. They will be as young as 11 years old,” said Jahaberdeen.
He was speaking to reporters after a symbolic jersey exchange with Banyongthord Badminton School director, Pattapol Ngernsrisuk.
He also noted that this would be the best opportunity for KLBA to explore and collaborate with an established private club from overseas, that is Banthongyord.
Meanwhile, Razik, who is an Olympic bronze medallist added that he visited the school when his son, Fazriq Razif was involved in an Under-13 tournament the school hosted a few years ago.
“On top of their disciplined practice, I was impressed with the school because they had good hostels, badminton courts, a gym and strict security.
“So, when I returned I told the KLBA board that Banthongyord is the best club I have ever come across.
“I believe this partnership will benefit KLBA players and eventually direct them to the BA of Malaysia. We have already produced some good ones like Leong Jun Hao, Justin Hoo, and my son Fazriq,” Razif shared. – The Vibes, July 8, 2022
