KUALA LUMPUR – Young and upcoming shuttlers can benefit from the Badminton Association of Malaysia’s (BAM) proposal to offer its facilities to independent players.
National men’s singles coach Hendrawan welcomed the idea although it is still in the discussion stage.
“We have many young players here who can learn from the professional players,” the 2001 world champion told reporters yesterday.
According to BAM president Tan Sri Norza Zakaria, the association might allow professional players ranked in the top 20 to utilise the Academy Badminton Malaysia’s facilities.
Hendrawan said that it will be good to see the juniors train alongside the likes of world no. 5 Lee Zii Jia as it would raise their competitiveness.
However, the Indonesian emphasised that the independent players should not be forced into committing to train with BAM.
“They should not be forced to do so, otherwise the situation would not be favourable to either party.”
Meanwhile, Hendrawan said that Commonwealth Games silver medallist Ng Tze Yong has shown some positive changes since stepping up as BAM’s lead national men’s player.
“He is a changed player now. Not just with his skills and techniques, but he is showing more commitment and willpower when he plays and also when he trains.
“Tze Yong is more committed now compared to before and that is a great start for Tze Yong’s career. He does not come for training just for the sake of showing up, but puts in a lot more effort during the sessions,” he added.
Hendrawan added that Tze Yong’s aim of breaking into the top 30 by the end of this year is feasible but it depends on how bad he wants it.
“His desire to break into the top 30 by this year will also help determine his career progression.
“Tze Yong should fight to achieve this target, then it will be easier for the coaches to help him.
“We are here to help him accomplish his goals, but he has to put in the hard work,” he said.
Hendrawan said that the situation is the same for all junior players as they will have to prove themselves to the coaches, which will allow BAM to identify the suitable second and third choice players for Malaysia. – The Vibes, August 17, 2022.
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