DELIVER OR BE DROPPED
BAM to crack the whip on underachievers with new policy next year
THE BA of Malaysia (BAM) will get tough on underachievers. BAM president Datuk Seri Norza Zakaria, who chaired the association’s coaching and training committee meeting yesterday, said: “You are either out or in. Our new policy, which we will introduce next year, is similar to that of a reality television show.
“Those who are dropped will be replaced by new players and this process is set to be carried out twice a year.
“It will be in February and August, based on our local ranking,” said Norza at Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara yesterday.
Norza has urged his coaches — Misbun Sidek, Cheah Soon Kit, Tey Seu Bock, Wong Pei Tty and Chin Eei Hui — to monitor their trainees closely and check on their progress accordingly.
“We are fine tuning this system and a complete guide will be ready soon.
“Everyone has agreed to the new system.
“Beginning next year players will also be given the opportunity to compete in tournaments based on their form.
“Shuttlers who show consistency and deliver results will be allowed to play in more tournaments, while those who are struggling will remain here to train and improve themselves first,” he said.
He also revealed that players ranked between World No 1-72 will be given the opportunity to compete in at least 12 tournaments a year.
“Players have to achieve their targets based on their world ranking.
“If they are in the top four, they must aim to at least be in the semi-finals of competitions.
“If they are ranked in the top eight, then they should at least reach the quarter-finals.
“We will also conduct regular fitness tests on players next year.
“As for mental conditioning, we are looking at hiring four psychologists,” he added.