Jun Hoong backs Zhuliang
WORLD champion Cheong Jun Hoong is firmly behind outgoing coach Yang Zhuliang though the diver did leave some room for speculation into what had really happened in the national team.
Responding to a statement by Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin on Friday, Jun Hoong said she had never faced such incidents personally.
In his statement Khairy said Zhuliang’s contract was not renewed as he allowed a “culture and environment of fear” within the national team, which had led to incidents such as “rape, sexual harassment, violence, physical abuse, bullying and threats”.
“As far as I know, coach Zhuliang did not do such things,” said Jun Hoong.
“But that is only my opinion, I cannot speak on behalf of the other divers.
“As far as I am concerned, he has been a very good coach to me.
“Yes, there were times I was scared of him but that was only out of respect, not because I was scared that something would happen to me.
“It is the same like when you were scared of your teacher at school.”
Jun Hoong, who won the 10m platform individual gold at the Budapest World Championships in July, said she is upset that Zhuliang is leaving.
“I am disappointed his contract is not being renewed. The results that the team and I have achieved are because of his hard work and dedication.
“I want him to stay because he is recognised in the world. If you follow diving you would know that. I think he deserves recognition for what he has done for us,” she added.