LET’S GET YONGBO
Rashid urges BAM to hire former China supremo
THE BA of Malaysia (BAM) should hire China’s former chief coach, Li Yongbo, as he is the best person to solve the problems faced by their shuttlers and coaches of late.
This was stated by former national coach, Rashid Sidek yesterday.
Rashid feels that Yongbo has a great track record after the former badminton supremo led his nation to numerous gold medals in eight Olympic Games throughout his 24-year career as coach.
However, Rashid feels that Yongbo must be given a special role to develop young players who can go on to become world beaters.
“Yongbo is a coach known across the globe for his strict regime and discipline. The top players, including Lin Dan and Chen Long, regard him highly.
“If we compare Malaysia to countries like China, Japan and South Korea, the difference is in the conditioning and upbringing of young shuttlers.
“It is important for us to start young. A new culture must be instilled in the players, so that they will grow up to have the perfect package, which includes high discipline and mental strength.
“Yongbo must be given a role like that. I know it will take some time, but he should be given a chance to do so.
“I am not saying that our current players are no good at all, but if you want to fix the problem, drastic measures must be taken. That is why, grassroots development is very important.”
Rashid made the comments after NSTP Sport highlighted BAM president Datuk Seri Norza Zakaria’s unhappiness with the national squad, following their poor showing at the All England last week despite all the efforts by the national body.
After coaching the China national team for 24 years, Yongbo, 56, called it quits last April, and is now said to be an adviser to the Chinese Olympic Committee.
Yongbo led China to become the most successful nation in badminton history, winning 18 Olympic gold medals, as well as guiding them to countless victories at the World Championships, Thomas Cup, Uber Cup and Sudirman Cup.
In fact, after the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, Yongbo remarked that Lee Chong Wei would have already been a world champion if he was under the former’s care.
“Chong Wei would have already been world champion, if he was part of my team,” said Yongbo.