Ex-shuttler Vountus returns to take up job as doubles coach

KUALA LUMPUR: Vountus Indra Mawan is back with the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) as a coach – five years after being dropped from the national men’s doubles team.

The 28-year-old Vountus has been chosen to replace Jeremy Gan, who quit as the national men’s doubles coach two weeks ago.

Sabahan Vountus, who was with BAM for 10 years from 2002-2012, was delighted to be back working with head coach Cheah Soon Kit and Rosman Razak.

For the last five years, Vountus has been equipping himself by taking up various coaching courses,

including a six-month stint as the development head coach with a club in Holland.

“I’ve returned more mature, wiser and with a better knowledge as a coach,” said Vountus.

“I didn’t give up after leaving BAM. I saw an opportunity to be a coach. I’ve obtained knowledge on high-performance training, psychology and sports science by attending different courses.”

He has also obtained the highest-level of coaching certification – level three – from the National Sports Institute (NSI).

“I’m surprised with my appointment and grateful to the coaches (Soon Kit and Rosman) for giving me this opportunity to build a new career with the national team,” he said.

Vountus, who was irked by the lack of proper communication when he was dropped by BAM five years ago for a lack of results, is keen to make sure there is proper communication between players and coaches.

“One of my main focus as a coach will be to build a good relationship with the players. Good communication plays a part in a shuttler’s success,” he said.

Soon Kit said that Vountus’ appointment would complement his plan to beef up the 22-member men’s doubles team.

“Rosman and I have put many things in place. Vountus is an ideal candidate to strengthen our team,” said Soon Kit.

“He has gained much valuable experience over the last five years. It’s also important to get a younger coach. This is part of our succession plan.”