Be a good sport

dividing time between training, competition, classes and studies.

Moreover, it is beyond student athletes’ control as sports associations determine the competitions and training programmes.

“Therefore, the sport associations, National Sports Council and universities must work together for what is best for sports without compromising the athletes’ responsibilities as students,” said Mohamad Faithal.

Student athletes at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) pursue courses at its Faculty of Sports Science and Recreation and its sports centre director Mustaza Ahmad said they have to achieve results set by the sport associations and do well academically too.

Mohamad Faithal added: “In UM, we have designed a special programme for student athletes in order for them to participate in competitions or overseas training stints and keep their studies on track at the same time.

“Notes are uploaded online. Even though the mode of study is slightly different from other students, the assessment is the same. Student athletes are required to complete their projects and assignments and make presentations.

“They sit special tests if they miss the examinations.”

FLEXIBLE LEARNING

National netball team player Nurul Adha Abu Bakar, 23, finds being both a student and an athlete demanding, not only physically but also mentally.

“I am in my final year of a computer science degree course at UPM. In a normal scenario, I complete 12 to 15 credit hours per semester, but if I have to compete in a major tournament, the faculty advises me to take only three to six credit hours per semester.

“This flexible learning helps me to cope with my studies and I can concentrate when I am training,” she said.

Her daily routine begins with training from 7am to 9am. Then she attends classes and trains again from 4pm to 6pm.

“During my spare time, I review lessons I have missed and at times my coursemates help me to revise. I meet