Trainees: Chan and Goh an inspiration to us

KUALA LUMPUR: The mood is sombre among the young mixed doubles players in the training camp following the exit of their idols Chan Peng Soon and Goh Liu Ying.

Although saddened by the resignations of Peng Soon-Liu Ying, the youngsters promised to put to good use the advices and tips learnt from their seniors in a bid to keep the flag flying high in the mixed doubles department.

The 2016 Olympic silver medallists Peng Soon-Liu Ying left the BA of Malaysia last week to revive their fortunes as independent shuttlers. The duo are ranked sixth in the world but have ended the season without winning any major titles.

Mixed doubles player Chen Tang Jie said he was initially shocked over Peng Soon-Liu Ying’s decision to leave.

Tang Jie has learnt much from Liu Ying, whom he partnered for three months from October to December last year. Together, they won the India International Challenge title in what was the 20-year-old shuttler’s first international tournament.

He currently partners Peck Yen Wei and the duo are already ranked 34th in the world rankings.

“Liu Ying taught me many things when I first joined BAM last year. She guided me and I’m grateful for all that I learnt from her,” said Tang Jie.

“Peng Soon is also a good leader and I feel very comfortable when I play with him as he is experienced and knows what to do.

“They are good seniors as they shared all their experiences with us. It’s sad to see them leave but it’s good that they are ready to take on new challenges.”

Another mixed doubles player Hoo Pang Ron said he was inspired by Peng Soon-Liu Ying.

“They are one of the best seniors in the team and their experience as Olympic medallists is invaluable,” said the 20-year-old, who plays with Cheah Yee See.

“I’ve learnt so much. They have strong fighting spirit and that has inspired us. Even though Liu Ying is often injured, she keeps on fighting.

“They also taught us how to stay strong mentally even when we have our bad days. We’ll miss them.”

Meanwhile, men’s doubles player Goh Sze Fei hopes his seniors Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong will remain in the national team although the duo are mulling over the idea of becoming professional players like Peng Soon and Liu Ying.

“They are always there to give us advice and share strategies. Training with them is also a motivation because they are Olympic medal winners (silver at the 2016 Rio Olympics),” said Sze Fei.

Sze Fei and his partner Nur Izzuddin Rumsani are ranked 49th in the world and came close to winning the India International Challenge but lost in the final.