The Japanese way has Jeremy thrilled
Self-discipline is tough. There are a million distractions and so many more enjoyable things to do.
But not in Japan, says former national coach Jeremy Gan.
The discipline and attitude of the Japanese has left Jeremy, the country’s mixed doubles coach since 2018, amazed.
Unlike Malaysia, Japan have not announced neither movement control order nor lockdown in the midst of Covid19 pandemic but still, the Japan BA have decided to close the national badminton training centre.
“People here are very disciplined and obedient. They stay away from gatherings and work from home even without any official closure,” said Jeremy.
“The players are following the instructions although they are on their own.”
It’s the same discipline and dedication that Jeremy appreciates from his players.
“I’ve been here for more than two years, I respect the players’ training commitment,” said Jeremy, who is Japan’s pioneer mixed doubles coach.
Under his guidance, Yuta WatanabeArisa Higashino won the All-England title in 2018, the country’s first pair to do so.
He also has two other pairs Takuro Hoki-Wakana Nagahara and Kohei Gondo-Ayane Kurihara under his wings but they do not have high rankings and are only able to take part in lower ranked tournaments.
“Watanabe is one of a kind. He’s good in both the mixed doubles and men’s doubles (with Hiroyuki Endo). He is very determined to achieve success,” he said.
“Japan also have a systematic training programme. We know all the plans one year in advance.
“Even if there are changes, it will be minor ones. That makes it easier on the coaches.
During the break from on court training and competitions, Jeremy said he has been devoting his time on match analyses.
“Mixed doubles play has become quite predictable as every pair seems to know each other’s strength and weakness. We’re looking at adding something special in our players’ approach and game,” he said.
While focused on his job, Jeremy admits that he misses his family – and nasi lemak. But he knows that all his longings have to wait until the Covid-19 situation gets better.
Jeremy has not returned home since the Chinese New Year celebrations in January.
“I wanted to head back home but I have to go through a 14-day quarantine. Then, when I return to Japan, I’ll have to go through another 14 days in isolation. That’s 28 days! Besides, I did not want to take the risk of endangering my family,” said Jeremy.
“My wife has been handling everything by herself and I’m grateful to her. I will take the family for a nice and spicy nasi lemak meal when I get home.”