KUALA LUMPUR: National chief coach Rashid Sidek has advised back-up shuttler Chan Kwong Beng to help himself first if he harbours hopes of reviving his flagging badminton career.

Rashid said that he did not stop Kwong Beng from turning to Hendrawan for help but “I told him that the change must start from himself”.

“I also advised him to be more committed in training,” said Rashid.

A coach contributes 20% to the rise of a player, the other 80% is all down to the players’ hard work, sacrifices and commitment. - RASHID SIDEK

On Wednesday, the 24-year-old Kwong Beng said that his progress had stagnated over the last two years under Rashid and he wanted to train under Hendrawan in a bid to re-ignite his career.

Besides Kwong Beng, Rashid had also focused more on Liew Daren and Chong Wei Feng during training.

All three have also been sparring daily with world No. 2 Lee Chong Wei at the national centre.

“Even a good coach cannot guarantee an athlete’s success unless the player does his part. A coach contributes 20% to the rise of a player, the other 80% is all down to the players’ hard work, sacrifices and commitment,” said Rashid.

“Yes, Kwong Beng told me that he wanted a change. I have no objection but this decision must be approved and supported by the CNT (coaching and training committee, which will meet on Sept 8).

“I explained to him that changing coaches is not the only way out.

“He has to change his own ways too – even under Hendrawan. He must be ready to go the extra mile. Even a short training session can be effective if the shuttler trains properly.”

Rashid, the country’s former top men’s singles shuttler, said that Chong Wei was the perfect role model for younger players and is disappointed that the back-up shuttlers are not making full use of the world No. 2’s experience.

“Who will benefit most if they train regularly with Chong Wei? It is the back-up players. Chong Wei gives his all in training ... that’s why he is the most consistent player in the world,” said Rashid.

“Chong Wei also motivates the players during training but a change will not take place unless the players are willing to push themselves to the limit in training.

“Chong Wei has a soft spot for Kwong Beng. Chong Wei even selected Kwong Beng to spar with him during the London Olympic Games.

“It is a joy for coaches when they see their players making giant strides in their careers. It gives us even greater joy when a player takes his own initiative to improve himself.”

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