PETALING JAYA: The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is looking out for a suitable candidate to become the men’s doubles assistant coach.
Doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky revealed that they intend to rope in a local coach.
“We are looking for an assistant coach for the men’s doubles department. Currently, Tan Bin Shen is helming the team and it will be ideal if we have another coach to assist him,” said Rexy.
“We want to hire a local coach.”
When pressed on whether he had any potential candidates in mind, Rexy said: “No, we are still looking. I can only reveal once we have found someone suitable.”
With a crucial year ahead for the men’s doubles pairs with the qualifying period for the 2024 Paris Olympics starting in May, hiring a coach this year may prove beneficial.
Currently, among the pairs in the BAM, reigning world champions Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik (No. 3) and Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani (No. 10) both have the opportunity to make the cut for the Olympics but the latter are set to face stiff competition from independent pair Ong Yew Sin-Teo Ee Yi (No. 7).
Another pair Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun (No. 19) can also sneak into contention if they can perform well this year.
The pairs can lay down an early marker in the first tournament of the year – the Malaysian Open at the Axiata Arena from Jan 10-15.
Rexy was pleased with his charges’ preparations for the home tournament.
“Aaron-Wooi Yik’s form in training is good so far. I also feel that Sze Fei-Izzuddin’s defence has improved,” said Rexy.
“I hope that the players can implement what they are doing in training in their matches.
“For now, we don’t want them to look too far in this tournament as the level will be very high with all the top players competing.
“The main thing now is for the players to stay focused on their job ahead.”
