KUCHING: Coaching young shuttlers today comes with unique challenges, says J-Pro Academy Kuching assistant head coach, Rajeev Bijoy, who stresses balancing discipline with enjoyment to motivate the next generation.
Rajeev, who has been coaching on and off for about three to four years, is currently focused on developing players aged four to twelve – an age group he believes holds the greatest potential for long-term growth.
He pointed out that nowadays, younger players tend to be more playful, and less firm compared to past generations.
“There are players that really want to train, and there are players that come here for leisure. So, we have to actually segregate which ones we can focus on, and which ones we can be a bit more lenient with,” he explained.
In an interview with Sarawak Tribune recently, Rajeev said the academy emphasises attitude and character as much as skill.
He believes that with consistent training – even just two to four times a week – young players will naturally improve and develop greater motivation.
“If they come to training frequently, three to four times a week or even twice a week, they will actually become better. From there, they will gain interest in playing badminton. That’s when they will be more encouraged and motivated to come,” he said.
“Oh yeah, I want to come here and train, I want to be a Sarawak player, I want to be a national player. That’s where their mind-set will come from.”
Rajeev, who assist the academy’s head coach, Kong Chee Kiet, highlighted the social benefits of badminton for children.
“I would say that here in J-Pro, we emphasise attitude and character. We want them to be disciplined. It’s not just about being a good player on the court; you also need to have discipline off the court. That’s what we focus on most,” he stressed.
For beginners or those new to badminton, Rajeev draws on his own experiences to instil positive habits early.
“For me, I try to pass on what I learned when I was younger. I don’t want them to adopt this generational attitude and character where they keep playing on their phones and show no respect,” he said.
Rajeev described badminton as a fun and enjoyable sport that brings people together.
“For kids, (they come here) it’s a place where they make new friends, start talking to people, and build connections at a young age. And then slowly, they develop discipline under J-Pro,” he said.
