Former doubles shuttler Woon Khe Wei -SHAARI CHEMAT/THESTAR
PETALING JAYA: Life as an independent player may offer more freedom compared to the regimented routine at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara, but that doesn’t mean it comes without pressure.
Former national No. 1 women’s doubles player Woon Khe Wei believes that the lure of lucrative sponsorship deals is one of the main reasons why shuttlers are leaving the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).
However, she also warned that once players leave the national setup, they must adopt a stronger mentality and greater discipline to cope with the demands of life as professionals.
And if they fail to deliver on the international stage, those lucrative endorsements could slowly vanish.
"In my opinion, it’s better to stay with BAM. The players have access to top-class facilities, qualified coaches and trainers, and they don’t have to worry about competition planning or accommodation," said Khe Wei.
“As independents, you need to be much more disciplined. No one is there to monitor you, and it’s easy to fall into complacency. That doesn’t happen in BAM. Coaches are always keeping an eye on you, you have no excuse to skip training.
"Once you’re on your own, it’s easier to convince yourself to take a day or two off due to fatigue or other reasons."
That said, Khe Wei acknowledged that not all players struggle after leaving BAM. She pointed to men’s doubles pair Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani, who have shown marked improvement since parting ways with the national body last August.
Speculation is now swirling around women’s doubles pair Pearly Tan and M. Thinaah, who have yet to sign a new contract with BAM despite their previous deal expiring in December.
It is believed the pair are asking for a higher salary, but BAM have remained firm in their offer.
Should Pearly-Thinaah decide to go independent, Khe Wei believes they won’t have trouble finding sparring partners, even though it may seem at first glance that there are limited women’s pairs outside the national setup.
"I don’t think it’ll be hard for them to get sparring if they turn pro. In fact, it might be easier than in BAM, as there are now many junior players who are also independent.
"But they will need a good coach. Right now, they work well with Rosman Razak, who is currently part of BAM’s coaching staff," she added.
