PETALING JAYA: National doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky has strongly backed calls for stricter disciplinary action against players who continue to break rules at the Academy Badminton Malaysia.
Rexy was responding to remarks by Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei, the Badminton Association of Malaysia performance committee chairman, who recently urged tougher measures against players unwilling to follow regulations within the national set-up, including staying at the ABM hostel.
The Indonesian coach stressed that the rules were not meant to control players, but to help build discipline and responsibility both on and off the court.
“I fully support what Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei said – not 100%, but 10,000%,” said Rexy.
“When we talk about life, not only as athletes but as people, discipline is very important.
“We want the players to grow into disciplined individuals and hopefully we will see positive results in the future.
“Being undisciplined does not mean they are fighting with coaches.
“They are still young and sometimes they forget, so our role is to remind them.”
Rexy also reminded players that life as a national athlete comes with greater public scrutiny and responsibility.
“The players must understand they are no longer ordinary people. Once they join BAM, people will pay attention to what they do.
“And when the public criticise them, it is because they care and want to see them succeed,” he added.
He also made it clear that players unhappy with the national team’s regulations are free to walk away from the programme.
“At home there are rules and discipline too. If you want to leave the house, you can leave. It is the same here. This is a place with discipline. If you do not like it, you are free to go,” said Rexy.
Chong Wei had earlier revealed plans to raise the matter with BAM council members and propose heavier punishment for repeat offenders within the national squad. Several high-profile players have already received warnings for disciplinary breaches, although no final action has been taken so far.
“Warnings will definitely be given, but we also need to decide how many chances should be allowed. If someone keeps receiving repeated warnings, maybe after three warnings that person is no longer suitable to stay here.
“If someone is warned again and again but still refuses to change, then are we talking to a wall or to a human being?” Rexy said.
