PETALING JAYA: Friendship has led former national men's singles shuttler Soong Joo Ven to extend a helping hand to Ng Tze Yong, who will begin his independent career on Wednesday (July 1).
Joo Ven, a former national men's singles shuttler, is now one of the coaches at the Petaling Jaya-based Next Level Badminton Academy, where Tze Yong will train after leaving the national set-up.
And knowing Tze Yong's determination and talent, Joo Ven is positive his former teammate will return to top again.
"Tze Yong and I were very close friends when we were in the national team. Even after I left BAM, we've remained good friends," said Joo Ven.
Having made the switch to the independent circuit himself in 2020, Joo Ven believes Tze Yong can revive his career, provided he remains patient and fully recovers from his injury.
"The important thing is that he knows what he wants to achieve in his career. I think that's very important," said Joo Ven.
"I hope he's still hungry to win and regain that winning momentum.
"But for now, the most important thing is his body. Everything else will come once he's fully fit again," said Joo Ven.
Tze Yong reached a mutual agreement with the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) to part ways, with the decision taking effect today. The former No. 1 has not made a comeback to the international scene for sometime due to his slow recovery.
Joo Ven revealed that Tze Yong approached him only a few days ago about joining Next Level Badminton Academy, and the coaching team were more than happy to welcome him.
"Recently, Tze Yong asked if he could join our academy and train with our group. Of course, we're more than happy to have him," said Joo Ven.
Joo Ven added that the coaching team at Next Level Badminton Academy will also help Tze Yong through his recovery from the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury he suffered last year.
"We have our own team, and we're always ready to help him because we know what he's capable of. He has a beautiful playing style, excellent technique and great skills. He's also achieved a lot in the past.
"Unfortunately, injuries interrupted his progress. Of course, we're looking forward to seeing him make a comeback, but the priority is still making sure his body is fully ready," he added.
The newly established academy is owned by Joo Ven's father, Soong Nyen Yew, and also has Tan Li Bin and King Kien Hwa as coaches for their elite squad.
The academy has also worked with reigning national champion Ong Zhen Yi, while youngster Huan Kai Hern is currently competing in the Canadian Open in Markham this week.
