Personal Coaches Deserve Recognition in Athlete Development, Says Vijay Kumar
Olympic medalist Vijay Kumar believes that both personal and national coaches play crucial roles in an athlete’s development. He emphasizes that personal coaches deserve recognition for their contributions in nurturing athletes to the elite level.
Kumar cites the examples of Manu Bhaker and Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, who have opted for personal coaches in preparation for the Paris Olympics. He argues that this trend is not detrimental and that personal coaches should receive due credit.
According to Kumar, national coaches provide the final polish and guidance, helping athletes improve their scores and manage pressure in international competitions. However, he stresses that personal coaches lay the foundation and bring athletes to the point where they can benefit from national coaching.
Kumar believes that the shooting federation should appoint coaches with proven international experience and success. These coaches can impart valuable knowledge and techniques to their wards, enabling them to handle challenging situations and perform at their best.
He also criticizes the Indian shooting team’s preparations for Paris, suggesting that a clear roadmap should have been established six months prior to the event. Kumar emphasizes the importance of timely trials, foreign exposure, and specialized training in the lead-up to major competitions.
While acknowledging the growing trend of fitness and mental trainers, Kumar expresses some skepticism about their necessity. He believes that a strong upbringing and competitive environment can provide athletes with the necessary mental fortitude.
Kumar highlights the importance of being surrounded by talented athletes, as it fosters inspiration and motivation. He credits his growth as a shooter to the presence of exceptional marksmen at the Army Marksmanship Unit in Mhow.