Itanagar: The Arunachal State Badminton Association (ASBA) has roped in ace Indonesian shuttler Muhammad Aras Razak as the state’s badminton coach for the next two years.
The ASBA and Razak have signed a memorandum of understanding through which the latter would be coaching around 20 shuttlers (9-17 years of age) from the state under the ‘Catch them Young’ initiative.
The initiative aims to groom the athletes for the 2028 Summer Olympic Games and other international tournaments.
Razak who has won several medals for Indonesia at national and international level events has been in the coaching field for the past 25 years.
Speaking to media persons at the Press Club here on Thursday, Razak asserted that he would give his best to ensure that the shuttlers from Arunachal are prepared to participate in international level events in the next two-three years. Latest: Arunachal Footballer Gyamar Nikum called for National Football Camp
“I thank the ASBA for giving me the opportunity to coach the young shuttlers of Arunachal. I am sure with the support and cooperation of the association, especially the parents of the kids, we can nurture several talented players from the state,” Razak said.
ASBA president Techi Rotu said with the arrival of a highly skilled coach like Razak, the standard of Arunachalee shuttlers will reach new heights in the days and years to come.
He appealed to the state government, athletes and the parents to extend every possible support to the ASBA in the mission.
ASBA secretary Bamang Tago said to have a permanent coach for the state’s badminton players was a long felt dream which has finally been accomplished with the help of the state government and Rotu.
“Now, that we have a renowned and experienced coach in Arunachal, we hope that our athletes will shine in both national and international badminton events in the days to come,” he said, adding that Razak’s arrival will also enhance the potential of the state’s shuttlers.
Tago also informed that the athletes will soon also get an opportunity to practice in an international standard badminton court which is under construction at Chimpu near here.
