Mirabai Chanu Reflects on Asian Games Success and Coaching Dynamics

A Long-Awaited Victory

Finally, the pressure of the Asian Games has lifted off my shoulders. This medal was something I had always yearned for, and I am thrilled to have achieved it in Aichi-Nagoya.

Japan: A Lucky Venue

Japan has proven to be a fortunate place for me. I secured an Olympic silver medal in Tokyo in 2020, and once again, I returned home with a medal. The journey of an athlete involves constant reflection and adaptation. The Asian Games have imparted numerous lessons, with the most significant being the importance of determination. My resilience has been tested repeatedly, especially when serious injuries threatened my career.

Overcoming Challenges

After missing the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta due to a lower back issue, I faced another setback at the 2023 Games in Hangzhou when a severe thigh and hip injury hindered my chances for a medal. However, in Aichi-Nagoya, I was in peak condition, and I owe my gratitude to my coach, trainer, and physiotherapist for their exceptional preparation. The ongoing debate about Indian versus foreign coaches is always prevalent. Personally, I have never felt the necessity for a foreign coach, but that is my individual perspective.

The Importance of National Coaching

For me, my heart belongs to India. Under the guidance of national coach Vijay Sharma, my career has evolved and thrived. He has been a steadfast support since 2014, and our bond has only grown stronger. The revamped Khelo India initiative aims to enhance sports development, including plans for a National Coach Accreditation Board to standardize coaching qualifications. It is crucial to have skilled coaches at the grassroots level in districts and panchayats, making sports engaging and enjoyable while teaching foundational skills.

Balancing Coaching Approaches

There is a distinct difference between grassroots coaching and high-performance coaching. While we have competent Indian coaches, they require more opportunities for advancement. Foreign specialists can play a complementary role, particularly in areas like injury management, sports medicine, and recovery. In my journey, Dr. Aaron Horschig was instrumental before the Tokyo Olympics.

Enhancing the Support Ecosystem

His background as a former weightlifter and sports physical therapist provided a unique approach to treating my shoulder and lower back injuries. Indian coaches are indeed skilled, but the challenge lies in integrating overseas specialists to enhance the overall support system, ultimately making our athletes more effective.

Conclusion

By

Saikhom Mirabai Chanu