A conversation with Coach Olalehin Oluwatunmise Oluwatosin,head oach of the Ondo state Badminton, National Junior Coach in Nigeria, and Badminton World Federation Certified Level 1 Coach, shared his inspiring journey, challenges, and vision for the sport.
Meet Coach Olalehin
“Good morning, my name is Olalehin Oluwatunmise Oluwatosin. I’m the Badminton Head Coach of Ondo State, National Junior Coach in Nigeria, and a Badminton World Federation Certified Level 1 Coach.”
The Impact of Coaching
“Being a coach has been a great profession that has impacted me in terms of popularity, financial stability, traveling, and exposure. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had.”
Debunking the popular opinion: Badminton’s Value
“Some people believe badminton isn’t a sport that brings rewards. However, I disagree. The issue lies in our country’s one-sided approach to sports. Nevertheless, badminton has still managed to provide for us and is a complete sport with numerous benefits.”
Growing the Sport
“To bring more people into the game, I focus on training and winning laurels. Success breeds interest, and that’s the only way to convince investors and attract new players. Ondo State has a rich history of producing badminton champions, and I’m committed to continuing that legacy.”
Overcoming Challenges
“The greatest challenge I’ve faced is when my family thought I was wasting my time. Some players also showed ungrateful attitudes. However, I overcame these obstacles by believing in myself and my passion for the sport. Despite financial and family problems, I persevered, and my dedication paid off.”
The Future of Badminton
“Badminton is an Olympic sport, and its popularity is growing. The fact that badminton players were the captains of all athletes at the last Olympics game demonstrates its significance. I’m optimistic about the future of badminton in our country.”
Managing Academics and Sports
“My athletes, mostly students, face challenges balancing academics and sports. To cope, we create personalized training schedules, ensuring they can manage their time effectively. For those in higher institutions or schools far from Akure, we utilize technology for remote training and monitoring.”
Coach Olalehin’s inspiring story, dedication, and passion for badminton are a testament to the sport’s transformative power. As he continues to nurture champions and grow the sport, his legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the world of badminton.
Credit to circle mark