KUALA LUMPUR – Athletes should be given credit when credit is due, instead of overly stroking their ego, of which excessive unwarranted praise may only provide a fleeting sense of self-worth.
National badminton coaching director Rexy Mainaky expressed this concern as it applies to national shuttlers who often struggle to accept criticism amidst the pressure and defeats they face.
Rexy stressed the importance of constructive criticism for the shuttlers, urging a shift from constant praise to fostering long-term success.
“When your kids do something bad, you can’t always say ‘it’s okay’, but you never criticise them for what they did wrong.
“At times, you can praise them but not all the time. If coaches can be criticised, why not the players?” said Rexy during a press conference at Akademi Badminton Malaysia (ABM) today.
Rexy also said that there must be a delicate balance between praise and criticism, adding that the necessity of constructive feedback is an essential element in nurturing players’ growth.
“Sometimes they need a bit of criticism. We can’t always coddle them because, in truth, it will only slowly kill their careers. I don’t want to be that kind of coach.
“Criticising them is an expression of love; it’s a desire to see them improve.
“When people say (to the players) to ‘bounce back’ and ‘come back stronger’, I’m not sure if the players truly understand what it means,” he added.
Rexy pointed out the potential pitfalls of constant positive reinforcement, cautioning against creating a culture of victimhood among players.
He referenced this concern from various shuttlers, including mixed doubles pair Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei, women’s doubles pair Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah, and men’s doubles pair Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik.
“In a way, excessive praise creates a victim. Once your favourite player is gone, you go find another player to make a victim of your coddling.
“Our players only want to listen to good things, but they must also learn to accept constructive criticism well. Otherwise, they become panicked and under self-imposed pressure.
“The same goes for Tang Jie-Ee Wei, Pearly-Thinaah, and Aaron-Wooi Yik. At least Aaron-Wooi Yik have gotten better (in handling the criticism).
“If you really love your players and support them, sometimes you would need to (knock some sense into them). Build them up,” added Rexy. – December 19, 2023