The other day quite a few said that it might be a bit tough for the Indian paddlers at the Jakarta Asian Games. But its chief coach Massimo Costantini believes they stand an even better chance to what happened eight years ago.
The Italian cites two reasons — they now command better respect than before for having won important tournaments and for the steady climb in the world rankings. “This makes the team very strong. The players’ perception have also changed for the good. They are now confident.”
Camp in China
About the team’s preparation, he says they did not get enough time at the training camp. We are heading to China in a couple of days for a ten-day camp in order to play different styles and partners but, we are preparing like any other team.”
Costantini says the team went through important tests in both Korea and Australia. “I got some important signals from there regarding the form of the players. Some stars might have lost the battle here in Coimbatore. This brings in a big question whether the team is ready for the Games, and I firmly say they are.”
“Domestic competition has got nothing to do with international events. I am not worried too much because the players in the squad will give their 200 per cent,” he adds.
He says the players are now fearless. “They are playing to their skills and have not gone on the defensive. When you train and prepare for certain set of skills it is stupid if they do not apply them. But this time, I see them determined and mentally strong.”
“We know our opponents and I have told them clearly what to do and what not to. I am confident that both the men’s and the women’s team will make it to the quarterfinal. But, from there, it depends on the draw,” he adds.
His advice to the players: “Don’t be afraid, impose your game and your personality. And, that’s the winning formula.”
