The Importance of Role Models in Sports
Kuala Lumpur, October 21
It is vital to have a good role model in sports as it can be the catalyst to producing more successful women athletes and leaders, said former national squash player Sharon Wee.
The Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia (SRAM) deputy president said sports legends like Datuk Nicol Ann David and several other women athletes have proven to be sources of inspiration that contributed to the birth of more talented athletes.
"We can see, for example (in squash), how from Nicol, Low Wee Wern and myself to (now) S. Sivasangari, Aira and Aifa Azman – all of us successful because of the existence of strong role models," she said.
"This is crucial because it gives women athletes the confidence that they can achieve success, be it as an athlete or as a sports leader,” she added when met at the 2024 Women In Sports National Seminar today.
She also emphasized that women’s roles as leaders and administrators in sports must also be appreciated because they have an innate ability to have a deep understanding of an athlete’s emotions.
In addition, Sharon also advised athletes to be wise in managing the use of social media so that they can stay focused and not be affected emotionally.
"Socia media these days is a part of our daily lives and we can’t avoid it. So, athletes must be smart in managing their social media platforms and remain focused on the main objective so that their on-court (or on-field) performance is not affected,” she said.
The two-day seminar, which began today, aims to provide a platform for women sports enthusiasts and women athletes to get together to share experiences and provide motivation and support to advance national sports.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the presence of good role models in sports is crucial for the growth and development of women athletes and leaders. It is essential to appreciate the vital role that women’s leadership and administration play in sports, and to provide support and motivation to help them excel in their respective fields.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the role of a good role model in sports?
A: A good role model in sports can be the catalyst to producing more successful women athletes and leaders.
Q: Who are some notable women athletes that are role models?
A: Sharon Wee mentioned Datuk Nicol Ann David and several other women athletes as examples of role models.
Q: How do social media affect athletes’ performance?
A: Athletes must be smart in managing their social media platforms and remain focused on the main objective so that their on-court (or on-field) performance is not affected.
Q: What is the goal of the 2024 Women In Sports National Seminar?
A: The seminar aims to provide a platform for women sports enthusiasts and women athletes to get together to share experiences and provide motivation and support to advance national sports.