In a open conversation, Coach Olalehin Oluwatunmise Oluwatosin, the Badminton Head Coach of Ondo State, 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.

By Bolaji

Last night was a momentous occasion for me as I had the opportunity to share my story—my journey to becoming the first African Badminton Paralympic medalist at the 2024 Paralympics. The event was hosted by BCA Media to kick off the "Road to LA 2028: Olympics & Paralympics" at Kano Hall, Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

Reflecting on my experiences in badminton, I realized how important it is to emphasize that success doesn't come easy. It's not something that happens overnight or by mere luck. Along the way, I faced setbacks and failures, but each time I fell, I got back up, re-evaluated, and pushed forward with even more determination. This mindset has been crucial in distinguishing me and helping me reach my goals.

Representing Nigeria, a nation bursting with incredible talent and potential, fills me with immense pride. My achievements are not just mine; they are shared with Mikano International Limited, BCA, BFN, and other supportive platforms that believed in my potential.

During my talk, I highlighted the need to remain focused, no matter the challenges. It's vital to keep in mind the bright future you've envisioned and to surround yourself with people who inspire and uplift you.

Looking ahead, I'm excited about the prospect of raising the Nigerian flag even higher at the 2028 Paralympics in Las Vegas. I aim to make Nigeria and Nigerians prouder than ever. The road ahead will surely be demanding, but I'm prepared to put in the necessary effort and perseverance to achieve greatness.

To everyone who has been a part of my journey, thank you. I'm deeply grateful for your support and for the chance to share my story, hoping it inspires others to chase their dreams.