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28th December, 2008
KUALA LUMPUR: The Hashim twins from Kelantan – Hafizi and Hafifi – brothers of the more famous Hafiz and Roslin – will embark on a new journey after the ongoing National Juniors 100Plus Inter-state Mixed Team Championships – with hopes of making a name for themselves in their badminton career.
The duo will not return to Kampung Sireh in Kota Baru after the inter-state juniors meet but will join professional club Nusa Mahsuri.
They strongly believe joining the club is the only way to improve their game and to follow in their elder siblings’ footsteps by donning national colours.
The elder of the twins by two minutes, Hafizi said they have it in them to make a name for themselves if they are given the right guidance and coaching.
“What we need is a systematic approach in our training. We need proper coaching, good sparring partners and proper training facilities to improve our game,” said Hafizi.
“We are willing to make sacrifices and go the extra mile to go far in our badminton career.”
In terms of sacrifices, Hafizi was obviously referring to the brothers’ family business back home in Kota Baru where they have a sports shop.
“We have no choice but to make the move to Selangor. Our badminton career has become stagnant. It will only get worse if we remain in Kelantan.
“Badminton is limited in Kelantan and we don’t have sparring partners. There are also not many facilities in Kota Baru when it comes to training,” said Hafizi.
Hafizi said Kelantan came to the 100Plus Juniors meet ill-prepared. The East Coast state’s 11-0 whitewash at the hands of defending champions Kuala Lumpur in their opening Group A match at Stadium Juara yesterday, is testimony to the team’s lack of preparations.
“We came without any training. It is not a surprise that we lost badly. We are not only lacking in experience but also in fitness.
“Many coaches have told me I can make a career in badminton if only I can improve my fitness.
Hafizi donned Selangor colours in 2005 and won the Selangor Schools doubles title. He returned to Kelantan in 2006 and won a triple – the Boys’ Under-18 singles, doubles and mixed doubles titles. Last year he was the singles and doubles champion.
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