Tan Boon Heong, with his record of the fastest smasher in the world with the speed of 493km/h, is now also well-known for his live commentaries on Facebook. Born on 18 September 1987 in Alor Setar, Kedah, this badminton player has made countless efforts in helping his fellow shuttlers in realising their dreams.
Having medals after medals in his arsenal, he surely is the right person to listen to regarding this infamous sport. From establishing his own academy to his live commentaries, let’s further dive in on his grassroots development.
TBH Badminton Academy
TBH Badminton Academy has up to 200 badminton players aged between 7 and 17 years old and is now operating with three full-time coaches in six different locations, namely: Petaling Jaya, Kepong, Subang, Puchong, Sungai Buloh and Kota Damansara.
However, due to the pandemic, Tan Boon Heong has admittedly experienced some hardship.
“My main objective is to churn out badminton champions, not to make big profits. The Covid-19 has made it very challenging, but I am not quitting yet. I will make sure the TBH Academy survives these tough times,” said Tan Boon Heong.
Throughout the Movement Control Order (MCO), the training was done via Zoom App five days a week, nevertheless, TBH mentioned that it is tough to monitor the players through online sessions.
Gladly, with the vaccination for adolescents aged 12 to 17 is already up and running, TBH Badminton Academy announces on Facebook that the training sessions will begin again in October 2021, with the assurance that they will be done during non-operational hours.
Tan Boon Heong is committed to producing top players for the nation. He mentioned that he does not want his knowledge and experience to go to waste, and that is one of the ways for him to give back to the community.
TBH TV
Tan Boon Heong, the former World No. 1 Malaysian professional badminton player in the men’s doubles, has now also established TBH TV.
TBH TV is where fans of the sport can find his live commentaries on badminton matches such as Sudirman Cup 2021 and Thomas Cup 2021.
There are also training videos like how to serve, how to hold the racket, and how to strengthen the jumping ability.
On the other hand, the interviews with other badminton stars such as the 2020 Paralympic Gold Medalist Cheah Liek Hou and 2020 Olympics Men’s Double Champion Lee Yang can also be accessed through TBH TV.
Regarding the commentaries, Tan Boon Heong stated that there is no better person to do it than a former player.
“I can explain about the players’ techniques and what he did right or wrong. At times, I’m also able to give additional insights as I know the players,” stated the ace.
Many fans are enjoying his commentaries as they are done in an informal way, despite his years of experience on the court. He also mixes his language up, with the hopes that all of his Malaysian fans would be able to have a listen and enjoy them.
His efforts should be praised and supported.
