KUALA LUMPUR: Former world squash champion Datuk Nicol David knows what it takes to be successful, and she has special advice for Paris Olympic-bound shuttler Goh Jin Wei.
Jin Wei's coach Nova Armada will not be in Paris to assist Malaysia's sole representative in the women's singles event due to the limited number of accreditations accorded to the country by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Instead, BA of Malaysia (BAM) coaches, including its coaching director Rexy Mainaky, will support Jin Wei, an independent shuttler, in Paris.
Nicol, who is Malaysia's Olympic deputy chef de mission, is an eight-time world champion and is regarded as one of the greatest players in squash.
The 41-year-old has assured Jin Wei that she will receive all the support in Nova's absence when the Paris Olympics begin.
"Having a coach during a competition is always important for support. Even if there are complications, ensuring that a coach is available for all athletes is our top priority," said Nicol.
"As an athlete, that's always a tough position to be in, but there will be plenty of support to make sure everything is in place. Let's hope for the best."
At the Olympics, surprises are always possible. For instance, Kevin Cordon of Guatemala made it to the semi-finals of the Tokyo Games three years ago. Hence, Jin Wei should not be completely ruled out.
Meanwhile, BAM director of administration Michelle Chai said Jin Wei will not be heading into her battles at Porte de la Chapelle Arena later this month without the assistance of a coach.
According to Michelle, the national badminton team have been allotted only five accreditation passes for coaches.
These have been given to Rexy, Wong Tat Meng (men's singles), Tan Bin Shen (men's doubles), Hoon Thien How (women's doubles), and Nova Widianto (mixed doubles).
However, Nova may still make the trip and guide Jin Wei, though he will not be able to sit behind her during the matches.
"We will definitely assist Jin Wei, but as to who will coach her, we will leave it to Rexy to discuss with the shuttler," said Michelle. "I believe the discussion has already taken place between Rexy and Jin Wei. The details will be disclosed as the date draws closer.
"Jin Wei is aware of the arrangement, so it shouldn't be an issue. Once they are in Paris, everything will be ironed out."
Michelle explained that due to the limited number of accreditations, the team are facing complications.
For example, psychologist Frederick Tan will not have access to the athletes' village and will travel under a separate arrangement.
To be fair to Jin Wei, none of the five coaches can fully compensate for Nova's absence, given his intimate understanding of her mental and physical abilities and playing style.
Jin Wei, making her Olympic debut, is not seen as a potential medal hopeful.
However, she has shown on many occasions that she can challenge her more illustrious opponents to the limit.