KUALA LUMPUR: Tan Boon Heong has recruited independent shuttler Soong Joo Ven to produce talent at his academy.
While Boon Heong, a former world No. 1 men's doubles with Koo Kien Keat, has been focusing on doubles at the TBH Academy, he needed someone with international experience like Joo Ven.
Joo Ven, 29, whose highest world ranking was No. 44 in 2022, retired from international events after the North Harbour competition in Auckland last October after battling for more than a year with injuries.
Boon Heong said that Joo Ven, will beworking with a group of players, aged between 15 and 17, at his academy.
"Joo Ven has a lot of international experience and his presence should inspire the budding junior shuttlers at our academy," said Boon Heong who has several TBH centres in the Klang Valley.
"Once we start seeing results, we will also attract top juniors from other countries to come and train at our academy.
"We are committed to nurturing future champions with world class training and support."
Joo Ven said the initiative was still in early stages, but he is happy to be able to give back to the sport that has served him well.
"I want to share my experience with the players who are aspiring to become international shuttlers," he added.