TWO hundred twenty gold medals, this is the bold prediction of sports leaders for the medal haul of Team Philippines for the 30th SEA Games. About 45 out of the 56 NSAs who will be participating is taking on this task from November 30-December 11, 2019.
Can we pull it off?
The support of the PSC, POC and other government agencies to the athletes and coaches were so evident in the last couple of years. This support may be the foundation in which they are bracing their predictions.
This support is apparent in various ways, such as provision for better dorms, nutrition programs for athletes, access to technical and scientific approaches to training, and of course, incentives. The government, through the PSC, has not been amiss in taking care of athletes and coaches. Perhaps the bold prediction is their way of expressing their gratitude for all the support they have received.
This mutual support is as essential as it can get. There is a business adage that goes: “When employees are happy, they are your best ambassadors. -James Sinegal,” This can also be applied in the context of Philippine sports, though these athletes are not employees, they act as ambassadors during international competitions. And if your ambassadors are not happy, then they cannot represent us well. Knowing how the good chairman works, his ways of keeping the athletes and coaches happy and motivated is now paying dividends with the hard work and dedication shown by the athletes.
The athletes and coaches are motivated and inspired. What else can lead us to achieve the 220-gold medal prediction? We can start by saying a little prayer for our athletes and coaches as they gear up for the SEA Games. The government cannot support the athletes by themselves. Private support is also needed. And lastly, our support. We can play the “6th man’s” role in the games. Cheer for our athletes, watch their games if we can. These are little things we can do to support our Team Philippines.
Indeed, skepticism from all over is meeting this bold prediction. We cannot control how others view and feel about the forecast, but we can control how we can express our support. Again, let us unite for a common cause. Let us not ridicule the prediction. Instead, help them achieve it through our prayers and support.