Another article and interview with Coach Herry IP, talking about MD performances, COVID 19, minions, and future steps for INA MD.
For full article (in Indoneisan) :
http://badmintalk.com/news/Herry-IP-Bicara-Soal-Evaluasi-Minions-dan-Rencana-Berikutnya.htm
Jump to the bits about minions :
Many reporters who watch Kevin/Gideon play feel like that they look like as if they are playing around, and without pressure. What is the psychological approach there?
"I think that's one of their strong point. They enjoy the matches. So many would say that it's different from everyone else. We could say that their appearance or style with the pairs in the past and with the currently active pairs is a bit different. But that's their extra value. In my opinion, they are really enjoying the matches. No pressure, even though there is (pressure) but they enjoy the match so much. That's the characteristic of
The Minions."
The most memorable moment from The Minions for Herry IP was when they won in 2017, why is that?
"Because it was unexpected, that they could win in All England. They were just about to rise up. Actually at that time Ahsan/Hendra was still above them. So, it was so soon for them to succeed in winning one of their dream which was winning in All England, one of the most prestigious tournaments. Almost all top international players want to win All England, so they were very delighted, more over it was their first debut. Their performance was beyond my estimation. Fast, entertaining and some funny actions."
In fact, what do you think of the acts, like swinging the racket but not hitting the shuttle?
"Well, that's one of Kevin's characteristic. Sometimes his can't get his game out if he kept it all in. Therefore when he lets it out and finds his game, he can be free and let off the steam. But in normal days, Kevin is not usually like that. They are only on court acts. Because it would be uncomfortable to play your own friend in training. It's different when it's against the enemy, different expression."
Isn't it seen as teasing the opponents?
"As long as it's not breaking the rules, why not? Be my guest. It's what the crowds are waiting for. It's for entertainment. It's one of a kind attraction and different from others. Just like in the old era we knew a legendary Danish player, (late) Svend Pri, was well-known for his special shots and that kind of style. Maybe this (Kevin) is a bit different."
What about the chance for Olympics Gold?
"As a coach, I have to be optimistic to prepare my players for a better performance in the future. Which opponents we need to watch out, and to pay attention to. Teamwork too. We have to prepare for a tournament like Olympics because it is very important."
Will there be any changes to the program as they are two pairs will be prioritised to go to the Olympics?
"For training program, it will be overall the same. But at the end of the sessions there will be a specialised menu for each player. So, the first, second and third program will be the same. In the last program, the specialised menu will sharpened individual's skills."
Will that specialising take effect when they play players from other country, for example Ahsan/Hendra who can play against Endo/Watanabe compared to Kevin/Marcus?
"Every pair has a bit different playing style of their own. Not every pair is the same. That's what we would like to emphasize. For now it is Ahsan/Hendra who can deal with Endo/Watanabe better than Kevin/Marcus, but I hope if they play each other next time, they can prove that they can also succeed in defeating Endo/Watanabe. We are preparing for that and we are learning too. "
