Athletes need more encouragement

Standing Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the SEA Games Organising Committee, Mr Somsavat Lengsavad, has urged all 25 sporting federations to further encourage athletes training for the SEA Games later this year.
“The games are rapidly approaching and encouragement for our athletes is lacking so I want all federations to boost their encouragement for those who will compete on behalf of our country,” he said at a recent meeting between the committee and federations.
He said all Lao athletes had sacrificed much in their dedication to compete for their country and could be discouraged by the lack of support from sporting officials.
He cited the example of some athletes who had returned home from training abroad because they had a sick family member but were disappointed by the lack of support from their respective federation.
“Such events leave our athletes with bad feelings and they feel there is no one to help them when they face a problem,” Mr Somsavat said.
He said if an athlete's relative fell ill federation officials should take care of that person and their family in a show of support for the athlete's dedication to their country.
Such problems may seem small and inconsequential and are easy to overlook, so the federations must take care to pay close attention to such details in the lead-up to the games, he said.
Mr Somsavat said all federations should regularly meet with their athletes to consult with them and find out if they are facing any problems.
He asked each federation to set up a team to oversee this aspect and solve any issues raised by athletes.
“Doing so will encourage athletes in their endeavours and allow them to fully concentrate on preparing for the games.”
The meeting also heard that athletes receive 45,000 kip per day for food plus 25,000 kip for additional expenses.
Mr Somsavat called for a 15,000 kip increase in the food allowance from October 1 as part of efforts to further encourage athletes.
“Each federation should discuss athletes' dietary requirements with nutritionists to ensure they are able to train and perform at their peak,” he said.
Source : http://www.vientianetimes.org.la/Site_SeaGames/News/News_Archive/News_Athletes.htm