KUCHING: Never mind serving another sports powerhouse state but renowned top sports psychologist from Sarawak Frederick Tan has embarked on another chapter in his career – this time as director of the Pulau Pinang State Sports Council (MSNPP or PSSC).
NEW CHALLENGE: Tan is now the director of Pulau Pinang State Sports Council.
It would be a challenging start for Tan and he is not looking at 2011 for immediate results. Instead it would be a long-term plan to transform Pulau Pinang into a sports powerhouse in the country.
For the sports science specialist, it was a reunion with the state after ten years.
“I was in Pulau Pinang in 1999-2000 to help with their preparation for Sukma VIII. It had never crossed my mind that I would be picked for the job and I do feel very honoured to be tasked to lead Pulau Pinang sports,” he told Borneo Post in a telephone interview from Pulau Pinang yesterday.
Tan resigned from National Sports Institute (ISN) Sarawak Satellite Centre on Dec 31, 2010 and commenced work as MSNPP director on Jan 1 this year.
“I have been picked because of my years of working experience as a motivator, psychologist, course instructor able to run leadership camp for team-building and conduct mental toughness camp for elite athletes,” he added.
Tan headed the ISN Sarawak Satellite Centre, which was one of the pioneer centres for ISN pilot satellite centre project, since 2006.
Apart from helping the state contingent prepare for Sukma 2006-2010, Tan has also worked closely with the National Sports Council, Malaysia and National Sports Institute, Malaysia with high commitment, dedication, passion and discipline.
He has also worked with top world-class national athletes like shuttler Datuk Lee Chong Wei, keglers; hockey team; Kata team; basketball team and many more.
Tan also has vast experience in running development programmes.
While helming the ISN Sarawak Satellite Centre, he worked very closely with the Sarawak State Sports Council (MSN), State Education Department, professionals like Dr Ong Kong Swee and Dr Chin Hon Siong and officials from sports associations.
“I would like to personally thank MSNS director Francis Nyurang Ding for giving me and the satellite centre his fullest support during my time of service in Kuching,” said Tan.
Nyurang said he felt happy for Tan with his appointment as MSNPP director and wished him all the best in his new undertaking.
“I am also proud that a fellow Sarawakian has been appointed to lead the MSNPP and I believe he is a capable person for the job,” he said.
It was understood that Tan will be replaced by sports physiologist Joshua Philip.
“I will continue to render my support and cooperation to Joshua and I believe the team of sports experts at the satellite centre will do likewise,” said Nyurang.