A trip to Bangkok, Thailand for a 2-week training session
As the representing Cambodian coach for the U14 juniors of the nation, I had the pleasure of bringing four beautiful individuals from their hometown Phnom Penh for a two week high-performance training camp in Bangkok, Thailand. At the LTAD facility, they trained on developing their physical speed, agility, and strength with the best coaches in Bangkok and working with the Asian Tennis Association. Other countries invited to train were; Lebanon, Thailand, Pakistan, Nepal, and Malaysia.
This camp is designed for elite tennis players, and many players in the camp headed to tournament play in Thailand preceding the training — which as you may not know, is a big deal for some of the Cambodian players here. A little background on Sen Sophen, our number one player at the age of 14 years, grew up and lived in the orphanage training everyday. This trip definitely had a huge impact on the way he sees life returning back to his dorm where he shares a room with 5 other of his brothers. What a trip this was not only for myself to be there for these players, and also for the federation to have this kind of exposure available for their players to grow and expand.
Sunday was one day the players had the full day off to enjoy. All players were able to hit the waterpark in Bangkok and enjoy some water in the sun.
With a glance from the past, this 8-month trip to Cambodia, working for the Tennis Cambodian Federation was really what turned my love for the sport around. Having been involved from traveling to orphanages, taking kids for beach workouts, traveling to Thailand to train our best juniors, and help with the organization of tournaments and practice across the country, it’s hard to fathom a life without the racket now. These kids have touched a part of my heart which we all share a genuine love for the sport. Below are a few pictures and moments across the nation. Follow the gallery page for more pictures.
