Vinesh Phogat’s failure to secure a medal at the Paris Olympics is not just a personal loss; it is a reflection of the larger failures within the Indian Wrestling Federation (WFI) and the coaching systems. Being disqualified from the finals due to an excess weight of just 100 grams is a deeply disappointing incident for Vinesh and the entire nation. This episode highlights the glaring shortcomings in Indian sports administration.
Vinesh Phogat’s Preparation and Coaching Team’s Failure
The most concerning aspect of Vinesh Phogat’s case is the failure of her coaching and support team. Knowing in advance that Vinesh had to shift from the 53 kg category to the 50 kg category, why was her weight not managed more effectively to prevent her disqualification before the final match? It was the responsibility of her coach, dietitian, and doctor to ensure that her weight remained within the prescribed limits. Their failure to do so raises serious questions about their competence and preparedness.
The Failure of the Indian Wrestling Federation
The underperformance of the Indian wrestling contingent at the Paris Olympics cannot be solely blamed on the athletes. The Indian Wrestling Federation (WFI) has shown a complete lack of ability to provide the necessary mental and physical support to its athletes. At the Olympic level, athletes require top-tier care and support, which the federation failed to deliver. The disruptions caused by internal issues within the WFI, including the sexual harassment allegations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, had a detrimental impact on the athletes’ preparations.
The Decline of Indian Wrestling Post-Tokyo Olympics
The struggles faced by Indian wrestling since the Tokyo Olympics were evident in the performance at the Paris Olympics. The internal problems within the wrestling federation, the lack of coaching camps, and the absence of adequate support for the athletes led to a disappointing showing in Paris. The fact that no national coaching camps were organized and that wrestlers had to prepare with their own coaches and support staff significantly contributed to the failure at the Olympics.
Conclusion
Vinesh Phogat’s loss is not just a failure of her personal efforts; it is a result of the collective failure of the Indian Wrestling Federation and the coaching systems. This incident clearly exposes the shortcomings of our sports administration. To succeed on the grand stage of the Olympics, it is not just the hard work of the athletes that matters, but also the dedication and responsibility of the organizations and coaching staff that are equally crucial.
Tags:
Vinesh Phogat, Indian Wrestling Federation, Paris Olympics, Indian Wrestling, Sports Administration, Coaching Failure, Olympic Preparation, Women Wrestlers, Sports Policy, Sexual Harassment Allegations
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