TUC 2010 Moments – Aaron’s Angle (i)

This is the first in a series of short pieces.  On this occasion Aaron takes a look at the small moments where people are the best version of themselves.

Photos: BadmintonPhoto (live)

ONLY CONNECT

The first night of badminton’s Thomas and Uber Cups (TUC) commenced at 6pm, and Malaysia’s men appreciatively lined up to bow to the small Mother’s Day crowd who turned out to see them not knowing they would not be removing their tracksuits due to opponents Nigeria missing their flight and matches.  Two groups of kids, one bunch wearing school uniforms, cheered with undiluted and unconditional energy, especially for their hero, world #1 Lee Chong Wei.  One group used their own lyrics and chanted their affection to what sounded like the tune of “Oh When The Saints Go Marching In”.

If Malaysia greatly desires to win at all costs, wouldn’t it be the wackiest and do-able idea to fill the entire Putra stadium with young school kids only?  Because I am sure the players would play their hearts out for them having seen what I have seen.  All the adults and critics can stay home and watch it on TV instead this time.  (Malaysia, don’t say Badzine didn’t tell you.)

There is an innocent uncomplicated connexion between idols and young ones where the former remember being that age and the latter want to be just like their heros.

That’s worth one’s time, that is playing or cheering with love, connecting as performer and audience and each thriving on the energy it gives.  When we get older it seldom is or feels that simple or pure again.

APPRECIATIVE & CHARISMATIC

Both second singles representatives, China’s Wang Xin in the women’s and Denmark’s Jan Jorgensen in men’s have a lot more in common than you might realise.

Both of them play and carry themselves with a distinct appreciation for being present in the moment and making the most of the opportunity they have been given to play at the TUC.

Wang Xin is ever chin up.  The impression you get watching her compete live is that she plays like she takes nothing in her life and career for granted.  There is a high degree of earnestness transparent in the energy she uses to execute her shots.

If Wang Xin is the female walking definition of playing with the idea of wanting to be the best she can be, then Jan Jorgensen is the male equivalent.  Jorgensen (photo) possesses a boyish energy as well as deportment on court.  He plays and walks exactly like his age with no rush to grow up quicker.

Don’t we hope that as these two add layers of experience as players that they never lose this part of themselves for this is what they call charisma!  How many players can you point out who have this scout badge sewn onto their sleeves?  Real champions need not take note.

SO… SOMETIMES

Sometimes what it looks like is exactly what it is:  A kid’s affection and the receiver being moved by it; and showing appreciation through action is charismatic.