National Coach Samaresh Jung Calls for Career Pathways for Athletes Beyond Medals
National pistol coach Samaresh Jung has issued a compelling call for India to establish assured career pathways for athletes, arguing that national medals alone are insufficient to secure their future. Speaking in Indore on Tuesday, Jung stressed that without job security and academic grounding, even accomplished sportspersons face significant uncertainty once their competitive careers end.
Addressing the Uncertainty of Sporting Careers
Jung, who is currently in Indore to compete in the 25 metre pistol events at the 19th All India Police Shooting Championship at the BSF Reoti Ranges, highlighted the inherent challenges of athletic professions. Sporting careers are uncertain and relatively short, with many athletes peaking in their 20s and retiring by their early 30s. He pointed out that without graduation or alternative qualifications, these individuals often struggle to secure employment after retirement.
"We must ensure education continues alongside sport. Assured jobs and clear pathways reduce anxiety and allow athletes to perform freely," Jung emphasized. As a deputy commandant with the Central Industrial Security Force, he continues to compete while also guiding top Indian shooters like Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh at the Olympic level, underscoring his dual perspective on athlete development.
Beyond Talent Identification: Sustaining Potential
The coach noted that talent identification alone is not enough. India boasts a vast base of potential athletes across smaller towns and districts, but this potential must be nurtured systematically. Jung praised the Madhya Pradesh Shooting Academy's model of conducting demonstration camps in interior areas and tracking selected talent as a step in the right direction.
"If we do not support and sustain talent after identifying it, the effort loses meaning," he cautioned. This approach, he argued, is crucial for building a robust sporting ecosystem that supports athletes throughout their lives.
Advice on Early Specialization and Parental Pressure
Jung also addressed the trend of pushing children into specialized sports at a very young age, advising parents against intense training too early. For shooting, he recommended that serious training can begin around age 12, after children have explored multiple sports and developed physically and mentally.
"Sport should be enjoyed first. Early pressure can be counterproductive," he said, highlighting the importance of a balanced approach to youth sports development.
Jung's Illustrious Career and Legacy
An air pistol specialist, Samaresh Jung enjoyed a remarkable run at the Commonwealth Games during his peak. His achievements include:
- At the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester, winning two gold medals in the men's free pistol pairs and the 25 metre standard pistol pairs events, partnering with Jaspal Rana.
- Dominating the 2006 and 2010 Commonwealth Games, amassing seven gold, five silver, and two bronze medals across the two editions.
Such was his consistency that he earned the nickname "Goldfinger" during his prime years. In recognition of his contributions to Indian shooting, Jung was honoured with the Arjuna Award in 2002.
Jung's insights underscore the urgent need for systemic changes in Indian sports to ensure that athletes' futures are secure, blending competitive success with long-term career stability.
