Aminul calls for medal mindset

Bangladesh must shift its focus from mere participation to winning medals at international sports events, State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque said on Sunday.

Speaking at a meeting with newly appointed presidents and general secretaries of around 20 sports federations at the National Sports Council, Aminul pledged government backing and long-term planning to develop athletes.

Federation officials raised acute training space shortages during the discussion. Wushu Federation general secretary Dildar Hasan Dilu said athletes lack regular practice grounds. In contrast, Cycling Federation general secretary Parvez Hasan noted cyclists are forced to train on the 300 Feet highway or rely on military and Ansar facilities.

In response, Aminul promised to make all potential training venues available, including a site in Kamalapur. He also stated that only qualified coaches will travel in coaching roles on foreign tours, barring officials from taking those spots.

"In the past, the main goal was just to take part in international competitions. We must change that mindset and target medals," Haque said. "For this, priority will be given to long-term training and proper preparation."

Aminul added that the ministry is ready to help federations hire foreign coaches and urged early preparations for major events, including the South Asian Games.