The Ripple Effect: Coach Raymond’s journey of challenges, and lasting influence

With smiles for the camera, Raymond (left) and fellow Sarawak Swimming team coach, Dieung Manggang, enjoy a moment of camaraderie by the pools.

By Marlynda Meraw

KUCHING, Sept 27: In the ever-peaceful Kuching’s landscape, Raymond Chang’s path in the world of swimming began with a simple yet profound truth: passion is often found in the most unexpected places.

Born in 1985 and nurtured in the heart of Kuching, Raymond’s path began not with a grandiose splash, but with the calm perseverance of a young boy growing up in a close-knit community.

His formative years were shaped in the classrooms of Chung Hua School No. 5 and SMK Bandar Kuching No. 1, leading him to the University Malaysia Sabah (UMS). There, amid the academic rigour, he discovered his true calling in sports science, majoring in Sports Management and minoring in Sports Coaching.

Pool to heart, the coach’s inspiration

Raymond’s foray into coaching was not a predetermined path, but rather an evolving journey spurred by passion and persistence. His early days as a swimmer were marked by average performances and a penchant for mischief—hiding behind walls to avoid drills.

Yet, these initial struggles foreshadowed his future. Under the stern guidance of a coach from China and later, Dato Sri Charles Voon, Raymond began to understand the art of teaching. The transition from swimmer to coach was catalysed by his mentor, Coach Michael Chung, whose lessons extended beyond swimming techniques to encompass leadership and empathy.

The transformative experience became the cornerstone of Raymond’s coaching philosophy: “Coaching Swimming, Teaching Life”.

By the pools at the Pandelela Rinong Aquatics Centre, Raymond (centre) poses with Sarawak Swimming Team.

Shaping athletes beyond the pools

The essence of Raymond’s coaching is deeply rooted in his personal beliefs—striving to remain outside one’s comfort zone, continuously pushing boundaries, and fostering self-improvement. These principles are mirrored in his training approach, where he emphasises character-building alongside athletic prowess.

For Raymond, training sessions are more than physical exertion; they are a crucible for forging resilience, discipline, and integrity. He encourages his swimmers to set their own goals, striving not just for victory but for personal growth and life lessons.

Crossroads of career and family

The year 2017 marked a poignant chapter in Raymond’s career. An offer from the National Sports Council of Malaysia (MSN) Sarawak, presented by the Director, Dr Ong Kong Swee came in while Raymond was deeply embedded in his role at The American Club in Singapore, a position he had held since 2010.

The decision to return to Kuching, though emotionally charged, was driven by a mix of familial duty and professional aspiration.

Leaving behind his beloved swimmers and the comforts of Singapore was a sacrifice, but Raymond’s commitment to his roots and his family’s future guided his choice. The move was not without its challenges, but it signified a return to his origins and a renewed mission to elevate Sarawak’s swimming landscape.

The joy of achievement

Among the many milestones in his coaching career, one moment stands out like a beacon of joy. It was the day Job Tan Xi Jay, a Sarawakian swimmer who had once turned down a spot on the national team due to family commitments, clinched a bronze medal at the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games back in 2022 held in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Theirs was a journey marked by perseverance, a shared dream nurtured through countless hours of hard work. Job had only aimed for a personal best, but he achieved far beyond that—a medal that symbolised his collective effort and relentless spirit.

At that moment, as the medal shone around Job’s neck, Raymond felt a wave of emotions. Tears of joy welled up as he realised that this achievement was not merely evidence of athletic prowess, but a reflection of the heart and soul he had poured into his coaching.

It serves as a reminder that the most cherished rewards extend beyond the glitter of medals and accolades. The true essence of Raymond’s coaching lies in the lasting impact he makes on his athletes’ lives.

The heartfelt gratitude expressed by parents and the sight of former athletes flourishing in their own lives highlights the deep connection Raymond forges between coaching and life’s broader teachings. These moments of recognition and success reaffirm his belief in the profound bond between mentoring and personal growth, a testament to the enduring influence of his coaching journey.

Raymond poses confidently by the pools at the Pandelela Rinong Aquatics Centre during the Malaysian Games (Sukma) XXI Sarawak 2024.

Navigating self-doubts

In the quiet moments between training sessions, Raymond grapples with self-doubt, a constant companion in his coaching career. He questions his methods and wonders if he could do better, a reflection of his dedication to continuous improvement.

Despite these uncertainties shadowing his thoughts, Raymond remains committed to learning and growing, seeking new resources and insights to refine his craft.

Coaching transcends professional duty; it is a path that intertwines with his personal values and experiences.

The lessons learned in the pool extend to everyday interactions, teaching him the importance of listening, empathy and perseverance.

As Raymond mentors his athletes, he embodies the wisdom of guiding them through both triumphs and trials, always encouraging them to find joy and purpose in their endeavours. — DayakDaily