 Olympic Coach- What is your coaching philosophy?
Coach Lee: For an athlete to be successful not only must they be technically strong, but they must be mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually healthy. We can liken the athlete to a racing car with four tires, representing the Technical, Mental, Physical, and Equipment aspects that make up the archer. These four wheels must be balanced to achieve a smooth ride, but what drives it all is the engine under the bonnet which is the archer's mental, emotional and spiritual health and development. They must develop an inner peace to be totally successful.
Having said this, it is so crucial that the coach and Sport Science and Sport Medicine staff work together. Also, parents must actively support their child’s drive for success in their sport.
Olympic Coach- Prior to coming to the US, you were the National Coach for Korea and then Australia, what do you see as differences between athletes in each of the three countries?
Coach Lee: Yes, I see big differences, especially cultural. I have a very hard time with this. It was easier when I coached in Korea because at that time Korean students always held their elders in unconditional respect, especially coaches and teachers. However, when I became a Christian I overcame these differences. I love my archers and am always thankful for their hard work. I am happy with them and they always give back to me more than enough in their hard work and achievements.
Olympic Coach- What are three key ingredients that an athlete must have to be able to improve?
Coach Lee: Love for their sports, passion and perseverance, especially in archery.
Olympic Coach- You have been teaching a new style of shooting to athletes that have a previously established pattern. How do you approach the re-learning of technique?
Coach Lee: Yes, Simon Fairweather (Gold, 2000) in AUS is a good example. He was a world champion but I had to refine him for the Olympics. It was kind of battle until he got to the Olympics. Refinement is always hard, but I am trying to explain the reasons why we need it done, as much as I can in Biomechanical reasons. As long as the athletes understand my reasons for wanting them to change, they will do it.
Olympic Coach- What is one piece of advice that you would give to a beginning coach?
Coach Lee: Love your athlete all the time with care and sincerity.
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