Unprecedented Teamwork Ensures Athlete Support for Paris Olympics

Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha highlighted the significant collaboration between the IOA, sports ministry, and national federations in preparing athletes for the Paris Olympics. Despite challenges and some criticism, a substantial increase in support staff has been accomplished to meet athletes' needs, ensuring better preparation and training conditions.

Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha on Wednesday emphasized the 'unprecedented teamwork' between the sports ministry, IOA, and national federations, ensuring Paris-bound athletes received their preferred support staff. She criticized detractors for ignoring this synergy.

The Sports Ministry has approved 117 athletes and 140 support staff for the Paris Olympics, beginning July 26. This marks a nearly three-fold increase in support staff, including personal coaches, mental trainers, and physiotherapists, as well as a 13-member Sports Science team led by Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala.

Usha highlighted the shift to a better than 1:1 ratio between athletes and support staff. Despite meeting athlete demands, Usha expressed disappointment at some negative reports. She assured swift resolution of visa issues for Antim Panghal's support team and faulted the disbanded ad-hoc committee for earlier confusion.

(With inputs from agencies.)