Shillong, June 8: “We’ve identified a number of athletes who’ve got talent, and what we’re trying to do is get them conditioned so that they can perform at a very high level,” said Former Australian heptathlete and Olympic gold medallist Glynis Nunn while speaking about Meghalaya’s promising young athletes during a talent identification and coaching programme in the state.
Nunn, who has been mentoring young athletes from across Meghalaya identified under the talent identification programme, with the aim of nurturing them into future medal-winning athletes for both the state and the country, praised the dedication, discipline and respectful attitude displayed by the participants. She said the state possesses immense sporting potential and that proper training, guidance, and conditioning could help many athletes compete at higher levels.
The Olympic champion noted that while several athletes come from remote village backgrounds, they are gradually adapting to structured training environments and learning the discipline required in professional sports.
“They are very respectful and dedicated when they know what they are supposed to do,” Nunn said, adding that educating both coaches and athletes remains an important part of the development process.
She also highlighted nutrition as one of the key areas needing improvement, stating that athletes must learn proper eating habits and lifestyle management alongside training. According to her, these adjustments are essential for competing at national and international standards.
Praising the efforts of the Meghalaya government, Nunn said the authorities have been supportive of sports development initiatives and athlete training programmes in the state.
Speaking about mental health and pressure in sports, the Olympic medallist said athletes today face challenges similar to those experienced during her own competitive career. She stressed the importance of understanding how to manage pressure positively and use mental strength effectively.
Relating to her own journey, Nunn recalled how she too came from a small town before eventually competing on the world stage. “It’s very similar for these athletes. They’ve come from villages and now have to adapt to a different training environment,” she said.
Reflecting on her career, Nunn described competing at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles as one of the most memorable experiences of her life, where she won the gold medal thereby becoming the first-ever Olympic champion in the women’s heptathlon, adding that she hopes to share those experiences and hardships through her mentorship journey.
Nunn is one of the international experts that Meghalaya is roped in to train the young athletes in hopes that with continued support and expert mentorship, the State would produce future champions on the national and international stage.
