Iie Sumirat, Legenda Bulu Tangkis Indonesia Tutup Usia
Bisnis.com, JAKARTA – Dunia bulu tangkis Indonesia meratapi kepergian salah satu legenda mereka, Iie Sumirat. Mantan pebulu tangkis nasional Taufik Hidayat mengungkapkan perasaan kehilangan atas sosok guru yang telah membimbingnya menuju kesuksesan.
Mengenang Sosok Iie Sumirat
Taufik Hidayat, yang kini menjabat sebagai Wakil Menteri Pemuda dan Olahraga (Wamenpora), merasa kehilangan atas wafatnya Iie Sumirat. Iie Sumirat adalah sosok pelatih yang membentuk karakter dan fondasi kariernya di dunia bulu tangkis.
Sejak awal kariernya sebagai atlet junior di klub Sangkuriang Graha Sarana (SGS) Bandung, Taufik telah mengenal Iie Sumirat. Iie bukan hanya menjadi pelatih bagi Taufik, tetapi juga figur yang menyerupai orang tua bagi atlet itu.
“Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rojiun. Dunia bulu tangkis Indonesia berduka. Salah satu legenda, Iie Sumirat, hari ini berpulang. Saya sebagai salah satu anak didiknya merasa sangat kehilangan dengan kepergian Kang Iie,” ucap Taufik Hidayat dalam pernyataan resminya.
Kehilangan Sosok Penting dalam Karier Bulu Tangkis
Dengan kepergian Iie Sumirat, Indonesia kehilangan sosok penting dalam sejarah bulu tangkis. Iie Sumirat adalah pilar kejayaan bulu tangkis Indonesia pada era 1970-an. Dia dikenal atas kontribusinya dalam mengantar tim Indonesia merebut berbagai gelar bergengsi di level internasional, termasuk Piala Thomas.
Iie Sumirat juga memiliki prestasi gemilang di nomor perorangan, seperti meraih medali perunggu pada Kejuaraan Dunia 1977 dan menjuarai Kejuaraan Invitasi Asia di Bangkok.
Warisan yang Harus Dilestarikan
Setelah pensiun, Iie Sumirat tetap aktif dalam membina atlet-atlet muda di klub SGS Bandung. Dedikasinya yang tak pernah pudar menjadi inspirasi bagi banyak pebulu tangkis generasi berikutnya, termasuk Taufik Hidayat.
Taufik Hidayat mengakui bahwa tanpa bimbingan dan dedikasi dari Iie Sumirat, ia tidak akan mencapai kesuksesan yang diraihnya saat ini. Oleh karena itu, semangat dan torehan prestasi yang telah ditorehkan oleh Kang Iie harus terus diwarisi dan dilestarikan oleh generasi bulu tangkis Indonesia selanjutnya.
“Selamat jalan, Kang Iie. Jasa dan dedikasimu untuk kejayaan bulu tangkis Indonesia akan terus kami kenang,” ujar Taufik Hidayat sebagai bentuk penghormatan terakhirnya untuk salah satu legenda bulu tangkis Indonesia yang telah berpulang.
Legacy of Iie Sumirat
Iie Sumirat’s contribution to Indonesian badminton is unparalleled, with his coaching prowess shaping the careers of numerous athletes, including the legendary Taufik Hidayat. Known for his meticulous approach and dedication to the sport, Iie Sumirat instilled values of hard work, discipline, and determination in his protégés.
His legacy extends beyond the court, as he was not only a coach but also a mentor and a father figure to many young players. His guidance and wisdom were instrumental in shaping the future of Indonesian badminton and nurturing the talents of the next generation of athletes.
Achievements and Influence
Throughout his career, Iie Sumirat achieved remarkable success both as a player and as a coach. His expertise in the sport led Indonesia to numerous victories on the international stage, solidifying the country’s reputation as a badminton powerhouse.
His accomplishments in the 1970s, including leading the Indonesian team to victory in prestigious tournaments such as the Thomas Cup, showcased his strategic brilliance and leadership skills. His dedication to the sport and his ability to inspire and motivate his players set him apart as a true legend in Indonesian badminton history.
Preserving the Legacy
As the badminton community mourns the loss of Iie Sumirat, it is essential to preserve his legacy and carry forward his teachings. His commitment to nurturing young talent and instilling the values of sportsmanship and excellence must be upheld by the future generations of Indonesian badminton players.
By honoring his memory and cherishing his contributions, the Indonesian badminton community can ensure that Iie Sumirat’s impact continues to inspire and guide aspiring athletes for years to come. His legacy serves as a beacon of excellence and a reminder of the dedication and passion required to excel in the sport.
Remembering a Legend
As the Indonesian badminton community reflects on the profound loss of Iie Sumirat, it is evident that his influence will endure through the generations. His mentorship, coaching acumen, and unwavering dedication to the sport have left an indelible mark on the landscape of Indonesian badminton.
His legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those he inspired and mentored, serving as a testament to his enduring impact on the sport he loved. The memory of Iie Sumirat will continue to inspire and motivate future generations of Indonesian badminton players to strive for excellence and uphold the values of sportsmanship and integrity.
