MANILA, Philippines — Legendary Korean archery coach Ryu Su-jeng will lead the Philippine national archery program, aiming to prepare athletes for the Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok and future Olympic competitions, Philippine Sports Commission officials said Tuesday.
Ryu, who has coached Korean archers to Olympic gold medals, accepted the role after turning down offers from Mexico and China. She spoke at the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum, where she expressed admiration for the Filipino athletes’ patience and adaptability.
World Archery Philippines President Bing Reaport said Ryu has begun implementing her personalized training system, adjusting techniques based on athletes’ height and build, while fostering close relationships with the team.
Ryu has guided star archers such as An San, winner of three golds at the Tokyo Olympics, and Jang Hye-jin, whom she led from obscurity to two gold medals at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
The national squad aims to reach the podium at the SEA Games, qualify athletes for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, and develop a youth team for the 2032 Brisbane Games. Officials said they are finalizing a two-year contract with Ryu, who continues to train and bond with Filipino archers while formal agreements are prepared.
