AN athlete’s public image could just be as important as staying fit and healthy. “Media relations could reinforce the hard work athletes put in behind the scenes,” said Gold’s Gym personal trainer Jerry Diaz.
Kanoa Football Club’s Jim Maniago battles for the possession against a Matansa defender during a Youth League Fall 2019-U15 boys division game at the NMI Soccer Training Center in Koblerville.
Photo by James F. Sablan Jr.
Through social media posts, for example, local athletes could be scouted by off-island professionals.
“This is how MMA fighter Kelvin Fitial was chosen to go to the Jon Jones Training Camp and how paddler Maverick Itibus was picked to compete in Singapore,” Diaz said.
The goal is to promote stories that represent an athlete’s reputation in a positive light, he added.
“As a CNMI national basketball player 20 years ago, I learned early from our coach, Rufino Aguon, that it is important for an athlete to have an admirable attitude and character,” Diaz said.
This can help create an aura of professionalism that will encourage sponsors to support teams and athletes, he added.
“As a professional athlete and CNMI national team coach, I must ensure that I portray and practice the attitude and mindset that I preach. I must win and earn the respect of other trainers, coaches, athletes, the local media and business sponsors.”
Diaz said when training professional athletes such as Fitial, Itibus or the NMI Football Association players, he also focuses on their mindset which includes character-building.
“I remind these athletes to show their best attitude and character. I remind them that it starts from within,” Diaz said.
