Gennext Shines in the Middle East

Its been quite a while since yours truly pitched in with his words but TBK cannot really be faulted for the work that has been happening all around us at Gennext. Workaholic it has been the last few months and so I decided that this one Sunday will be the one to express my thoughts with all the hectic happenings all around us. For starters TBK is now officially a part of the Gennext Team. Personally its a great honor bestowed on me, to shoulder a great responsibility alongside one of the greatest Legends of the Game, our dearest mentor Ravichandran Ashwin.

I still recall one of the evenings a few months back, we were all gathered at RKM grounds in T. Nagar. It was one of the happy, fun evenings which is normally the case with my boss around, actually I am entitled to call him that officially now and it does feel great. So back to that evening, all happy faces around. All of a sudden, my mentors face turned grim and serious. At that point of time, I was still the happy go lucky fan boy and not a full time employee. Ashwin turned to Sudarshan and both of them had an animated discussion. I was like - Hope Things were fine.

It turned out that we had to vacate RKM ground in a months time and we had no place to go. It was almost as though the ground under us was pulled away and we were hurtling headlong into a dark abyss. Where do we go from here? What do we do? One single Center and One School was all that we had at that point of time. However this is where the leaders vision comes through. Ashwin was perturbed for a few minutes but he recovered from that initial shock almost immediately. He announced quite nonchalantly "Guys we are expanding. We are no longer going to be dependent on one single center." A magic few words were all that was needed to turn this entire organization around towards unheralded growth.

We moved to Loyola....KRM a school in Perambur fell in place. Pon Vidyashram our existing center in Valsaravalkam started to show exciting growth. APL in OMR, Chennai one of the upmarket schools decided to join hands with us.An announcement to follow shortly in this regard. At the time of penning down this blog we are in advanced talks of closing the deal with one of the leading schools in Chennai as our next center. While we seem to have more than discovered our mojo at our home base in Chennai we also have expanded our footprint beyond our shores into Foreign Land. We have now tied up with Desert Cubs in Dubai. Gennext Desert Cubs will cater to the requirements of Cricket Coaching in the Middle East. Our Team consisting of Ashwin, our COO-Sudarshan, our coaches Santosh and Srinivasan were there in Dubai last week to kick start our operations there.

The Visit to Dubai was a roaring success and Teams on either side are gung-ho about the relationship with a lot of interesting plans for the future. I would be failing in my duty at this point of time if I do not thank Mr Ramesh ,Mr Balaji and Mr Vinay who were the key architects of this exciting relationship. As I spoke with Ashwin yesterday he was pretty excited with all that transpired in Dubai. His words still ring in my ears"TBK, this tour to Dubai was a grand success and we are really crossing boundaries"

So much has transpired in the last few months and many more good tidings to come in the future. All that has happened has happened for the good including our move from RKM to Loyola. The biggest learning for all of us being that we were in a closed shell as long as we were at RKM, but the moment we decided to open up our vision, the world has become our stage, endless, seamless growth options. All this growth that we have experienced in the last few months has been entirely due to all our staff at Gennext. For me personally this has been an exciting new journey which I pray to continue for many more years to come.

Straight Drive with our Young and Fascinating Interns

The success of any organization, especially a coaching institute is attributed to its robust and efficient back-end operational processes, a seamless training procedure, a very flexible and hands on management and most importantly a aggressive front end team. Exactly what we possess at Gen-Next and it is this young and aggressive street smart team of Front ending Team of Prasanth, Sekar and Sriram who we are featuring in our Straight Drive column today. They are our mouthpieces, who represent us in front of the outside world. This is the very team who bring in the children, letting the parents know about Gen-next, how we are different and how the children stand to benefit if they were to join Gen-next. Each of the above gentlemen are unique in their own ways and one thing that all of them have in common is their love for Ashwin and for the game of Cricket. This is what has brought them to Gen-Next. 

Meet Sriram, our intern and a man of few words, but when he talks, he makes full and complete sense.

Sriram is based out of Germany and he is here for a research study at IIT campus. Sriram has done his MS in Communications and multimedia

On His Innings at Gen-Next
Like all of us Sriram is an avid Cricket follower. Sriram came to Gen-next with a view to have a learning experience of how a Cricket Academy functions, how a star is made. He adds by saying that he wanted to know at the rudimentary level how to coach ten year olds. Sriram feels that while at other institutes there is an over emphasis on batting skills here at Gen-next it is all about the all round development of a cricketer. There have many other aspects of a professional set up that Sriram has picked up, finer nuances like Client Relationship Management. 

On His Thoughts about Ashwin:
Now this is the effect Ashwin leaves on you the moment you meet him, For Sriram, Ashwin comes across as a Next door guy, very simple down to earth and extremely approachable. Sriram rates the Bangalore match against the Aussies, the very best he has watched so far.

Up next we have Shekar: 

On His involvment with Gen-next

Shekar is an Engineering MBA graduate, and very much interested in sports management, He is involved in getting enrolments, and assisting the students to enrol for a chosen program.Currently Shekar is helping to get cricket academies in Chennai to participate in a Invitational under 14 tournament to be held from April 30th to May 28th. Shekar has played cricket for a brief period for Infosys in corporate tournaments. Shekar is a right arm off spin bowler. Times and Personal habits have changed post his involvement with Gen-next. For instance Shekar loves his sleep but post joining as an intern with Gen-next, he loves getting up early and rushing to the ground. That is exactly what a game of cricket does to you.

Tango with Ashwin:

It was in 2008 he heard about Ashwin first, and then met him first time in 2010 CSK jersey unveiling. He says that Ashwin comes across as being very candid and straight. Shekar added that Ashwin is very clear about his future plans, that of transforming Gen-next into a World Class Institute.  

Not many know that Shekar is a very good Stand-Up comedian.

Move on to the Young and Dashing Prasanth:

The first thing that hits you when you meet Prasanth is his lovely charming smile. Prasanth is a MBA graduate from ICFAI Bangalore. Prasanth has played League Cricket at the corporate level and is a left arm tearaway fast bowler.

Nostalgic Moments with Ashwin: 

Prasanth first met Ashwin at his house , through his cousin Rama who is a coach at Gen-next. Prasanth recalls that both Ashwin and Rama would play gully cricket together in the by-lanes of West Mambalam. Being a die hard fan Prasanth wanted to have a selfie moment with Ashwin. Wish fulfilled, Prasanth met Ashwin again after five long years, only to be fondly remembered by Ashwin. This is indeed very typical Ashwin style.

On His Role at Gen-next and his future plans:

At Gen-next Prasanth helps in enrolling the students and inducting them into the institute. He wants to contribute back to the game of cricket, a game he loves so much through his association with Gen-next. Marketing is his speciality and sports management his passion.

If you are interested in meeting up with any of these friendly blokes, just walk into the RKM Grounds in T.Nagar and ask for them. 

By the way summer slam is just a week away. Starts on April 10th. Rush before registration closes. A Lot of planning has been put into conducting this camp and interesting activities will make children love the game even more. 

Adieu from Gen-next till the next blog. Have a great week ahead

Straight Drive with Ramesh

Saare jahaan se achha hindostaan hamaraa

Hum bul bulain hai is kee, ye gulsitan hamaraa

Better than all the world, is our India

We are its nightingales and this is our garden

Yes we are proud to be Indians, We love our motherland and are extremely passionate about our country, wherever we are. We are indeed India's Nightingales and we chirp a melodious note, wherever we belong. At Gen-next we believe that Cricket is truly a global sport and encourage young cricketers from all across the globe to take up the sport. In the next few months you will see us morphing into an international institute with robust exchange programmes in place, that will cater to international audiences.

We began our blog this day in a very patriotic manner, in fact these lines tug the heart of every Indian residing in India and abroad. In this blog we are proud to feature Mr Ramesh who sent his son to be coached and mentored at Gen-next. It was indeed our pleasure chatting up with him in this edition of Straight Drive. Ramesh comes across as a very passionate Indian, like all of us, a doting parent who his eager to see his son realize his dreams, never for a moment losing out on those fun moments which is what we are about. Its now over to Mr. Ramesh and our friendly correspondent. 

A small introduction about yourself and your family

We are family of four. I work for a Swiss based Insurance company based out of Dubai as Head of Technology.My wife Anu has just re-initiated her career and works with an UK based operations firmWe have twins, Sanjay and Sruthi. They are studying in Grade X in Kings Al Barsha.  Sanjay and Sruthi are on a scholarship. Sanjay is on a cricket scholarship and plays for his school and other teams.

Every Indian is crazy about cricket. Where and how did your association with the game begin?

As rightly said, cricket runs in our blood and passion on the sport is beyond borders.My association with the game started at a very early age, when I used to watch lot of cricket from my childhood days.  I grew up watching the legendary players like Kapil Dev, Gavaskar, Sir Viv Richards, David Gower, Allan Border, Imran Khan, Clive Lloyd, Kris Srikkanth and the list goes on.I also grew up playing cricket in my school for in house and external tournaments which was one of the key motivating factors for the interest in the game. Being a natural left hander and especially during early days there were not much of left handers, it was always exciting to go out and play in the middle.

Gen-Next in Chennai and you are based in Dubai.  How did this happen? Meaning your son trained here so what made you to choose Gen-Next

My association with Gen Next can be termed in different ways.  Either you can term scientifically that likeminded people get connected irrespective of which geography they are based or good things are destined to happen from an optimistic point of view.It was also for the affinity which was there for Ashwin which was one of the key reasons. I cannot forget to thank Mr. Sudarshan, COO of GenNext for igniting the spark in establishing this wonderful relationship and ensuring its continued success.Gen Next was an obvious choice for a variety of reasons.  The key principles of Gen Next surrounding keeping it simple and constantly innovating on the training methods along with Brand Ashwin made it truly extraordinary.  The coaching staffs are a delight to work with and it’s a true combination of concrete / solid expertise with humility.  Obviously, spending every minute with Ash is a true gift for the boys. I was impressed with Gen Next for a variety of reasons and some of them are:

• Varied innovative techniques 
• Friendly and adaptability to all age groups
• Ashwin’s mentorship

Can you tell us a little about your son and his interest in cricket. At what level is he right now as far as the game of cricket is concerned?  Does he represent any team?

Sanjay is studying in Year X in Kings, Al Barsha based in Dubai. He is an all-rounder and plays for Kings and other teams. During his recent stint at Gen Next, Sanjay went through a transformation from a pace bowler to off spinner. The transition was made so seamless by his coach Srinivasan Sir and with ease, at the same time getting the best out of him.

We are keen to understand how coaching at Gen-Next has influenced you as a parent and your son as a cricketer. Can you share some wow moments at Gen-Next?

For me, cricket is my all-time passion.  The kind of individual focus and attention with a sense of discipline and commitment sums up the credibility of Gen Next. Each and every coaching and support staff are extremely knowledgeable and handle students across all age groups so effectively.The balance is also well struck in making the students sweat it out to gain something extraordinary and take them through that journey.As a parent, every penny invested in Gen Next has its own worth and quality to the core. Sanjay has evolved a lot after his exposure to Gen Next.  This has been across different aspects like the overall aspects of the game, physical fitness, regulated diet and getting exposed to match situations.To be honest, I was bit pessimistic when Sanjay wanted to become an off spinner as he was bowling good pace and getting his line right.When I watched him play a few matches in Gen Next, he was bowling off spin and that was a treat to my eyes.  I don’t have enough words to thank Sudarshan, Srinivasan Sir, Raman and entire staff at Gen Next.Whenever I happen to be in Chennai, I make it a point to go and spend some time there talking to Sudarshan and others.  It always gives me a warmth feeling talking to them and delight to see the kids getting coached in innovative ways.

Have you met Ashwin. If so when and what was it like meeting him for the first time?

Yes, I have met Ashwin.  I have come across Ashwin as a vibrant, shrewd and observing personality.  He is a down to earth and lively individual and extremely knowledgeable to talk. I have come across Ash as a person who speaks his mind and heart.

Can you relate some interesting anecdote involving you and Ashwin or your son and Ashwin

When Ash was conducting the cricket clinic in Dubai, was watching him closely.  To my surprise I was amazed how he remember the name of each and every kid and gave recommendations and suggested improvisations.  I used to sneak in between the sessions with a cup of black coffee and wanted to ensure he gets to drink something. Though some of the support staff and drivers did offer to carry the coffee, I made it a point to give it myself to Ash and that’s where the affinity came to the fore.What I did notice was the kind of regard and respect he shows to fellow humans floored me and truly this is the root of extraordinarily good culture.There was another instance where Ash and I were discussing about something, he mentioned if I request for something that should have been done yesterday. This just reminded me of how demanding I could be in my work life and how my peers / team would have felt.  This is just on the lighter side though.

Champions trophy only a few months away in fact just about two months away. Any guesses who will take the trophy home and why? Will South Africa shed their chokers tag finally. Can India reign supreme once again.

Obviously, beyond any doubt any Indian would want India to win Champions trophy.Whilst, I would fancy on India, there could be stiff competition from England, Australia and South Africa.  I also feel Bangladesh could be the underdogs.As far as South Africa is concerned, they are world class team and no doubt sometime you need luck and timing on your side to sneak through.  Could be a lucky year for South Africa!!!Beyond any doubt, India will reign supreme!!!

Cricket scenario in Dubai? And the coaching infrastructure there?

Cricket lovers are abundant in Dubai.  Dubai is truly multi-cultural and one of the vibrant places in the world. There are considerable number of cricket academies in Dubai and most of the schools have their own cricket teams. As far as coaching infrastructure is concerned, it has a combination of indoors and outdoors.  In summer, the coaching is more of indoors and other seasons, the weather conditions are favorable for outdoor sessions.There is a bit of dearth for Level 3 coaches and it’s a growing domain.

Your advice to both the parents and their budding young ambitious cricketers.

I always believe in “hanging in there” whatever the personal and professional situation could be. I also believe in keep hitting it hard until you get the desired results.I am not sure if I have the age and experience to advice, but certainly can recommend.My recommendation to parents is to understand your kids and current generation and exhibit patience and commitment, leading by example.  Support to your children by all means is the highlight who are the budding cricketers of the future.Ambitious cricketers are identified by virtue of their display of mental fitness / stability, continued hard work, receptive to failures and reacting positively and lastly setting bigger goals in order to scale greater heights.