Mentoring the Elite: Marcel Chan’s Pro Coaching Philosophy

Elite coaching is more than teaching skills it’s mentorship at the highest level. Marcel Chan explains how he works with the pros through research and analysing their game, helping them balance skill, strategy, and mindset to excel consistently at world-class tournaments.

Customizing Training for the Pros

Marcel starts by understanding the athlete’s natural strengths and gaps. With pros, he designs highly customized drills targeting specific weaknesses, whether it’s a backhand slice, transition speed, or net coverage. These drills are iterative, evolving with the player’s progression. Marcel recalls facing Ben Johns, Federico, Tyson McGuffin, and Connor Garnett in first-round matches after qualifying experiences that shaped both his competitive mindset and his coaching philosophy.

Integrating Tactical & Mental Training

At the professional level, knowing where and when to hit a shot is as important as executing it. Marcel combines tactical drills with mental exercises to simulate real match pressures, helping pros anticipate opponents’ moves and stay composed under high-stakes conditions.

Holistic Player Development

Marcel’s approach includes off-court mentorship. He emphasizes recovery, nutrition, and lifestyle management, all crucial for sustaining peak performance over a long season. For players like Ben Johns, this holistic coaching ensures consistency and longevity in their careers.

Building Facolos’ Player Pathways

Since moving to Vietnam, Marcel has been working closely with pros like Yu Fei, stepping into a role that extends beyond traditional coaching. His focus is on developing Facolos’ player base and guiding athletes along individualized growth paths. By combining technical refinement with strategic mentorship, Marcel helps players identify strengths, improve weaknesses, and plan long-term careers. This approach ensures athletes are not just performing in the moment but building a foundation for sustained success. For Facolos, Marcel’s guidance strengthens their roster, creating a supportive ecosystem where players can thrive both on and off the court.

Continuous Performance Feedback

Marcel maintains an ongoing feedback loop, providing detailed, actionable insights after every practice and tournament. Pros benefit from instant corrections, video analysis breakdowns, and strategic planning for upcoming matches.

Practical Takeaways

1. Tailor drills to each elite player’s unique needs.
2. Combine tactical, mental, and physical coaching.
3. Address off-court habits for sustained peak performance.
4. Use continuous feedback to optimize growth and readiness.

Conclusion

Marcel Chan’s elite coaching approach transforms great players into championship contenders. By combining technical precision, tactical insight, and holistic mentorship, he ensures that pros like Ben Johns maintain their edge on the world stage.

This article is an excerpt from our interview with Marcel Chan. Watch the full video here.
Photos via Instagram.