Nguyen Thi Tam received a painting made by students after discussing her return to boxing at IVS High School. Bao Van Hoa's October 17 report describes an exchange focused on setbacks, recovery and persistence.
Her Asian Games silver provided background to the visit. Tam earned that medal on October 2 in the women's 51kg division after facing Wu Yu in the final; the school exchange was a later event.
Recalling a difficult recovery
Tam described the three years after a ligament injury at the 32nd SEA Games as a difficult period. She had feared that she might not compete again, but support from coaches and medical staff helped her continue.
She also spoke about losing her father before the Asian Games. Her promise to return strongly became a personal source of motivation.
Tam began athletics at thirteen before switching to boxing at sixteen. Recalling those stages helped explain the longer journey behind her international achievements.
An existing school connection
The boxer had previously taught pupils introductory boxing at IVS, where they affectionately call her their teacher. She praised the school's emphasis on discipline alongside academic, language, artistic and sporting activities.
Students described gaining confidence and determination from her account. One pupil, Pham Khanh Linh, connected that encouragement with her ambition to become a literature teacher.
The painting concluded the exchange as a gesture of appreciation. Possible future involvement with the school was discussed as a prospect, not an announcement that Tam has retired or accepted a new permanent teaching position.