Hampshire Badminton Association Ltd
County Newsletter
September 2006
If you would like a copy of the Newsletter complete with all the photos,
sent to your address four time during the season,
please contact the Editor. See page 2 for details.
The Winchester Team that won the County Inter-District Knockout Cup:
Jo Wilson, Jon Hepworth, Hannah Littlecott, Rowan Taylor, Stephanie Langford and Chris Shepperd
See Page 3 for full Report
The views expressed in this Newsletter are
not necessarily those of the Hampshire
Badminton Association Ltd
DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE
22nd October 2006
Hampshire Badminton 1
Editor’s email address: [email protected]
Once again I welcome all our readers to the new season. I hope you have all been able to take advantage of the
lovely weather that we have experienced this summer and also hope that the excessive heat at times did not
provide an excuse to stop you from keeping fit. For myself, I have been as lazy as ever.
This first edition of the 2006/07 newsletter mainly wraps up the latter stages of last season in the order they took
place and then goes on to give you some information regarding the new season. Dates for matches, tournaments,
courses etc. are as we know them at the time of going to print. We are always happy to print our various
Districts’ events but for that to happen we need you to send in that information to us.
There have been several changes in the close season including Matt Shuker leaving Badminton England and
moving to Slazenger, the appointment of a new Chief Executive, Adrian Christie, and of course the new Rally
Point Scoring System coming in to play. The latter will, no doubt, be a source of discussion for some time to
come. Will we, won’t we change to it? Well of course some decisions have already been made, ICC events,
Tournaments etc. will be played to the new scoring system but some Districts may change, some may not, so I
think there may be quite a bit of confusion this season if members play in more than one league or are county
team or tournament players.
Sadly, we belatedly report the death of Ray Brothers, (page 20), a stalwart of Hampshire badminton for many
years but also report on the wonderful achievements of Lucy Shuker, an ex-Hampshire player, who has now
turned her attentions to the world of tennis. If anyone can help Lucy to achieve her dreams please contact her via
the details given (page 6).
We would also like to welcome Park Row as a new sponsor for the 2nd & 3rd County teams.
We are always looking for articles for the newsletter from our members, so please feel free to send us Club
news, tournaments results, etc. and photos. Just be aware of the deadline dates, which always appear on the front
page.
Hampshire are always looking for volunteers, so if you feel you have time to spare, please contact Hazel Marks
our County Secretary.
JANET PALMER - Editor
WOULD YOU LIKE AN INDIVIDUAL
SUBSCRIPTION TO THE NEWSLETTER FOR
THE 2006-07 SEASON?
Only £7.00 PER SEASON
(Four Editions)
Visit our Website at
www.hampshirebadminton.co.uk
for information and news
Please make cheques payable to Hampshire Badminton
Association Ltd. and send to The Editor
Contact details for the Newsletter:
HOW ABOUT ADVERTISING IN THE NEWSLETTER?
To discuss charges:
Editor: Janet Palmer Tel: 023 8025 3855
Email: [email protected] or
Apply to the Editor at
20 Hazel Close,Chandler’s Ford, Eastleigh.
SO53 5RF
Hazel Marks Tel: 023 8025 3709
Email: [email protected]
Hampshire Badminton Association Ltd is happy to acknowledge the contribution made
by Trevor Darlington of GraphicSolutions in the printing of this Newsletter.
Hampshire Badminton 2
INTER DISTRICT KNOCK-OUT COMPETITION
Held at The Westgate Centre, Sunday 23rd April 2006
This year only four Districts chose to participate in this Competition run by Ruth Cairns, Chairman of the Basingstoke
District Badminton League, those being Basingstoke, Southampton, Winchester and Portsmouth. However the
competition was fierce with some really excellent play by all teams.
In the first round Basingstoke were drawn against Southampton, last year’s runners-up and Portsmouth against
Winchester, last year’s winners. Despite several close sets in the 1st match, the Southampton team, and in particular
the ladies, proved too strong for Basingstoke and ran out the winners by 185 points to 121. As Southampton fielded
several county players this was rather inevitable. The match in the other half of the draw was highly contested with
several county players in both teams. After the Mixed, Winchester led 61-55. The Portsmouth Ladies then took all
three games whilst the Portsmouth Men took all theirs. With the Winchester Men putting up slightly more resistance
their team took the match by 154 points to 138.
In the final, Winchester won 6 games to Southampton’s 3, with the game between Jo Wilson/Stephanie Langford (W)
and Kim Marsh/Jacky Barron (S) being particularly close at 21/20. The final score was 163 -130. This meant that they
retained the trophy won last season. See Front cover for the photo of the victorious Winchester team.
In the plate final, Portsmouth proved too strong for Basingstoke, winning 189-61.
The Portsmouth
team that won the
Plate event:
Kelly Holdway, Mark
Mottershaw, Jamie
Russell, Charmaine
Webb, Martyn
Arnold and Linda
McCallan
Both trophies were presented to the respective winners at the County AGM in June.
TEAM MEMBERS:
Basingstoke: Tim Cooper, Richard Whatley, Peter Seward, Karen Bayman, Rachel Phillips, Amanda Marsden & Lesley
Acheson.
Southampton: Simon Gennery, Andy Penn, James Dick, Susannah Gennery, Kim Marsh & Jacky Barron.
Portsmouth:
Jamie Russell, Martyn Arnold, Mark Mottershaw, Kelly Holdway, Charmaine Webb, Helen Saunders & Linda
McCallan.
Winchester:
Rowan Taylor, Jon Hepworth, Chris Shepperd, Hannah Littlecott, Jo Wilson & Stephanie Langford.
WELL DONE TO WINCHESTER FOR RETAINING THE TROPHY AND THANKS TO RUTH FOR RUNNING THIS COMPETITION
ONCE AGAIN.
This is a Competition which allows players more freedom to choose which District to play for. As long as you play for a Club team which
participates in a particular District then you can play for that District. In reality, some Clubs play in more than one District League so the
choice is yours. It does seem strange though to see players represent different Districts in subsequent seasons. Also, it was evident on the day
that some players were concerned that more District were not represented and felt teams could have been raised if an approach had been
made to a different official. I know Ruth is keen to pursue other avenues this coming season.
EDITOR
Hampshire Badminton 3
Final Inter-County Premier A Weekend 2005/2006 at Milton Keynes 8/9 April 2006
This was a make or break weekend for the County 1 st Team. We were bottom of the table on 18 points with Gloucester and
Lancashire just above with 21 and 20 respectively. We had to play both this weekend, Gloucester were our first opponents on the
Saturday morning, then Avon and finally Lancashire on the Sunday. The team was thankful for, if not frightened by the presence
and support of our vociferous Chairman, her husband and Jill Robertson. The latter two quieter than the former.
For the second weekend of this season we were without Matthew Shuker who was on the injured list so Steve Smith was our No.1
singles player. He faced Ben Witham in the first match on court. Off to a good start, Steve won the first game 15/9, was
unfortunate to lose the second 15/11 but rallied well to take the third 15/10 to give a 1/0 lead. Mark Ashton, our No 2, was back
with us having missed the previous weekend. He played Chris Hotchen to win the first game 15/10 and then the second after quite
a struggle 17/14. A good start. Jo Dix played the experienced Rebecca Pantaney losing 11/6,11/4 but Hannah Littlecott extended
our lead with a fine 11/2,11/2 victory over Michelle Davis.
Having lost the first game 15/13 to Tom Stroud/Ben Witham Chris Evans and Trevor Darlington settled down to take the next two
games rather easily 15/6,15/3 at 1st Men’s Doubles. Steve Smith and Andrew Penn lost a close three setter against Mike Haywood
and Ivor Griffiths 17/14,14/17,15/12. This was the last win for the opposition in the match as both our Ladies and Mixed pairs
won to complete an 8/2 scoreline. The two Sarahs, Burgess and Hardaker, had quite a struggle before overcoming Rebecca
Pantaney/Jo Sullivan 9/15,15/12,17/14 while Caz Lee/Jenny Hawkyard easily beat Michelle Davis/Kerry Mullen 15/1,15/3.
Chris and Sarah Hardaker accounted for Tom Stroud/Jo Sullivan 15/5,15/7 and Trevor Darlington/Caz Lee beat Mike
Haywood/Rebecca Pantaney 15/4,15/8 to finish the match.
We were now in 8th place in the table with 26 points while Lancashire having lost 8/2 to second placed Warwickshire were
still languishing at the bottom with 22 and Gloucestershire had 23.
Our team for the second match was selected to get the best score possible from a strong Avon side, but our only winners were
Andrew Penn at No.2 singles who beat Richard Williams 5/15,15/4,15/9 and Hannah who beat Phillippa Kirby 11/5,11/4. The
two No.1’s Mark Ashton and Jo lost 15/6,15/2 and 11//2,11/4 to Carl Baxter and Julie Standley respectively. Chris and Andrew
lost in three games 15/10,13/15,15/8 to Ashley Thilthorpe/Carl Baxter while Trevor and Steve went down 15/8,15/7 to Adam
Smith/Matt Hanson. The first ladies Sarah and Sarah had a long three set match before losing 15/11,10/15,15/7 to Mariana
Agathangelou/Heather Olver. Robyn Ashworth/Phillippa Kirby then beat Caz and Jenny 15/9,15/11.
The Mixed didn’t fare any better, Chris and Sarah Hardaker lost 15/11,15/3 to Matt Hanson/Heather Olver but it took three games
before Adam Smith/Mariana Agathangelou overcame Steve and Sarah Burgess1/15,15/9,15/11.
This 8/2 defeat left us still 8th in the table on 28 points, four above Gloucestershire who had lost 9/1 to Warwickshire with
Lancashire beaten 8/2 by Essex still bottom with 24 points.
All we required on the Sunday against Lancashire was at least 3 points and we would be safe as, if we were equal on points on
countback, we had won more matches than they. The team had a late evening meal and retired to bed to be ready for the morning.
The team to play Lancashire was the same as that which faced Gloucestershire except that Jo Dix was not available and so Hannah
was moved to the top Ladies singles spot with Jenny stepping in at No.2. We didn’t get off to a good start as both our men lost.
Steve was beaten 15/6,15/4 by Colin Haughton and Mark, after a tight first game, lost 15/13,15/6 to Harry Wright. Hannah got us
onto the score sheet with a fine 11/7,11/6 victory over Sam Alexander. This gave her a well-deserved 100% record for the
weekend. Jenny had a first game to forget against Connie Leong, when nothing she did went her way, losing 11/0. She fought
back bravely in the second before going down 13/11. Chris and Trevor got our second point with a relatively easy win over Colin
Haughton/Alex Hird 15/4,15/11. Steve and Andrew found Harry Wright and Alan Clarkson too much for them losing 15/8,15/7.
Our Ladies then made certain of our stay in Division A by taking both their doubles. The two Sarahs beat the two Carolines,
Clucas and Walker 15/7 in the first game but had to struggle to take the second 17/14. Caz and Jenny made it four for us with
another relatively easy win, 15/2,15/5 against Sam Alexander/Wendy Higgin. Chris and Sarah Hardaker lost 17/14,15/10 to the
experienced Harry Wright/Caroline Clucas but Trevor and Caz made it a 5/5 draw when they beat Alex Hird/Sam Alexander
15/11,15/4.
A fine result which left Hampshire in eighth place with 33 points and both Lancashire (29) and Gloucestershire (26) to be
relegated and replaced by Glasgow/North Strathclyde and Leicestershire.
Hampshire Badminton 4
The final league table for Premier A was as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Yorkshire
Warwickshire
Hertfordshire
Essex
Avon
Surrey
Worcestershire
Hampshire
Lancashire
Gloucestershire
72 points
63 points
59 points
48 points
48 points
37 points
35 points
33 points
29 points
26 points
This has not been the best of seasons for the team due to injuries to personnel for some of the weekends but all the players are due
credit for their performances during the competition and their attitude over the last weekend especially, which we knew was the
crucial one, was wonderful. Thanks to all who played any part in the competition for us this season and our supporters. Here’s to
the next one!
Trevor Shanks – Team Manager
********************
Winchester & District Badminton Association
Banerjee Memorial Cup Final.
This competition is open to all the clubs in the WDBA league and is played in knockout rounds throughout the
season. Teams are handicapped according to their league standing and play each other either at home or away,
according to the draw, on club night. Nineteen clubs entered the competition for 2005/2006, rather more than
the previous years. Gwyn West, the tournament organiser, had to schedule an extra round to accommodate the
extra entries, which put pressure on the clubs to fit the matches into their already busy schedule. The Final is
traditionally staged at the Lido Sports Centre at the end of April. This year’s finalists were Notorious (-hand6) and Caer Gwent 3 (+1). Despite the helpful handicap and a tremendous effort with some matches going to 3
sets, Caer Gwent 3 were no match for Notorious, who won 9-0.
The winning Notorious team on
the right: Rikke Vernefelt,
Charmaine Webb, Jo Wilson,
Chris Evens, Rowan Taylor,
and Martyn Arnold.
Centre, WDBA President and
your Newsletter Editor Janet
Palmer, who presented the
Cup.
On the left the event runnersup from Caer Gwent: Helen
Davies, Moya Abbott, Rob
Souter, Mark Diffey and
Steve Dyke. Jan McKendrick
completed the team but is not
in the photo.
Hampshire Badminton 5
Lucy Shuker – ex-Hampshire 1st team player
My name is Lucy Shuker; I am a 26 year old paraplegic who
some of you might remember as a junior & senior county
badminton player.
If you are wondering why I stopped playing then read on.
Unfortunately I had a very serious motorbike accident in 2001,
shortly after graduating from university, which left me completely
paralysed from the chest down. I was 21 at the time. After spending
a year in the Spinal Injury Unit in Salisbury, I was discharged
and decided to pick up the pieces of my shattered life by taking up
Wheelchair Tennis. In three years, and with a great deal of
determination, I have become the British No1 singles player and
am ranked No14 in the world for singles and No12 for doubles.
I have been competing in National and International Tournaments,
travelling all over the world and my hard work and dedication
have been rewarded by receiving some prestigious awards. Being
short-listed alongside other athletes such as Dame Tanni Grey
Thompson for the Individual Female Achievement Award and
actually winning it was fantastic. Winning the Singles and Doubles
titles at this year’s National Championships was also wonderful –
and my achievements were acknowledged by being awarded the
National Wheelchair Tennis Association Player of the Year and the
Dan Maskell Players’ Player of the Year. So 2006 has been a very successful year so far.
I’m told that I never fulfilled my potential at badminton but I have learnt my lesson the hard way so I am not going to
repeat this in tennis. It is my ambition to qualify for the Beijing Paralympics in 2008 and then on to London in 2012. It
is going to be hard work & expensive since tennis is even more expensive for disabled players & subsisting on
incapacity benefits does not help.
Lucy in action in her new sport
Hopefully some of you reading this will be
inspired to overcome your difficulties &
attain your full potential in whatever sport
you choose and some of you may feel inspired
to sponsor me for a tournament or two.
Lucy Shuker
1 Melchet Court
Lyndhurst Road
Fleet
Hants
GU51 1EW
Hampshire Badminton 6
B.B.C. RADIO SOLENT TOURNAMENT
Held at Westgate Badminton Centre, Monday 20 th March 2006
For the 4th consecutive year Radio Solent has joined forces with our Association to sponsor and help run a tournament for their
listeners. This is a unique tournament in as much as it is the only one of its kind in the country. The advertising that our sport gains
from this is immense as, not only does it get 6 weeks radio coverage leading up to the event, but also coverage on the day with live
interviews on Radio Solent conducted with some of the players taking part and preceded by an early morning live interview with
our Chairman, Diana Troke, from the studios of Radio Solent. (Quite a nerve racking experience in itself).
Eric Brown, the Acting Chief Executive of Badminton England, was invited to this unique tournament so that he could see first
hand how the partnership worked and he himself was interviewed live on Radio Solent during the morning. We are hoping that
more Counties will try to get their local radio stations similarly involved.
We were able to use the Westgate Centre during term time as this was a Baker day This shows how well the partnership between
the Westgate School and the Association works with Peter Jenner, Westgate’s headmaster, and the Centre working on a reciprocal
basis.
How to make the tournament a success is another matter. What format should we use when such a varied cross section of abilities
were expected to enter? Should we go for our tried and tested format of previous years or change to something new? In the end it
was decided to stay with the format of previous years working on the old saying of “if it’s not broken, don’t mend it”. Therefore
we had three categories, Schools, Recreational and Intermediate players, with varying disciplines, with the various sections
divided into pools with the winners of each going through to a knockout play-off. The schools were divided into Boys’ Doubles
years 7-9, year 10+ and Girls’ Doubles, all playing the best of 3 sets to 15 points with setting for the best part. (Results below.)
Apart from a good format another important factor is ‘People’. They are so crucial to achieve success, i.e. sponsors, organisers &
volunteers, schools, Centre personnel and of course the players themselves. They all need to ‘get on’. There is no room for prima
donnas, co-operation being the key word. It is essential that whilst everybody does their own job, from arriving on time to clearing
up at the end of the tournament, the ability to adapt at a moment’s notice is also paramount. We have a good, and experienced,
tournament committee in Hampshire and this coupled with Radio Solent’s team of Kevin James & Wendy Collins (themselves
becoming “experts” in tournament organisation) once again proved that a successful tournament could be achieved under
somewhat different circumstances.
The Schools sections consist of pairs from various schools within the area and they of course want to do well as they represent
their school. Normally they have to return to their education after they have finished playing so the Tournament usually
commences with their Sections first to allow this. One of the schools participating had a small hic-cup when their mini bus failed
to start but another vehicle was found and although late the players arrived keen to get started. This is where co-operation and
adaptability play their part. The school were prompt in informing the organisers of their misfortune and kept them updated so the
committee were able to adjust their order of play to accommodate them. No problem!
We have high hopes that this tournament will again take place this coming season and discussions are already in progress with
representatives from Radio Solent.
Results: Boys’ Doubles Year 10+
Winners Group A: Adam Richenbach/James Taylor) Rickenbach/Taylor 15/6
Winners Group B: Andy Dent/Alex Huttunen
)
Winners Group C: Liam Bowater/Michael Glock ) Kane/Smith (Priory) 15/9
Winners Group D: David Kane/Matt Smith
)
Winners: Adam Richenbach & James Taylor (Thornden) 15/5 15/0
Boys’ Doubles Years 7-9
Winners Group A: Bye
) Paul Keating/Ed Cox
(Henry Beaufort)
Winners Group B: Richard Yates/Stephen Oldham ) Ward/Newbold 15/0
Winners Group C: Nick Ward/Sam Newbold
)
Winners: Nick Ward/Sam Newbold (Thornden) 15/1 15/10
Girls’ Doubles:
Katie Walters/Lisa Turner (Courtmore) beat Emma Frost/Rachel Richards (Ringwood) 15/5 15/12
Hampshire Badminton 7
James & Adam – Boys Year 10+
with Eric Brown
Sam & Nick – Boys Years 7-9
Katie & Lisa - Girls' Doubles
with Eric
Recreational Men’s Doubles:
Winner Group A: Bye
) Marc Hurst/Neil Marsh
Winner Group B: Peter Taylor/Robert Taylor ) Chris Andrew/Kevin Lobley
Winner Group C: Chris Andrew/Kevin Lobley )
Winners: Chris Andrew/Kevin Lobley 15/1 15/3
Recreational Mixed Doubles:
Rudi Schweinler/Eve Panthaler beat Keith James/Susan Stanley 7/15 15/12 15/7
Intermediate Mixed:
Jason Edmeades/Emma Aldred beat Peter Arnold/Jo Francis 15/8 13/15 17/14
Chris & Kevin with Kevan
Eve & Rudi with Kevan
Kevan with Emma & Jason
RADIO SOLENT STAFF CUP
Sunil Bali/Lucy Warhurst beat
Kevan James & Wendy Collins 15/11
Our picture shows the losing finalists
Kevan & Wendy, who were also the
driving force behind Radio Solent’s
presentation of the event.
This was the first time that I had been able to attend this Tournament so it was interesting for me to see how this was run.
Lunch was provided and each Section was given a specific time to go. This worked well for all involved. The standard of play
was obviously varied but all games were played in a competitive sporting manner and I think all had an enjoyable time.
OUR THANKS GO TO RADIO SOLENT FOR THEIR SPONSORSHIP OF THIS EVENT.
EDIT0R
Hampshire Badminton 8
INTER COUNTIES TOURNAMENT
AT NOTTINGHAM UNIVERSITY 2006
For those of you who are not familiar with this tournament it is the final event in the U16/U17 season. It serves as a benchmark on
how well the older players have developed before they join the adults in the Senior County. We all treat it as a very special event,
which it most definitely is. There were 38 teams competing again this year from as far away as Ireland and Isle of Man.
The team spirit that is generated is strong matched by the noise of the supporters. It is definitely not the quiet traditional
tournament we are accustomed to in English Badminton. Air horns, tubes full of pennies and any object that can make a noise are
used along with some very loud shouting. Shirley and I took a team consisting of Alyssia Broomfield, Sarah Cappleman, Panuga
Riou, Lisa Turner, Katie Walters, Mark Cappleman, Callum Lawson, Mark Newbery, Adam Rickenbach, and Matthew Showan.
We were fortunate that 6 of our players will be able to play next year.
We travelled the evening before to Nottingham University Campus to allow the players as much rest as possible. Our first
opponents were Middlesex and we got off to a good start with a 10-0 win. The next match was against Durham played in a brand
new sports hall and we had another comfortable win of 9-1 before turning around and playing another match against Warwickshire
when we put in another good performance to win 9-1.
The tournament is split into 9 groups with the top two teams from each group progressing forward to play for the top 1-16 places.
We had ended our first day successfully.
The next day was to be difficult with us scheduled to play 4 matches and we started the day with two good wins over Avon 9-1
and Lincolnshire 9-1. We had a long wait until after dinner when we had to play two matches one after the other. The first was
against Cheshire which we won 10-0 and the second against Nottinghamshire the home side who always manage to bring plenty
of support. Notts had very strong girls and we started the mixed in fine form but the experience of the Notts pair told against
Callum and Sarah and we lost 21-9. Adam and Katie were not giving up with out fight and turned round at 11- 9 but again the
older pair proved tough opponents and we just lost 21-16. Mark Newbery went on to play a strong game and win 21-17 and not to
be out played Mark Cappleman proved he could win too by coming in at 21-14. Panuga put in a positive game at 1 st girls singles
to win 21-10 so giving us the 3-2 lead.
Alyssia gave us the game of the match with the score ebbing and flowing right up to the end when all that is good about ICT and
all that is bad happened. With the score at 20-20 and we had been trying to ensure the noise we made matched Nottingham’s home
supporters, Alyssia had put up a brilliant display of fighting for every point and had earned the serve for the match. She had
decided to put her serve very high up into rafters and unfortunately it hit a beam which was a fault. The whole of the Nottingham
support cheered which was less than sporting. The Nottingham player then served to win the game 21-20. This evened the score at
3 –3. Callum and Adam lost 21-4 but Mark and Mark won 21-18
Sarah and Panuga could not hold the 1st pair and lost 21-6 and Katie and Lisa also lost 21-4. So we had lost our first match 6-4
which meant we were now playing for 5 to 8 places. We left the sports hall late that night very tired and disappointed.
We started the next day against an Ulster side which consisted of many of the Irish National squad. Callum and Sarah lost to a
strong 1st mixed pair 21-8 and Adam and Katie just lost 21 –16 which put us on the back foot a little. Panuga went out and
produced a graceful performance that had the opposition asking how old she was and when told only 14 they were silent and just
watched some more until Panuga finished 21-3 a near faultless game. Alyssia keen to reverse the last game took us all to the edges
of our seats again but this time turned the result in her favour at 21- 20. Mark Newbery put in a strong performance but came out
just losing 21-19. Mark Cappleman met a strong older boy and lost 21-14.
Sarah and Alyssia lost 21-7 but Katie and Lisa produced a convincing performance to win 21-12. Callum and Matthew had a hard
battle but just lost 21-16 and both the Marks had a similar result just losing 21-16. We had played and fought hard but we lost the
match 7-3.
We had to play Leinster next and we got back to winning ways and with Callum and Sarah winning 21-14 and Adam and Katie
21-19. Matthew had a battle but just lost to a strong boy 21-16 but Mark Newbery produced a good win 21-16. Panuga won
convincingly 21-11 with Sarah meeting a strong opponent and lost 21-4. The boys put on very strong performances with Callum
and Adam winning 21-11 and Mark and Mark winning comfortably 21-3. Our girls were not to be out done by the boys and
completed a double with Panuga and Alyssia wining 21-9 and Katie and Lisa 21-4. So we ended up with a creditable 8-2 win.
Hampshire Badminton 9
Everybody rushed back to get ready for the disco which in the past has not enthralled all the players. This time it was different.
Callum lead the way with sartorial elegance with his dress and our girls may not have been in the final but they had a good time on
the dance floor.
The final day had us playing one game where we faced our Shires League opponents Kent. Mark Cappleman had a good game and
won 21-10 but Matthew produced a game of the tournament for the boys by winning an epic battle that went to the wire with
Matthew holding his own to win 21-20. Callum and Sarah lost 21-14; Adam and Katie produced a good win of 21-12. Panuga
again produced her consistent 21-5 win and Alyssia again proved she was over the Nottingham game to win 21-19. Callum and
Adam had a strong pair of boys and lost 21-7. But the Marks showed their class to win 21-2. Panuga and Alyssia were not to be
out done and won 21-6 with Katie and Lisa just missing out 21-15. We ended up with a 7-3 win.
Our tournament was over we had produced a good performance and finished 6 th.
The final was won by Yorkshire then Hertfordshire with Notts and Buckinghamshire following. Six of the team have been
enthused to do better next year when we return with a strong side and a good chance of getting a higher position.
It was a good trip both on and off the court with a strong team spirit and we are sure everyone enjoyed the experience. We look
forward to building another team next season.
Very best wishes to those of you who move on to the Senior County next season we will be watching your progress with interest.
Thank you for your commitment to the Junior County and we hope you take fond memories with you.
Alan & Shirley Baker - Team Managers
**********************
Under 15 Nationals Badminton Championships
Hampshire really excelled at the Under 15 Nationals Badminton Championships this year. Between them Mark
Cappleman, aged 14 and Panuga Riou, who is only just 14 swooped the Boys Singles, Boys Doubles, Girls Singles
and Girls Doubles titles. This is a fantastic achievement for Hampshire winning both the girls' and the boys' titles.
The Under 15 Nationals were held at a big sports centre in Norwich boasting 12 badminton courts. The tournament
was a two-day event and the top 48 boys and top 32 girls in England were accepted into the singles, which started on
the Saturday. Mark and Panuga were both seeded number one in their respective events. They both played 4 matches
on the Saturday to reach the quarter-finals. Mark played Doubles with his regular partner Mark Middleton from
Yorkshire. Panuga teamed up with fellow England player Emma Woolley from Staffordshire for this tournament.
On the Sunday the semi-finals and finals took place as well as the “Standard Challenge” event for Grade 3 and 4
players, so there was a large crowd. Mark won the singles final against Nayan Patel from Leicestershire 15-9,15-3 and
the doubles final with Mark Middleton 15-13, 15-4 against Nayan Patel and James Lauder from Shropshire. Panuga
won her singles in the final 11-0, 11-0 (what an amazing result!) against Sarah Milne from Yorkshire. Sarah had
unexpectedly knocked out the number two seed in the semi-final. Panuga and Emma beat Hayley Rodgers (Cheshire)
and Lauren Smith (Cumbria) 15-6, 15-8 in the final. It was an amazing day for Hampshire junior badminton.
Both players work very hard, training as part of the England World Class Start set up at the Westgate Badminton
Centre in Winchester. Mark lives in Fleet and Panuga lives in Emsworth and boards at Westgate during the week.
Both train with the Hampshire Junior squads and play regularly for Hampshire in the Under 15 matches and at the
Under 17 age level too. Recently they were part of the 8 strong Under 15 team that represented Hampshire against the
other top counties in England and lost only in the final to rivals Yorkshire, who have dominated junior county
badminton for some years.
They both represent England regularly – since last September they have played for England in the Danish Cup (in
Denmark), at Langenfeld (in Germany) and in the prestigious 8 Nations (again held in Denmark) where the team got
third position and returned with bronze medals.
Hampshire Badminton 10
Hampshire U.14 OPEN TOURNAMENT
Played at The Westgate Centre, 29th/30th April 2006 – Report by Julie Newbold
This tournament was once again well supported by 36 boys from a wide variety of counties; however, there was a significantly
low entry of girls which was further depleted by withdrawals due to injury or sickness which resulted in 12 girls playing over the
weekend. Notable by their absence were our two Hampshire seeds Anna Showan and Laura Baker (no doubt well recovered by
now).
For the first time in recent years the tournament ran to schedule, if not slightly ahead of schedule on the Saturday morning due to
some very convincing wins in the first round which had only one three setter in the whole round. This enabled the Girls’ Doubles
to be played to completion on the Saturday with all other events played through to the semi-final stage. As usual, the early rounds
were played in boxes with the winners going through to the knock-out stages.
The Boys’ Singles final was contested by Jake Wyatt (Gl) and Tom Stanford (Bu). Tom was very happy to have reached the final
as he was a reserve entry following a late withdrawal but Jake was the stronger player and took the title 15/8 15/9.
The Girls’ Singles final was contested by Vikki Primmer (Bk) and Josie Latimer (Ha). Josie bravely fought against a stronger and
more experience player and lost to a worthy winner. Don’t worry Josie, you will have another chance next year!
The Boys’ Doubles title was won by Tim Stranks/Jake Wyatt (Gl) and the Mixed by Jake playing with Harri Mortimer (Av),
completing Jake’s well deserved hat trick.
Another successful tournament despite no Hampshire winners. It is always a pleasure to watch such talented and committed young
players competing. Well done to you all. Thanks as always to the organising committee.
Another talented bunch of young players. Lets hope that they continue to enjoy their badminton and remain in the game.
EDITOR
************************
HAMPSHIRE U.16 OPEN TOURNAMENT
Held at The Westgate Centre, 13th & 14th May 2006 - Report by Julie Newbold
This tournament was as popular as ever with 38 boys and 21 girls taking part over two days. Each event was played in boxes up to
the knock-out stages, playing the best of 3 sets to 11 with setting for the Girls’ Singles and 3 sets to 15 with setting for all other
events. Due to several short notice withdrawals, groups were re-arranged and new partnerships formed in order for players to
enjoy the competition, and with players’ co-operation and the speedy reorganization by the committee the tournament was able to
proceed without interruption.
Ben, Panuga & Adam with their singles trophies
Hampshire, on home territory, had a good contingent
of players in all events and took two titles. In the
Boys’ Singles Adam Rickenbach went through to the
final beating Stuart Rowland (So) in his quarter-final
15/10 15/8 and then beating James Reynolds (He),
the top seed, 10/15 15/6 15/5 in the semi-final.
Meanwhile Ben Tier reached the final by beating
Oliver Crabb (He) 15/3 15/12 in his quarter-final and
then Ben Stawski (Wk), the second seed, 5/15 15/2
15/10 in the semi-final. This set up an all Hampshire
final which Ben eventually won 15/7 15/11.
In the Girls’ Singles Panuga Riou (Ha) had no
difficulty reaching the final, dropping only two points,
before beating Rebecca Greenstreet (Ke) 11/2 11/1 to
take the title. Rebecca had previously beaten Laura
Baker (Ha) in a tight three setter semi-final 3/11 11/8
11/9.
Hampshire Badminton 11
Hampshire also had strong representation in the Doubles events. Panuga Riou playing
with a scratch partner Kim George (Su) took the Girls’ Doubles title, beating the top
seeds Hayley & Phillipa Rogers (Ch) 5/15 15/13 17/14 in a very tight 3 setter.
Meanwhile in the Boys’ Doubles, Ben Tier (Ha)/Stuart Rowland (So) lost their
quarter-final match to Douglas Furze/Adam Southgate (Ex) 15/13 13/15 5/15 whilst
Adam Rickenbach(Ha)/Andrew Brunning(Ex) reached the final beating Oliver Crabb/
Matthew Westwood (He) 16/17 15/5 15/8 and then James Buffham (Su)/James
Wild (Ex) 17/14 15/11 on the way. Unfortunately the top seeds of James Reynolds
(He)/Ben Stawski (Wk) were too strong for Adam & Andrew, taking the title 15/9
15/11.
Mixed Doubles winners & runners-up with
Hampshire Chairman Diana Troke
Girls’ Doubles winners Kim &
Panuga
Boys’ Doubles winners & runners-up
Ben, James, Adam & Andrew
In the Mixed Doubles, Adam Rickenbach once again reached the
playoffs, this time partnered by Katie Walters (Ha), only to lose in
the semi finals to Oliver Crabb (He)/Phillipa Rogers (Ch) 15/5 15/4.
They in turn lost to Ben Stawski (Wk)/Kim George (Su) 15/5 15/11
in the final.
Once again it proved to be a successful weekend with a really high standard of badminton. It is great to see the Westgate Centre
full of promising young players. Thanks to the tournament committee for all their hard work, to the Centre for providing such
excellent facilities, and, not least, to Margaret Houlton for once again working so hard in the cafeteria. It is not surprising that we
have so many entries from outside the County for our Open tournaments and on this occasion we could keep the parents (&
players sitting off) extra happy by showing the Cup Final in the lounge.
Once again a good performance by Panuga winning two titles, also Ben for winning the Boys’ Singles and Adam for reaching
the last stages of all three events but not quite managing to take a title. WELL DONE TO ALL THE PLAYERS!
EDITOR
********************
SHIRES LEAGUE UNDER-17 SUCCESS
Report by Chris Newbery
The Shires League comprises 27 counties and has three age groups: Under-13/15/17. To qualify for the
Finals it is necessary for each participating county to finish first or second in one of four regional groups.
Hampshire competes in the strong South-East region consisting of Essex, Hertfordshire, Middlesex, Surrey,
Sussex, Berkshire and Kent. Everyone knew that the Hertfordshire Under 17 team would be difficult to beat,
so it was really a question of which county would qualify for the Finals as runner-up.
Hampshire Badminton 12
Prior to Christmas there were two away matches and the results were very much as anticipated. There was a
convincing win over Essex 13-7 and a loss against Hertfordshire 5-15, the latter county fielding a team that
included several players who had represented England at Under-17 level. Nevertheless, there were some
good performances by Hampshire players.
After Christmas, Hampshire was in unstoppable form beating Middlesex 20-0, Surrey 15-5, Sussex 18-2 and
Berkshire 16-4, the last three being home matches. This left a final match against Kent at Gillingham on 2nd
April. The winner would be second in the group, Kent having won all their ties except against Hertfordshire.
Kent had almost a full strength team while Hampshire were without Callum Lawson (playing cricket in
Barbados!) and players who had been selected for the Under-15 Team Challenge that was taking place on
the same day. Nevertheless, the Hampshire team was well and truly up for it. The tie started with 4 mixed
doubles matches, Hampshire winning 3 of them. Mark Newbery and Sarah Cappleman had to play
exceptionally well to beat the Kent number one pair (Martin Woolley and Gemma Whiting) 15-9, 11-15, 1513. This slightly unexpected victory gave Hampshire the psychological advantage. Next up were the 8
singles matches which finished all square. Matt Showan and Lisa Turner did well to win their matches in
three having lost their first games.
So the level doubles matches commenced with Hampshire retaining a one match lead. Hampshire got off to
a good start with Mark Newbery and Adam Rickenbach beating the Kent number one pair (Martin Woolley
and Jonny Gatusch) 15-12, 15-8 while Matt Showan and Sam Hallett won a hard fought match 15-10, 11-15,
15-8. The boys’ doubles matches finished with Hampshire having established a 2 match lead so it was all
down to the girls to seal the win. This they did in wonderful style by winning all their matches. Sarah
Cappleman and Alyssia Broomfield played very well to beat the quality number one Kent pair (Gemma
Whiting and Rebecca Greenstreet) 15-11,15-12 while Katie Walters and Lisa Turner battled hard to win both
their matches in three.
The final result was 14-6, a much tougher tie than the scoreline suggests and Hampshire can be proud of a
superb team performance. The players knew that whatever happened in the Finals they would receive
regional runners-up medals for their efforts.
Eight counties qualified for the Finals that were held at Babington College, Leicester on Sunday 7th May.
This date clashed with a major Under 16 tournament at Wimbledon so some fresh faces appeared in the
Under 17 team and all of them did well.
Hampshire’s first match was against Nottinghamshire and with the likes of Chris Adcock in the Notts team
it was not entirely a surprise for Hants to lose 9-1. Sam Hallett, playing second singles, was the sole victor.
Having lost this initial encounter, Hants played Suffolk in the fight for 5th to 8th places. The result was a
convincing victory for Hants 8-2, with Alyssia Broomfield and Jamie Allen winning their singles matches
21-1 and 21-3 respectively. This meant that Hampshire was now playing for 5th or 6th position against a
good Staffordshire team. It was neck and neck all the way – all square in the mixed doubles, the singles and
the level doubles. So it all came down to points, Hampshire winning by a margin of 37. Looking back on
the individual games, Hants lost three of the doubles by only a few points and won two of the singles and
one of the doubles by big margins, so this decided the outcome.
Achieving 5th place and coming above Staffordshire, Warwickshire and Suffolk can be regarded as a
success. The first four places were taken by Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Buckinghamshire and
Hertfordshire – all very strong teams. So congratulations to the team that represented Hants in the Finals:
Callum Lawson, Alex Huttunen, Matthew Showan, Sam Hallett, Andrew Manners, Sarah Cappleman, Liz
Hampshire Badminton 13
Fearnley, Alyssia Broomfield, and Jamie Allen. And let’s not forget members of the squad that played in the
earlier rounds who contributed to a successful Shires League campaign.
U17 Shires League Final Team
Callum Lawson, Matthew Showan, Sam Hallett, Andrew Manners, Alex Huttunen
Sarah Cappleman, Alyssia Broomfield, Liz Fearnley, Jamie Allen, Alan Baker
**************
U15 SHIRES LEAGUE FINAL
Hampshire are National Champions!
We have been able to produce a very strong U15 team for some years now and this year was no exception. So in
April we found our selves at Leicester to play in the final, with a team of Mark Cappleman, Ben Tier, Ben Muir,
Tom Forsyth, James Taylor, Helena Cable, Alice Leung, Panuga Riou and Jessica Shotton.
Our first match was against Nottingham and we started slowly with Ben and Jessica losing a hard match 21-14
and James and Alice also losing 21-10. But we were on the road to recovery with Mark and Ben Tier winning
comfortably 21-4 and 21-6. Panuga was not to be out done and put in a faultless 21-0 display only to be matched
by Helena with a 21-1. Mark and Ben Muir kept up the good work winning 21-2 and Ben Tier and Tom winning 2116. Panuga and Jessica won 21-14 with Helena and Alice losing 21-7. So we came out winning 7-3. This put us
through to play for 1 to 4th place.
Here we met Avon. Ben Muir and Jessica gave us a good start winning 21-14 with Tom and Alice missing out to
lose 21-4. Mark produced a solid performance to win 21-10 and Ben Tier cruised through with 21-6. Panuga
produced another great performance to win 21-1. Helena’s luck ran out and she lost 21-7. We then went on to
establish ourselves as the team everybody had to beat if they wanted the trophy, with the boys Mark and Ben
Muir and Ben Tier and James winning 21-18 and 21-3 respectively. Our girls were not to be out done and won
convincingly with Panuga and Jessica 21-13 and Alice and Helena 21-4.
Our next match was against Leicestershire who had beaten Yorkshire and this was to be a tougher match. We
started gently with Ben Muir and Jessica losing 21-10 and Tom and Alice 21-2 and feeling a little nervous, but
we need not have worried as Mark and Ben Tier produced strong performances by winning 21-1 and 21-2. Panuga
also cruised in at 21-5 and Helena again came home strongly with 21-9. Mark and Ben Muir had a battle with a
very quick pair of boys and lost 21-12. But Ben Tier and James won a good game 21-15. Panuga and Jessica had a
real battle with a good pair of girls but won through to give us a great win at 21-18 and Alice and Helena lost 2111. So we had won the day at 6-4 and were the National County Champions.
This was a really good performance as Helena had just returned to playing after a long lay off and some of the
players had not played together before.
It was an enjoyable day that proves the Juniors are in a healthy state. Congratulations to you all on a job well
done.
U15 SHIRES LEAGUE WINNERS
James Taylor, Ben Muir, Ben Tier, Alice Leung, Jessica Shotton,
Helena Cable, Mark Cappleman, Panuga Riou,Tom Forsyth
Hampshire Badminton 14
PRECIS OF SOME REPORTS GIVEN AT THE COUNTY AGM ON 28th JUNE 2006
COUNTY SECRETARY’S REPORT – Hazel Marks
Hazel Marks reported that another year on the calendar had been completed with some changes and disappointments but again
more that our fair share of successes.
At last year’s AGM we were delighted to welcome Clive Ricks, the new Chief Executive of Badminton England but within weeks
he had left his post and Eric Brown had been appointed Acting C.E. At the time of this year’s AGM he is still in post but a new
CE is to be appointed shortly. (After note: the new CE, Adrian Christie, starts work in September). In November 2005 Nigel Tier’s
part time role as our Development Officer came to an end. This responsibility was handed over to our new full-time BDO, Helen
Davies, an experienced Sports Development Officer, and funded by the new lottery money allocated to Badminton England. We
are now part of the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Badminton Development Group working with Helen and representatives from the
Hampshire County Sports Partnership, Local Authorities & Schools. It will take some time to see results filtering through to senior
clubs, but the groundwork is happening right now.
On the senior club front, disappointingly, we lost 5 clubs and gained only 3 new ones with membership also on the decline in line
with the national trend. This is the challenge facing our new BDO and all of us.
One the success side our 1st County team, playing in the National League Premier A, managed to avoid relegation by the skin of
their teeth and our 2nd & 3rd teams finished second & third respectively in their Divisions. Our Under 21 Team finished third in
their National Finals.
At Veteran level, in the European Senior Badminton Championships in May, Jack Webb won a Silver medal in the 45+ Men’s
Singles and Barbara Gibson a Bronze in the 60+ Mixed Doubles.
Our Juniors continue to do us proud with many successes individually and in team competitions. Several have represented their
country in age group competitions again this season. One of our Academy girls, Panuga Riou, is National U15 Singles and
Doubles Champion, while Mark Cappleman is also a Singles and Doubles U15 Champion. (See report on page 11)
Our target for 2006/07 is to increase our overall club membership, create more clubs for both adults and children – and
get more people playing this great sport of ours.
***************************
MATCH SECRETARY’S REPORT – Caz Lee
All home fixtures for the 2nd and 3rd teams were played at Westgate Centre once again but the 1 st and 17-21 sides did not have
home matches due to the group format of their matches.
1st Team The team finished 8th in Premier A having recovered from being placed 10 th before the start of the final weekend of
matches and therefore avoided relegation. Although the team ended up four points clear of relegated Lancashire, the relegation
issue remained undecided until part way through the final round of matches on the final day of the season (see page 4 for full
report.). Matches were played in Milton Keynes (Two week-ends) and Walsall.
2nd Team. Division 1D. This team finished second to a strong Middlesex side despite both teams winning seven of their eight
matches. An unfinished match against Somerset (away) with a subsequent issue around the intended completion of the match at
the return fixture caused a good deal of difficulty. The result was eventually awarded to Hampshire and an intended fine for failing
to complete the match was withdrawn by Badminton England.
3rd Team. Division 4D. Having been promoted at the end of last season the team finished third in the division, equal on points
and ties with second placed Somerset 2. Worcestershire 2 were 1 st.
17 – 21 Team. The U.21 side were runners up in the regional part of the competition and progressed to the national finals as best
runners- up. At the finals in Leicester they finished third with Hertfordshire taking the top spot with Staffordshire 2 nd.
***************************
Hampshire Badminton 15
TOURNAMENT SECRETARY’S REPORT - Jan Harvey
Once again the 2005-06 Season saw a full programme of events taking place in Hampshire. All the County tournaments were well
supported and it was particularly rewarding to see the success of so many of our own county players in the open events. To single
out one player would be unfair but congratulations must go to Panuga Riou and the Cappleman family of Sarah, Stephen & Mark
who all had an excellent season.
As with the Senior Restricted Tournament, a weekend is now reserved for the Junior Restricteds (although not necessarily the
Badminton England recommended date). To give players the opportunity of “playing up” the U.11s and U.15s played on the
Saturday and the U.13s & U.17s played on the Sunday. As luck would have it, the entries for the U.13 & U.17 age groups were the
biggest for some years making time extremely tight with the committee feeling that players maybe did not get sufficient games.
This hopefully will be rectified in the coming season.
This short report refers only to Hampshire run tournaments. There were of course many other successful tournaments run by the
Districts. Long may they continue.
*********************
COACHING REPORT - Dennis Blazye
Prior to the start of the 2005/6 season the Coaching Sub-Committee met to discuss, among other things, the allocation of the most
talented children in the county to the Development, Team & Excellence coaching squads that operate on a weekly basis
throughout the season. There were about 180 children to allocate to the squads with ages ranging from 10 to 17 and with various
levels of talent.
The Team and Reserve squads operated at the Westgate Centre on five courts every Saturday between 8.30am and 6pm whilst the
Development squads operated at the Highbury College on four courts every Saturday between 9am and 1.30pm. The Centre of
Excellence operated in the evenings at the Connaught Centre, Aldershot, the Admiral Lord Nelson School, Portsmouth, Highbury
College, Portsmouth and the Westgate Centre. These sessions involved 16 qualified coaches on a regular basis with a number of
helpers and although there are 100 Hampshire coaches on the Badminton England Coaches Register, more are needed to cope with
all the coaching including the schools work that is currently being generated mainly due to the fact that we now have Helen
Davies as our permanent Badminton Development Officer.
Several Level 1 and Level 2 Badminton England coaching courses had taken place throughout the season with more in the
pipeline. For some reason, Level 1 coaches seem to be less confident of passing the Level 2 award and are reticent about putting
their names forward to take that award. This seems to be the case throughout Badminton England.
************************
SCHOOLS & JUNIOR REPORT - Jean Merrikin
In the ICT competition for U17’s, the Hampshire team did very well to finish in 6 th place out of the 38 counties competing,
including two teams from Ireland, two from Wales and a team from Jersey. Alan & Shirley Baker were team managers to a team,
who were well supported by every team member. Shirley & Alan deserved the vote of thanks given them for their great
contribution at the ICT weekend. All coaches had done so well to get the players to the necessary high standard, not only for this
event, but also for all other events during the season.
National U.15 Champion. Singles & Girls Doubles, Panuga Riou
National U.15 Champion. Singles & Boys Doubles, Mark Cappleman.
National U.13 Championships. Steven Cappleman losing quarter-finalist Singles and losing finalist in the
Boys Doubles.
Young Persons Awards. Bruce Peake, Mark Cappleman & Panuga Riou are to be nominated for National Awards.
In the U.15 Challenge the team finished 2nd to Yorkshire
In the U.15 Shires League final Hampshire won.
In the U.13 Team Challenge the team finished third, a good effort but more depth is needed in this age group. We have some
promising under 11/12 year olds coming along.
Hampshire Badminton 16
More teams entered the Schools Challenge Cup this season with thanks to both Jackie Page and Helen Davies for their enthusiasm
and influence in getting schools to participate.
************************
VETERANS’ EVENTS REPORT - By Margaret Houlton
1. INTER TOWN MATCHES. Eligible to players not selected to play in the Inter-County Championships, the format being 2
men’s, 2 ladies’ and 2 mixed pairings playing their corresponding pair from the other regions. Southampton/Winchester were the
winners with Fleet second and Basingstoke third.
2. COUNTY RESTRICTED. 8 pairs entered the Ladies’ Doubles, only 6 pairs in the Men’s Doubles but a healthier 21 pairs in
the Mixed Doubles. All events played at the Westgate Centre.
3. INTER-COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIPS. We had teams in all 6 age groups with all the regional rounds played in Sussex.
Over 40 - Won by Hants, 1st out of 5
Over 45 – Won by Surrey. Hants were 2nd out of 6
Over 50 – Won by Kent. Hants 3rd out of 4
Over 55 – Won by Kent. Hants 3rd out of 5
Over 60 – Won by Kent. Hants 3rd out of 5
Over 65 – Won by Hants. 1st out of 3.
By winning the regional round the 40 and 65 teams qualified to play in the national finals at Hatfield. Although the 40’s came 4th
they beat the eventual winners in a tight section where a later result on count back at 2-2 went against them. The 65s found the
competition tough, winning just one match.
4. INTER-COUNTY LEAGUE. We had teams in all 6 age groups with the following results:40s won 7 and lost 1.
45s won 4 and lost 3
50s won 4 and lost 4
55s won 1, drew 1 and lost 3 60s won 5 and lost 3
65s won 3 and lost 3.
The 40s won their group but were then defeated by Herts in the South/East play offs. The 60s and the 65s both finished 2 nd in their
leagues.
5. HAMPSHIRE VETERANS’ OPEN. This was our 15th Open, attracting an entry of 52 pairs from 17 counties. There were 14
pairs of ladies in 3 sections, 15 pairs of men in 3 sections and 23 mixed pairs in 4 age groups with 2 sections in the 40s. 4 of the
winning players came from Hampshire in the 40s events, 2 men, 1 ladies and 1 man in the mixed.
6. HAMPSHIRE VETERANS’ CLUB. The Veterans’ Club, now in its 8th year continues to flourish, meeting the 1st Sunday of
every month at the Westgate Centre from 6pm – 9pm.
******************************
DEVELOPMENT OFFICERS REPORT NOV ’05 – MAY ’06 – Helen Davies
During this period the Action Plan for my work has been written until Mar ’07, focusing on achieving targets for participation,
membership, number of coaches, number of volunteers and number of accredited clubs. Some of the key issues in achieving these
targets include a lack of junior clubs, a lack of opportunity for beginner adult players and a falling club membership. A summary
of the progress made so far on various projects is below:RETURN TO SPORT: This is a Hampshire-wide sports program focusing on adults who used to play badminton then gave up
because of a variety of reasons. The format is a 10 week tutored course with a group of 8 – 12 players linked to a local club or
with the intention to form a new club. This programme is available to all clubs within Hampshire excluding the Unitary
Authorities – no financial support is needed from the club, I will pay for courts, coaches, publicity and equipment.
Courses so far: Eastleigh at Bishopstoke Hub, Romsey at Romsey Community School and Winchester at the Lido.
Planned Courses: Hart Leisure Centre and Taro Leisure Centre, Petersfield.
JUNIOR CLUB DEVELOPMENT. A major focus of my work is to encourage more young people to take up badminton, and
with this in mind new junior clubs are planned for the following areas.:- Bitterne, Winchester, Basingstoke, Eastleigh and Romsey.
Bitterne is the most advance club with two sessions attracting more than 30 children each week.
Hampshire Badminton 17
CLUB ACCREDITATION. I am very pleased to be able to congratulate Milton Nomadic on achieving the high standards
needed to be able to call themselves Hampshire’s first Silver Club. All of the volunteers at the club have worked very hard to
achieve this, and they will soon be reaping the benefits including 2 members visiting the National Badminton Centre to meet and
watch top players in training, a specific Yehlex shuttle scheme and greater access to funding. Hampshire also has 11 more clubs
working towards Clubmark, with more registering monthly.
FUNDING. With many funding pots accessible to badminton clubs to extend the range of activities that they currently provide,
supporting facilities and clubs with funding applications is an important part of my role. The Hub at Bishopstoke has recently
gained £5000 to develop junior sessions, women-only sessions and coaching for those with disabilities. Funding from Hampshire
County Council has been accessed for the Return to Sport programme and to support the recent Coaches Conference.
HAMPSHIRE GAMES. One of the major development events is the annual Hampshire Games, with the Mini Games catering
for School Years 5 & 6 and the Youth Games for Years 7 & 8. A new addition to this is the introduction of the 50+ Games, which
sees 50+ and 65+ players competing for local authorities. Over 100 young people will take part in the Mini & Youth games and
these players will be fed into local clubs and county development squads.
My role is to support and develop badminton within Hampshire. If there is anything that I can assist you or your club with, please
contact me: Tel: 07725413548 or email: [email protected].
A TRIBUTE TO RAY BROTHERS - by Linda Coombes
We said “goodbye” to this well known badminton player in this area on 6 th April 2006.
Ray was a regular player in the Southampton League for many years. He was still competing in the premier
division in his 60’s and still winning matches, such was his character and ability, never giving up, always giving
100% until he was forced to hang up his racket due to ill health..
9 years ago Ray was diagnosed with a brain tumour with 4 months to live. He battled with his health just as he
battled on the court, never giving in or giving up but unhappily at the age of 74 he could battle no longer and lost
his fight for life.
His enthusiasm and knowledge of badminton was the envy of many fellow players. He was also an excellent
coach, giving his time freely to encourage others. He started playing at the age of 15, competitively at 17, in the
days when you cycled 9 miles to a venue, played your match and cycled home in the depths of winter. That to me
was the true meaning of a very keen player.
Ray represented Wiltshire in the 1960’s, played County Veterans for over 20 years as well as local league
badminton. He met hundreds of people through badminton and all share fond memories of Ray’s unique
character, wit and his love of the game. He was magnanimous having won and gracious in defeat.
The current Badminton England logo is “Play it, Love it, Live it” and this certainly summed up Ray’s attitude to
badminton. He was a role model on court who never lost his cool or his temper in 50 years of competitive play.
I had the privilege of partnering Ray for many seasons. He has left his impression on the game and will be greatly
missed.
BADMINTON HAS LOST ONE OF ITS TRUE REPRESENTATIVES.
I had the privilege of playing against Ray several times in league matches and watching him on many occasions during his vet
years, and, although I didn’t know him well, I certainly remember him for his skill and ability on court but most of all for his
courteous manner to all, whether team members or opponents. Players of his calibre do not come along too often. He certainly
will be missed.
EDITOR.
Hampshire Badminton 18
WESTGATE BADMINTON CENTRE’S SUMMER RESIDENTIAL CAMPS
FOR U/17 ADVANCED JUNIORS 2006
These were held over two long weekends August 4th, 5th and 6th and August 11th, 12th and 13th at the Westgate
Badminton Centre. The Centre has five International Standard Courts, plenty of height, a good floor and facilities
second to none. The Rotherley Residence House is on the same Westgate site and is perfect for all our needs.
The experience of the Staff members Paul Whetnall, Sarah Burgess and Simon Broomfield worked well as a team and
the young advanced players gained and learned lots about Performance. The players had lots of variety in their daily
programme but the essential solid basis of Quality, Setting Standards, Leaving nothing to Chance, Personal
Development, Footwork Movements, Consistency and Accuracy were just some of the areas covered. They each had a
Personal Performance Profile to fill in and also a Quiz on what affects Performance.
The Courses we believe were well received and hopefully the players will become more Dedicated, Disciplined and
Determined to reach their Goals.
Our thanks to Westgate Badminton Centre and Rotherley House for all their hard work in preparing the Course.
The Courses will be taking place in the Summer of 2007 and if you would like to join us then please contact our
website in the New Year at www.westgatebadmintoncentre.co.uk
Paul Whetnall
***************************
And now – the new season…
September already and the memory of the heat wave is beginning to fade… Another badminton season full of
challenges and opportunities beckons.
The 2006-07 season will give us the opportunity to try the new Rally Points system of scoring. Some Districts
will plunge in straightaway, while others wait and see. Ultimately we shall all make the change because it makes
sense and because there will be no going back to the old system nationally or internationally.
This time last year we were welcoming Matt Shuker as our new Regional Development Manager. Sadly he has
been lured away into another job and his position is currently vacant. Meanwhile Helen Davies, our Badminton
Development Officer, has settled in and got to know and help quite a lot of you. So the Development work will
continue as before.
If Districts would like to run Personal Performance Courses for their club members, Hampshire is able to
provide coaches, advice and some financial help. Several Districts used to run them in the past, but recently
only the Basingstoke League has done so. Ask your club members if they would like a coaching course and then
approach your District Committee members to get it set up.
Most clubs are now re-affiliating their members promptly at the start of the new season. Your individual
insurance cover expires on 30 September. It is important to renew it to avoid the possibility of a claim being
lodged against someone who is uninsured. Club officials have a big responsibility to pass on the affiliation fees in
good time. Don’t let your members or yourselves be vulnerable to expensive claims. And don’t wait for the very
last member to pay up – it may be too late. Fill in the forms and send off the money to Badminton England for
the majority by the end of September and it won’t take long to do the rest later.
Your Management Committee is there to help you. If you would like any help or advice with any aspect of your
club badminton do not hesitate to contact me or Helen Davies and we shall do our best to help. Meanwhile, I
hope you all have a happy and successful new season.
Hazel Marks – County Secretary/Registration Secretary
Hampshire Badminton 19
What’s on at Westgate Badminton Centre
September to December 2006
September 17
Yonex Open Day 12-5pm*
September 24
Veterans Restricted 5-9pm
th
th
Sep 30 /Oct 1
Senior Restricted
October 7
Under 17 Open
th
st
th
October 15
th
Veterans Match 2-6pm
rd
Ashaway Junior Open graded Tournament Under 11 & U17*
October 23
October 24
th
Ashaway Junior Open U15*
October 25
th
Ashaway Junior Open U13*
October 29
th
2 Team Match 1-6pm
nd
November 12
Junior Match 11-3pm
November 26
2 & 3 Team Match 1-6pm
th
th
nd
rd
December 2 /3 Hampshire Open
nd
rd
December 10
th
Veterans Match 2-6pm
December 17
th
Junior Match 11-5pm
December 22/23 Bonanza Social Tournament
December 28/29 Bonanza League Tournament
* check www.hampshirebadminton.co.uk for details/entry forms
Hampshire Badminton 20
Tournament Dates for your Diaries
6-11 Mar 07
NIA,
Birmingham
Hampshire Senior:
Restricted:
Hampshire Open:
County K.O. Cup:
30-Sep/1-Oct
2/3 Dec-06
tba
Westgate
Westgate
Westgate
Hampshire Junior:
Open U17:
Restricted U11:
Restricted U15:
Restricted U13
Restricted U17:
Hants Schools U14 Open:
Hants Schools U16 Open:
07-Oct-06
10-Feb-07
10-Feb-07
11-Feb-07
11-Feb-07
28/29 Apr-07
tba
Westgate
Westgate
Westgate
Westgate
Westgate
Westgate
Westgate
All England:
Basingstoke:
Restricted:
Open Level/Mixed Doubles:
11-Feb-07
11-Mar-07
Basingstoke Sports Centre
Alton Sports Centre
****************
COUNTY SELECTORS FOR 2006 – 07 SEASON
The following have been elected as Selectors for the Senior County Teams for the Coming season:Mark Peckham (Chairman), Jo Dix, Neil Potter, Chris Shepperd & Steve Sweby.
**********************
COUNTY TEAM MANAGERS FOR 2006-07
1st Team
2nd Team
3rd Team
17-21 Team
-
Trevor Shanks
Mark Peckham
Neil Potter
Matt Pascoe
If anyone knows of a player they think should be considered for any of the County teams, or, because of their
potential, should be invited along to the County Squad sessions held on Wednesday evenings at the Westgate Centre,
please contact Mark Peckham on 17880 705 935. These sessions are already in full swing.
Selections and Nominations of County Teams will be made immediately following the County Restricted Tournament,
to be held at the Westgate Badminton Centre on 30 September/1 October 2006. If you are eligible to play for
Hampshire, you should get your entry form in to the event Secretary, Janet Palmer, by 18 September (in exceptional
circumstances by 21st at the very latest). Entry forms can be downloaded from the Hampshire website at
www.hampshirebadminton.co.uk
Hampshire Badminton 21
Hampshire Badminton Association
Hampshire Fixtures for the Inter-County Championships 2006 – 2007
1st Team
Sat
Sat
Sun
Sat
Sat
Sun
Sat
Sat
Sun
11
11
12
16
16
17
31
31
1
Nov
Nov
Nov
Dec
Dec
Dec
Mar
Mar
Apr
Surrey
Worcestershire
Warwickshire
Hertfordshire
Yorkshire
Glascow & NS
Leicestershire
Avon
Essex
11.30am
4.00pm
10.30am
11.30am
4.30pm
10.00am
11.00am
4.00pm
10.00am
Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes
Univ Wolverhampton, Walsall
Univ Wolverhampton, Walsall
Univ Wolverhampton, Walsall
Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes
Oct
Nov
Nov
Nov
Feb
Feb
Mar
Mar
Avon 2
Wiltshire
Jersey
Devon
Avon 2
Devon
Wiltshire
Jersey
home
away
away
home
away
away
home
home
1.00pm
12.00pm
11.00am
1.00pm
12.00pm
1.00pm
1.00pm
1.00pm
Westgate BC, Winchester
Christie Miller SC, Melksham
St Helier, Jersey
Westgate BC, Winchester
Kingsdown SC, Bristol
Torquay Town Hall
Westgate BC, Winchester
Westgate BC, Winchester
Nov
Nov
Feb
Mar
Mar
Apr
Apr
Apr
Cornwall
Somerset 2
Somerset 2
Cornwall
Wiltshire 2
Wiltshire 2
Leinster
Leinster
away
home
away
home
home
away
away
away
tbc
1.00pm
12.00pm
1.00pm
1.00pm
12.00pm
tbc
tbc
Polkyth LC, St Austell
Westgate BC, Winchester
Westlands SC, Yeovil
Westgate BC, Winchester
Westgate BC, Winchester
Christie Miller SC, Melksham
Dublin
Dublin
Apr
Apr
tbc by Badminton England
tbc by Badminton England
2nd Team
Sun
Sun
Sat
Sun
Sun
Sun
Sun
Sun
29
5
18
26
11
25
4
18
3rd Team
Sun
Sun
Sun
Sun
Sun
Sun
Sat
Sun
5
26
25
4
18
1
14
15
Under – 21
Sat
Sun
14
15
tbc Milton Keynes
tbc Milton Keynes
Spectators and supporters for all Hampshire matches will be most welcome. Home matches played
at the Westgate Badminton Centre benefit from the comfortable theatre style seating in the viewing
gallery. There is no charge for admission. The Bar is usually open.
Hampshire Badminton 22
VETERANS’ INFORMATION FOR 2006 – 2007 SEASON
Restricted Tournaments.
Venue - Westgate Centre - Level Doubles 24/09/06 3 – 9pm & Mixed Doubles 08/10/06 5 – 9pm.
Inter County Championships. Venue - Various
13th & 14th January ‘07
Inter County League. Home Venues - Westgate Centre & the Lido, Winchester.
Hampshire Veterans’ Open. - Venue - Westgate Centre - Level Doubles 27/01/07 & Mixed Doubles 28/01/07
Veterans’ Club. Venue - Westgate Centre
1st Sunday of Month (for more information contact Gary Puhl Tel: 023 8032 6156
Please note that there have been several changes to the format and eligibility for some of the above events, and these have already
been circulated to existing Vet members. The new Rally Point scoring system will be used.
For further information regarding any of the above, please contact either Linda Coombes (Co-ordinator) Tel: 01425 657166 or
Margaret Houlton (Treasurer) Tel: 01962 869443.
TEAM CAPTAINS. 40+ Julie Taylor (07764625286), 45+ Tony Coombes (01256771175), 50+ Jennie Brindley (01252
613118), 55+ Pauline Davies (01189 700725), 60+ Margaret Houlton (01962 869443) & 65+ Alan Oakley (023 8040 2444).
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
A happy quartet of
Umpires enjoying the day
at the Hampshire Open
U16 Badminton
Tournament in May
Would you like to be a Badminton Umpire and watch matches from the best seat in the house?
There is a great shortage of Umpires at present so if you would like more information on ‘how to become one’ please come
forward and volunteer your services. The Regional Secretary for the SOUTH is Pauline Robins, Tel: 01342
715929, and I am sure she would like to hear from you. Perhaps you are thinking of retiring from playing but do not want to
leave the sport altogether, this may be the way forward for you, or perhaps after many years of line judging you would like to
change your seating arrangement. Pauline will be more than happy to advise you on the steps you need to take on how you can
acquire that elevated position. She has more requests to supply umpires for a whole range of events than she can supply at present.
YOU TOO COULD DO IT.
Alternatively, contact our County Secretary, Hazel Marks, for more information.
Hampshire Badminton 23
EDITOR
DIDUS INEPTUS – Its importance in Badminton History
Contributed by Ken Milne (First published in January 1988)
It is widely accepted that the game of Badminton originated in the 19th Century, either in India or at
Badminton House in Gloucestershire. However, information has now come to light which indicates that
the game was extremely popular in an entirely different place some 200 years earlier. This new
information also provides the answer to a long-standing zoological mystery.
My research shows that the game was well known and played extensively on the island of Mauritius up
to about the year 1681. Why Mauritius? Because it is an island in the Indian Ocean which, before the
Suez Canal was opened, could have been a port of call for ships sailing between England and India. It
is likely that the game, having originated here, spread outwards, westwards to England and eastwards
to India.
One indication is that the Island’s earliest trading laws required fishing nets to be 2’6” wide, 20 – 24
feet in length and “with a mesh of not less than ½” or more than 1” in size. This is almost identical
with the description of a badminton net in the Laws of Badminton.
There is another pointer. The Island’s history books make great mention of a villain named Mynten
whose Mafia-like activities earned him the name of Bad Mynten and his unlawful ways of raising
money became known as Bad Mynten rackets. We use this very same phrase in our game today,
Bearing the above in mind, it is quite feasible that the game did originate on the island of Mauritius.
AND the zoological mystery? The Encyclopaedia Britannica shows that the dodo bird (Didus Ineptus)
became extinct in the year 1681, the world’s last recorded sighting having been seen in that year on
this island. There were very few geese on Mauritius and it seems that shuttles were made using
feathers from the dodo. Because of the game’s popularity, the bird was eventually wiped out. How the
famous zoologist Charles Darwin overlooked this simple explanation I just do not know.
I have now met a most attractive young lady scientist who shares my belief in the origins of the game.
This letter is a formal request to the B.A of England that ample funds be provided to enable both of
us to spend the next year or two on the lovely tropical of Mauritius so that a fuller investigation can
be made.
Is it April 1st???? I take it that you didn’t spend time on Mauritius with your newfound young,
attractive lady scientist! I’m sure you would not still be happily married to Mary if you had.
EDITOR
Hampshire Badminton 24
HAMPSHIRE BADMINTON ASSOCIATION LIMITED OFFICERS- 2006-07
President: Mr. John Parker, 24a Anker Lane, Stubbington, Fareham. PO14 3HF Tel: 01329662379
Chairman: Mrs. Diana Troke, 9 Cerdic Mews, Hamble-le-Rice, Southampton. SO31 4LW
5183 Email: [email protected]
Tel: 023 8045
Secretary and Registration Secretary: Mrs. Hazel Marks, 354 Hursley Road, Chandler’s Ford, Eastleigh.
SO53 5PL Tel: 023 8025 3709 Email: [email protected]
Treasurer and Newsletter Editor: Mrs. Janet Palmer, 20 Hazel Close, Chandler’s Ford, Eastleigh. SO53
5RF Tel: 023 8025 3855 Email: [email protected]
Match Secretary: Mrs Caz Lee, 16 Kelsey Close, Titchfield Common, Fareham. PO14 4NW
581458 (home) 07801 162 241 (mob) Email: [email protected]
Tel: 01489
Coaching Secretary and Westgate Rep.: Mr. Dennis Blazye, Moorside, Pines Road, Griggs Green, Liphook.
GU30 7PL Tel: 01428 723327 Email: [email protected]
Tournament Co-ordinator and Child Welfare Officer: Mrs. Jan Harvey, 58 Thorold Road, Bitterne Park,
Southampton. SO18 1JG Tel: 023 8055 1185 Email: [email protected]
Veterans’ Co-ordinators: Miss Margaret Houlton, 56 Teg Down Meads, Winchester. SO22 5ND
Tel: 01962 869443 Email: [email protected]
and
Mrs Linda Coombes, 35 Blackwater Grove, Alderholt, Fordingbridge. SP6 3AD Tel: 01425 657166
Email: [email protected]
Hants & IOW Badminton Development Officer: Miss Helen Davies. 91 The Quadrangle, Boyatt Wood,
Eastleigh. SO50 4FX Tel: 07725 413 548 Email: [email protected]
Chairman of Selectors: Mr.Mark Peckham. 3 White Hart Cottages, Dean Lane, Whiteparish. SP5 2RQ
Mob: 07880 705 935
Junior Chairman: Mrs Jean Merrikin, Torridon, Springvale Road, Headbourne Worthy, Winchester.
SO23 7LD Tel: 01962 881917
Regional Development Manager: Vacant
Hampshire Youth Badminton Trust Secretary: Mr. John Roskell, Forest Lodge, School Road, Romsey.
SO51 7NY Tel: 01794 514357 Email: [email protected]
Westgate Badminton Centre: Cheriton Road, Winchester. 01962 877626 Fax: 01962 877627 Email:
[email protected]
Westgate Centre Manager: Mr. Nigel Tier, 16 St Georges Avenue, Warblington. PO9 2RX Tel/Fax: 023
9236 6864 Mobile: 07808 950690 Email: [email protected]
Website: www.hampshirebadminton.co.uk
Hampshire Badminton 25
Hampshire Badminton 26
Hampshire Badminton 27
Hampshire Badminton 28
Hampshire Badminton 29
Hampshire Badminton 30