Badminton boss says C’wealth a learning curve

The four players that represented TT at the competition were local Under-17 and Under-19 male and female champions, Jason Ramjass and Kristi Reno-Singh and Matthaus Wilford and Reba Fleary respectively.

Singh explained that the young players had to go up against some of the toughest international competitors in the first round of the Commonwealth Youth Games (CYG). He admitted that this was no excuse but hailed the young players’ determination and mental strength.

“They really had it tough in their opening matches. It was a bit unfortunate for the local team having to play against Malaysia and India, who were probably the highest ranked countries at the tournament. I must credit the players for not giving up, standing their ground and proudly representing Trinidad and Tobago, even in the toughest of times,” stated Singh.

The TTBA president saw the tournament as further international experience for the players. He believes the performances by the young badminton players throughout the year has been a success in terms of general development.

“It was great exposure for the local players...they put up a fight and this will surely help them in their personal development. They also faced some Canadian opposition and showed great mind-set and stamina. I thought that they stood up well against the top opposition since the Commonwealth Youth Games is ranked just under the Olympics,” continued Singh.

Singh explained that the executives of the TTBA recently met with the Ministry of Sport to discuss the local badminton fraternity’s budget for the next competitive season. He revealed that they (executives) must include their annual requests and the probable costs that goes with it. Singh added that he would surely be bidding for the implementation of a foreign-based coach which according to him, would significantly assist the development of badminton in this country.

“We have until November to send in our subvention for badminton. Presently, there are many things on our agenda especially the hopeful involvement of a foreign coach. They (Ministry) have asked us to include it on our proposal and we will. We know that the Ministry of Sport is fully focussed on development and we want to show them that we’re on the same page. The bringing in of a foreign coach will help us in so many ways,” mentioned the veteran player.

Singh also announced that the TT players will not be competing on the international circuit over the next two months. However, he made mention that they may contest one or two tournaments before year’s end.

The TTBA president called on all local players to use this time to enhance and elevate their levels and styles of play.

“For this short-term rest the players would be going back to their clubs and resuming training. I hope they make the best of this little break and continue working hard to develop their play. The 2012 season begins shortly and they must remember what they’ve learnt over the passing year, especially their weaknesses. Trinidad and Tobago has great badminton talent and our status will only go higher once we are able to successfully harness and nurture the young players,” concluded Singh.