Four Geelong juniors selected in national championships
Four Geelong Badminton Academy juniors have been selected to compete at the 2024 YONEX Under 13 and Under 17 National Individual Championships.
Ko Soung, Ashwin Bharati, and Samantha Succio will be part of a combined under 17 team representing Country Victoria and NT.
Abilashini Palanisamy will be part of a combined under 17 team representing Country Victoria and Tasmania.
Two other GBA players, Louis Liu and Nyi Soung, will also play as under 17s in the individual competition.
All gained entry based on their recent performances, including the Beyond Bank Junior Classic tournaments and selection for Victorian state teams.
The nationals will be held at Ken Kay Badminton Stadium, Ballarat from Sunday 29 September to Wednesday 2 October.
Geelong Badminton Academy coach Naman Bhardwaj said he was thrilled by the selections.
“These students were among the very first to join our academy, and their dedication and hard work have truly paid off,” Bhardwaj said.
“This fantastic news has created excitement and pride in the incredible growth and success we’ve achieved within just one year of establishing Geelong Badminton Academy.
“This milestone is a testament to the strength of our coaching, the commitment of our athletes, and the support of our entire community.”
Bhardwaj urged the Geelong Badminton community to support and cheer on the athletes as they prepared for this significant championship.
From the board:
Kitchen: Upgrades to the kitchen area of the players lounge are being considered. Any ideas or feedback on the kitchen, and possible improvements, would be welcomed. Please email Board secretary Rebecca Saunders on [email protected].
Defibrillator: Badminton Geelong now has its own defibrillator. Previously the only such unit was near the Leisuretime Centre reception. Because time is of the essence in a first aid emergency, there is now a defibrillator in the stadium. It is located on the wall of the storeroom between courts 1 and 6. Although the system is simple to follow, a trained first aider will be on site during opening hours.
Memberships: Half price memberships are still available to cover you until the end of the year. If you plan on hiring a court, playing a social, or purchasing gear from the Pro Shop, a membership is well worth your while.
Sponsored: Mike Simpkins and Naman Bhardwaj have both won sponsorships from Yonex, providing equipment, racquets, shoes, a bag and clothing.
Fundraising: We are looking for members who have some great fundraising ideas and also would love to organise/drive these ideas. If you have ideas or willing to help out please email Naman on [email protected].
Inaugural Tuesday comp results
Team 3 (above) consisting of Paul, Dan and Susantha stood tall as the winners of the first Tuesday night singles and doubles competition. Team 1 (below) consisting of Nye and Ko and Naman were runners up.
Paralympian aims for dual sport representation
Badminton Geelong member Bree Wright is already a Paralympian.
Bree made the Tokyo Paralympics as a member of the Gliders, the women’s national wheelchair basketball team.
She also represented Australia as a junior in diving, but a trampoline accident meant a complete change of outlook for her.
She has now set her sights on reaching the Los Angeles Paralympics in badminton, and is training at the Geelong Badminton Centre.
She receives coaching from Geelong Badminton Academy head coach Naman Bhardwaj and Badminton Geelong para player Mike Simpkins, who won two gold medals and one silver at the 2024 Australian National Para Badminton Championships.
“I really enjoyed the non-contact element and I’ve always preferred individual sports as you can play a game on your own terms,” Bree explained.
“You’re responsible for everything you do. You can own how you play. My body was able to adapt quickly, and it’s been a fun progression.”
Bree is also keen to spread greater awareness about changing the perception of people with disabilities – and particularly those in wheelchairs – to focus on what they can do.
Already a sporting high achiever, Bree also holds Bachelor of Science and is studying for a PhD in Biochemistry and Physics.
First Partner Portal sponsorship announced
Badminton Geelong is pleased to announce its first official sponsor via it’s Partner’s Portal.
Kesari Indian Restaurant Geelonghas officially partnered with Badminton Geelong, choosing to sponsor the Geelong Badminton Academy.
Badminton Sports Development and Facilities Coordinator Naman Bhardwaj said Kesari Indian Restaurant sought a specific focus on supporting and investing in the future of our junior programs.
“This partnership is a great step forward in building valuable community connections, and we’re excited about the positive impact it will have on the development of our young athletes,” Naman said.
“We are all looking forward to seeing how this collaboration unfolds.”
Badminton Geelong gear now available
You too can be a proud Badminton Geelong member sporting the latest branded gear, thanks to Promote-It Geelong.
Polo shirts, hoodies and beanies for men and women in a variety of sizes are now available. Simply visit the website at promote-it.com.au/bg/ and select the gear you want.
We also have BG branded coffee keep cups and drink bottles of offer.
As an introductory offer, Badminton Geelong members can get a 10% discount on all merchandise for a limited time.
Coach takes the cake
Geelong Badminton Academy head coach Naman Bhardwaj was surprised by his students with a fancy cake to celebrate his recent birthday. Coincidentally he also marked his second anniversary as Sports Development and Facilities Manager at Badminton Geelong.
Well done, Naman, and thanks for all you continue to do!
