Shuttle Time Teacher, Badminton Ghana
I have been in competitive sport since my childhood. As a track and field athlete, I set records in long jump and sprint events, including a standout leap of 6.20 meters in a 1994 long jump competition. During my time at Teacher’s Training College, I set a college long jump record of 7.32 meters in 1999.
In team sports, I represented my college in volleyball, tennis and badminton, earning medals and accolades for my performances. Transitioning into adulthood, I focused on badminton and tennis, competing at elite levels while maintaining a strong connection to track through coaching and mentorship.
Today, I serve as a Badminton Coach and Trainer for the Ghana national team, leveraging my experience to develop emerging talent. My competitive journey includes representing Ghana at prestigious international events such as the 2022 Commonwealth Games, 2024 All African Games, Olympic qualifiers, and multiple continental championships worldwide.
First Impressions
I was first introduced to competitive badminton during the 2011 Ghana University Sports Association (GUSA) Games, held in Kumasi, Ghana. This event marked my early exposure to the sport at a high level.
As a tennis and table tennis player, what struck me most about badminton when I first saw it was its resemblance to other racket sports, particularly tennis. The familiar use of a racket, the strategic gameplay, and the fast-paced nature of the sport immediately drew my interest. While the equipment and court dimensions differed, the core elements of agility, precision, and tactical play felt like a natural extension of my skills, sparking my curiosity and enthusiasm.
Relationship with Badminton
Since my introduction to badminton, the sport has become my primary passion and focus. Over the years, I have competed at a high level, won medals, and badminton has grown from a personal pursuit to a professional commitment. Today, I am proud to serve as a coach for the Ghana national team, where I train and mentor the next generation of players.
Memorable Moments
One of my most memorable moments was winning the University Badminton Championship on my first attempt, despite it being my initial foray into the sport.
Through badminton, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and interacting with established players, many of whom have played a pivotal role in shaping and refining my game. Their guidance and mentorship have been invaluable to my growth as both a player and a coach.
Another highlight of my journey was the honour of coaching the Ghana national team at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. This experience deepened my connection to the sport and allowed me to contribute to the development of talented athletes on an international stage.
Developing Badminton in the Community
Developing badminton was a challenging yet rewarding journey. Initially, the lack of infrastructure and limited interest in the sport posed significant hurdles. I invested my personal resources to acquire rackets and set up makeshift courts in open spaces near my residence. I also worked to spark interest and motivate potential players, often starting with basic equipment like used rackets and shuttles.
My first group of players trained in open-air conditions, but their dedication and enthusiasm were unwavering. Over time, I was able to guide and nurture these players, helping them achieve success at the secondary school competition level. Witnessing their growth and accomplishments has been incredibly fulfilling, and it has reinforced my belief in the transformative power of sports.
Impact of Shuttle Time
Shuttle Time has made a significant impact in my region by providing structured training programmes and fostering connections between players and coaches. The initiative has played a crucial role in developing the game in Ghana, offering access to quality resources, coaching techniques, and organised activities. Through Shuttle Time, players have gained foundational skills, while coaches like myself have been equipped with the tools to effectively teach and promote the sport. This has not only elevated the standard of badminton but also increased participation and interest at the grassroots level.
Lessons From Shuttle Time
The biggest lesson I’ve learned from working with Shuttle Time is the importance of dedication, diligence, and recognising the unique differences among players. Every individual brings their own strengths, whether in mental focus, physical agility, or technical skill. This has taught me the value of tailoring training programmes to suit each player’s specific needs, ensuring they can perform at their optimum level. Shuttle Time has reinforced the idea that personalised coaching is key to unlocking a player’s full potential.
