Botswana Badminton Association
I am the last of nine children. I grew up in a poor family. I have always been determined to change my status through education. I am currently a university graduate with a Master’s Degree in Development Practice (MDP).
Tryst With Badminton
I first came across badminton at secondary school at the age of 14. What struck me was the equipment, the court. I never imagined the amount of energy required for the sport. Initially I thought badminton was a sport for lazy people. I never thought it required a lot of agility and speed. During training our coach told us that badminton is the world’s fastest sport. I couldn’t believe it until after I did my own research. That information motivated me to work hard.
I have a sweet relationship with the sport from being an athlete (though never elite) and as a coach. Badminton has exposed me to a lot of training that taught me to be patient, accommodative, resilient and to be decisive in difficult situations. My international exposure as a coach introduced me to different cultures and different coaching philosophies.
Memorable Events
My highlight in badminton was in 2016 when I led Botswana’s team to Pretoria, South Africa, to Schools Championships and got a bronze medal. The other memory I have was my introduction to Shuttle Time in 2012 in Gaborone, Botswana. I could not imagine badminton being played by children as young as 6. Shuttle Time equipment (use of balloons) was a “wow” moment for me.
What Badminton Means
Badminton is now a way of life for me. It is part of my culture now.
It is a game that requires intelligence. Because it is the world’s fastest sport it needs the highest agility decision making.
Developing Badminton in the Community
It is one of the most difficult yet fun sports. People are used to outdoor sports and they view badminton as a sport for lazy people. Many parents would prefer their children to play soccer, netball, tennis etc. It takes time to lure players into badminton but once they start they enjoy.
Impact of Shuttle Time
It is gradually making an impact. More people have now been exposed to the game. It has been introduced in primary schools.
Shuttle Time instruction is way too different from coaching. At a young age, children are very fragile and as such they need to be handled with care. Shuttle Time provides a strong and solid base for coaching. It becomes easier for coaches to teach children who have been nurtured through Shuttle Time.
