Shuttle Time Tutor, Badminton Federation of Togo
Childhood Days
I spent my childhood in Sokodé, central Togo. It’s the stronghold of Togolese soccer and sport in general. Early on I loved playing soccer. Later, I decided to learn sports, so I went to the INJS (National Institute of Youth and Sports) and that’s where I discovered badminton in 2010.
Early Impressions
It’s the way it’s played, with no contact with the opponent. It’s fun but requires a lot of coordination and works the whole body.
Badminton has become my weekly activity. I like to get together with my athletes all the time, to learn and exchange about badminton. I also have friends with whom I share badminton experiences.
Memorable Events
I became Togo champion for two successive years and had the chance to play against African champion Edwin Ekiring of Uganda at the 2016 Ivory Coast International. I became friends with athletes, coaches and presidents of badminton federations from other countries. I been to competitions in various countries and experience their hospitality. I’ve learned a lot through badminton, and it’s given me a lot of new knowledge.
What Badminton Means
It’s a sport that’s part of my daily life. I’m sharing my little experience and knowledge of this sport wherever I am, so that it can be practiced everywhere and become the most popular sport in my country.
Badminton is played with respect, intelligence and strategy. It develops physical skills and coordination. There are more opportunities in all areas of this sport.
Developing Badminton in the Community
I’m a PE and sports teacher in my country, and this has enabled me to take advantage of sports events organised by the city where I’m working. I introduced badminton in the school where I’m teaching, and this has enabled me to set up a badminton club at the school. The local authorities often come at weekends to play, and everyone is interested in badminton in my city. We organise tournaments during holidays.
Impact of Shuttle Time
After Shuttle Time training, teachers get back to their schools with enthusiasm to introduce the children to badminton. Children and adults are attracted to the game. You only have to let them touch the racket and shuttlecock, and it becomes an obsession.
