From the 18th – 24th January COMEBA held a training camp in Gibraltar supported by Badminton Europe and organised by the Gibraltar Badminton Association.
Mike Woodward from England was appointed by Badminton Europe to lead the training sessions. All levels from beginners to more experienced players plus junior and senior teams received the respective training. Visits at schools were also part of the project.
About 3 different teams were coached each day. All together 47 players and 6 coaches were involved in this initiative, varying in age from 7 up to around 40. There were up to 4 different groups each had 3 - 5 sessions throughout the week.
The emphasis of the week was laid on the technical development of the junior players. Sessions involved various aspects of technical elements in racket- and foot-work, with various activities and conditioned games aimed at reinforcing the skills learnt.
The week provided all junior players with a high level of coaching and training to further develop their game. This involved specific coaching as well as activities. This was also valuable to the coaches who were able to absorb a lot of information.
The main aspect of Gibraltar organising this camp was to develop their young players and coaches and to formulate a development plan for the immediate future. Therefore they held a meeting at the
end of the camp with Mike Woodward provided advice on the best way ahead. A report has been prepared with a clear instruction for the direction of the future training and development of Gibraltar’s junior players and Badminton development.
Badminton Europe looks forward to see badminton rising in popularity and the player’s level increasing one of the smallest Member Associations.