Badminton a family affair at Waiouru

Ruapehu Bulletin, 8 September 1992, Page 14

Badminton a family affair at Waiouru

BY

JAN

SAVELL

Badminton players are a friendly bunch in the Waimarino region and the Waiouru club is no exception. When a team withdrew from the interclub competition on the weekend Waiouru players Ned Wanoa, Jenny FindlayIves, and Nigel Shields combined with other "spare" players to make up a team. "We don't want any team to have a bye" said Waiouru club secretary Shirley Shields. "We've all got to dance at night so we make sure everyone will be tired together". Shirley plays for the Wanganui Masters team which placed 2nd in the North Island competition. She chose to stay with Waiouru although Ohakune is presently the most successful club in the region. "This year Waiouru affiliated with Wanganui. This means players are now entitled to participate in open tournaments and representative competitions throughout New Zealand". Waiouru also has a superb facility in the Army's gymnasium which attracts Raetihi and Ohakune players on their regular Thursday club nights.

Shirley stressed the importance placed on opportunities for junior players. Play starts at 6.30pm and juniors have preference for court space before 8.00pm. Shirley's own daughter Tania is testimony to the success of this policy. Ten year old Tania Shields was invited to join the training squad for the 1992 Wanganui junior team. She was not selected for the team but did manage to play in the New Zealand Junior Tournament. Wairarapa asked her after they had a drop out - and they beat the Wanganui Under-14 team! "There is a lot available for juniors but often the parents are not always aware of it" Shirley said. "You have got to decide how much you're going to do for your sport. We are happy for Tania to continue as long as she is still enjoying it". At Waiouru badminton club the emphasis is on enjoyment whatever the level. Interclub is played with Wanganui and Waimarino teams at Ohakune on Sundays. New members, young or adult, are welcomed to the Thursday clubnight. Telephone Shirley (3876536) for more information.