BA of E - Villain or Hero?
Author: Rahul Padhiar
Date: 04 Jan 2002
Category: Articles
In a recent edition of 'Badminton' magazine, Clive Ellames, BA of E Director of Development, discusses why he thinks badminton is on the decline in England. The decline of badminton... always a much talked about subject. But who is to blame, if anyone? The cosy, village hall atmosphere is a distant memory now replaced by the modern commercialised leisure centre (no more sandwiches and tea between games!). The BA of E suggest that we should reach out to schools and local communities to embrace badminton and create a unified attitude. Surely the emphasis here is on the BA of E to influence the schools and local communities, forming guidelines for the best approach. Admittedly, the BA of E have taken the first step towards a solution by admitting it's their "own fault". The article acknowledges a national project, looking at the development of clubs, which is currently being piloted. Until this gets past the typical bureaucracy seen in the ivory towers at the BA of E; this activity means nothing to you, the badminton player. The BA of E has very little influence over leagues, clubs or individuals. A situation that has formed over many years and is due to lack of direction, commercial ineptitude and a tendency to decide everything 'by committee'. Only recently did badminton legend, Morten Frost, lead a scathing attack on the ineffectiveness of Badminton Authorities, particularly the IBF. Morten believes such incompetence has put badminton behind other sports in terms of media exposure, revenues and general interest in the game. Perhaps the BA of E should take a long, hard look at itself and try to accept responsibility for the future of our sport instead of putting the responsibility on others. This is no easy task and it will take a coordinated effort from all parties involved, but as leaders of the badminton community in the England, surely the BA of E should take up the baton and lead from the front.
