The Jamaica Badminton Association (JBA) proudly announces the launch of Badminton Month, kicking off with the first-ever Jamaica Badminton Sport Summit on November 9, 2024.

This summit, designed to elevate the performance and knowledge of Jamaica’s aspiring athletes, will set the stage for a month filled with competitive events and educational initiatives aimed at advancing badminton at all levels in Jamaica.

JBA President Vishwanauth Tolan explained the driving force behind the summit, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to athlete development that goes beyond the game itself.

“It’s the first time we are hosting a summit like this. We’ve recognized that many of our athletes lack critical knowledge about the pathways necessary for reaching elite status. Often, young Jamaican players compete well at ages 12 to 14, but by 18, their regional counterparts have taken a different development path that includes essential aspects like brand building, physical and mental preparation, and understanding their roles in the sport,” Tolan said.

He highlighted that the gap between Jamaican athletes and their international peers stems partly from limited awareness among players, coaches, and parents.

“Parents may not realize the level of commitment and strategy required if their child is to become elite. The journey involves more than just weekly practice. For Jamaica to have a competitive presence internationally, we need a comprehensive approach that includes stakeholder support,” he added.

The summit will address critical areas of athlete development, featuring expert-led panel discussions on topics such as personal branding, physical conditioning, and the unique roles of coaches, managers, and family.

Among the featured speakers are Bruce James, who will provide insights into the role of an agent, and Owen Hill, who transformed the Jamaican Premier League, demonstrating how brand-building can attract sponsors.

Romone Robinson, social media influencer, entrepreneur, and former Jamaica national badminton player, and Dr. Patrice Simmonds will also engage participants.

Key sessions at the summit include: “Brand You: Crafting Your Legacy beyond the Field” – Focused on personal branding and social media strategy to enhance athlete visibility.

“Mind and Muscle: Fueling the Champion Within”– Addressing the interconnectedness of mental strength, nutrition, injury prevention, and peak performance.

“Mastering Your Role on the Elite Pathway” – A roadmap for athletes, coaches, agents, and family members to collaboratively build a winning strategy for success.

Jamaican discus silver medalist Fedric Dacres will join the “Mind and Muscle” panel, sharing his personal experiences on the significance of mental toughness and physical conditioning for achieving elite status.

The summit marks the start of an exciting Badminton Month, followed by the All Jamaica National Junior Championships from November 16-17. The All Jamaica National Junior and Open Championships will take place on November 23-24, and the inaugural Super Series Final on December 1, providing athletes at all levels an opportunity to showcase their skills and compete against top talent.

As Jamaica’s official governing body for badminton, the JBA has long been committed to growing the sport and nurturing athletes who aspire to represent Jamaica internationally.

Through initiatives like the Jamaica Badminton Sport Summit, the JBA aims to build a solid foundation for Jamaica’s future stars, positioning the nation as a key competitor on the regional and global badminton stage.