This was my second visit to Samoa.I had quite a busy schedule visiting 10 primary schools twice in a two week period. The difference was this time all my coaching would be done outside on either the play ground or feild. Most days were very hot over 30 degrees and 80% humidity and we had quite strong winds, so its not hard to imagine how hard it was to introduce badminton to all these very keen and interested school children. Most classes had at least 50 players wanting to learn but one or two schools landed me with 150 children in one go. A challenge but also quite amusing. We managed to save most of the equipment, but i did send a few up onto the roof to rescue my shuttles when the wind blew them up there. Badminton has not been promoted in Samoa for a year or two, so all children were very keen to learn. It was difficult so see the level of play with the conditions but all the keen ones were offered a junior club to attend and also senior club on in the evening. With more regular visits and good support from the more regular players hopefully these visits will be the start for a few top Samoan players. Thanks to Rasela for her organisation with the schools
Last Modified on 17/02/2005 22:42