The meetings were productive and I am confident that Badminton BC's key volunteers (and representatives of the Badminton BC Membership) have the appropriate direction to continue working on their respective programs during my short break.
More importantly, and the reason that I am posting this message, is because I was approached by some Badminton BC Members who were not only displaying their mutual passion for the game through their attendance as a competitor of the tournament, volunteer on the event organizing committee, and/or spectator of the event, but they also took the time to provide me with their observations of the direction that our sport is taking within BC. It was great to hear this outpouring of dialogue (that I feel has been lacking in my previous years with Badminton BC) and I thank each person who took the time to share their opinions with me.
I gathered suggestions on Badminton BC Membership fees, regional access to badminton equipment and services, club and facility affiliation with Badminton BC, and tournament processes that Badminton BC can help with (and ones we can afford to move away from). Each conversation was valuable and Badminton BC encourages this type of feedback. With continued and constructive communication on how to make Badminton BC better, we are on our way to drive change within our organization.
Badminton BC is currently finalizing our new governance model and taking steps to address our interim staffing situation. As we make these changes, we hope to continue to enhance the way that we serve the badminton community, so please, keep the feedback coming. If you are presented with an opportunity to provide your direct opinion on an issue that Badminton BC is facing, I encourage you to take full advantage and help us continue to gain momentum as we strive to effectively address all items concerning our Membership that fall within the scope of our organization. If you see Badminton BC staff or Board Members at the next event that you attend, please feel free to share your ideas and opinions with them. In the absence of the aforementioned opportunities, please contact my office at 604-333-3599 or philw@badmintonbc.com.
Congratulations to the competitors, volunteers, officials, tournament organizer, and the host facility on a successfully run Badminton BC sanctioned tournament and thank you for creating the opportunity for the badminton community to come together.
Phil Weier
Acting Executive Director - Technical & Programs
Badminton BC