Great report Suzanne!
I feel the same way as you about the All Englands.
It is the Badminton world’s Wimbledon of Tennis
This tournament is where all of the very best players in the world are desperate to win this Trophy.
I feel very lucky that this prestigious event is held in England.
To be selected is real pleasure for me,and fills me with pride to work with and be a part of our fabulous Line Judging Team.
This is indeed very sad news. I first met Dr John B Alexander in 1989, where I asked for his help to Line Judge at the All England, Wembley Arena in London. He was very helpful, and I worked with him for 5 years when I first line judged.
He was a strict manager, but a very kind man, and I was honoured to see him again a few years ago, and he remembered me, even after 20 plus years.
RIP John.
It was a pleasure working with John he was very dedicated to badminton, I remember our first meeting in Milton Keynes in a pub to form the association. John just asked for volunteers for the Secretary, Keith Lindsay. Treasurer Margaret Redfern and John was the Chairman that was the start of our association, The bank account was opened with 38 members paying £5 on 26th February 1996.
So thank you John for your dedication which has been passed on to us to keep the association going from strength to strength. A dear friend . RIP
I first met Dr. John Alexander when he selected me to attend the All England Championships probably 2010. He was well known for his lengthy, thorough briefings.
I also remember him for being for kind and genuine.
I met John through my late husband Allan, who was a member of John’s line judging team when I was volunteering as a steward. John needed somebody to help with getting game numbers and nameboards prepared for the line judges to take on to court with them, this was before the days of digital scoreboards, so I changed allegiance! Thoroughly enjoyed working with John at the All England and also once at Lancashire County championships at Ribby Hall. His dedication to badminton was remarkable. I remember one time at the AE, on the Saturday morning John went back to Manchester to sort out a problem we were having with the scoring cubes – long-standing members will know what I mean! He was back and we were up and running in time for the semi-finals. He also made the players’ name-boards mentioned above, with the router he used to cut them sharing his “office” at the NIA with all the paraphernalia he brought with him to make the team work. He even let me use his laptop, which at the time was a great privilege as there weren’t very many of them about. Thank you John for making my All England experiences so enjoyable and for your kindness to me over the years.
Anne Spencer 26/03/2021..
I met John in 1982 when he took over the job of Manageer of Line judges. He was a very clever shy guy who was, as others also say , dedicated to the sport. I worked as a score board operator , then a line judge and then as a court steward until I decided it was time to retire in about 2014. .
When the BLJA was formed I became one of the original committee members and during the passing years many changes for the better came about many of which were down to Johns quiet efforts behind the scenes!
Thank you John for your contribution to Badminton – I’ll miss my Christmas cards from you!!
God go with you – rest in peace .
Mavis Bryan
I first met John at the 1993 World Championships in Birmingham. I had been recruited in a hotel swimming pool by Geoff Rofe who asked if I had volunteered, I asked what they needed, the reply was “We really need line judges and I have seen you line judge at friendly internationals”. An hour later John Gowers stuck a volunteer form in my hand and much to my surprise I was accepted. First day and I was so nervous, everyone else seemed to be very experienced – I had visions of doing everything wrong. Dr John was so kind and that was the start of our friendship. This was a true friendship; we didn’t always agree but we could respect each other’s point of view. John had a lovely sense of humour and a very generous nature. John’s dedication to Badminton was fantastic and untiring. R.I.P.
I first met John at Wembley in the early 90’s and had a first taste of officiating as a scoreboard operator then as a Line Judge. I will always remember as Marilyn has said, John would be responsible for making the name boards and sticking them on with Blue Tack. On the funny side, sometimes during a match one of the name boards would come unstuck and drop off and have to be refitted.
As Suzanne has mentioned John will also be remembered for his extensive LJ briefings with sometimes most of the briefing being dedicated to talking about the problems with generating the name boards or other problems which gave everyone an insight how much work was going on behind the scenes.
Johns contribution to Badminton and also giving the opportunity for many Line Judges to attend major events remains a lasting tribute to him.
Thank You for all you done over the years for our sport. RIP John
Since I have known Margaret she has always been dedicated to Badminton in officiating as an Umpire, Line Judge and a dedicated supporter of Para Badminton which she is passionate about.The workload Margaret carries out for the association can sometimes be similar to having a full time job
I remember a couple of occasions when I was Line Judging with Margaret on the same team with me being in front in the line up however this may have been the first time that I had to experience a forced “Social Distancing”. LOL
Keep going Margaret your input to our sport and association is greatly appreciated.
Mavis Bryan
Many Congratulations Margaret, your contribution to our Association has been outstanding in so many ways, from the humble beginnings when we had to boost our finances with the raffles at the All England Championships through the fight to get grants and sponsorship, every battle won just adding to your workload. You took it all in your stride. Your dedication did. not end there, Abby has mentioned many of these in your citation but I would like to add my thanks for the encouragement you gave to young members and finally for your friendship and all the laughter we shared along the way.
I’ve only been a line judge for a handful of years and don’t know Margaret as well as many of the members, but I’ve had first hand experience of not only what an asset she is to our Association, but what kind of person she is as well.
A couple of years ago I had been selected to go to Denmark, my first overseas tournament and something I was very much looking forward to. Sadly, a couple of weeks before, there was a personal tragedy in my then partners family and I didn’t feel it appropriate to leave her and her children at such an emotional time.
I was obviously disappointed not to be going to Denmark but also aware of how close to the event I was having to back out.
Margaret made me feel very comfortable with this, took care of notifying the Danish Association and took everything out of my hands in terms of anything that needed to be done. It was a real weight lifted at a difficult time and certainly something I won’t forget.
I’m sure there are more spectacular stories around Margaret over the years, but on a personal note this is something I will always thank Margaret for. Congrats on our recognition Margaret. Well deserved.
Margaret I was very pleased to see you receive Hon Life Membership at the AGM. You have worked tirelessly for the Association over many years and this recognition is well deserved.
What I remember about those crazy few years working with John as our leader. The ‘tiny room’ that he had to work how he managed I do not know! His fridge(!}, blue tac, yellow score boards, and everything else besides. Getting us to stand in height order when the silverware was presented to the winners, ( in those days we could – John’s idea). His meetings so early!!. The day the key to his room got lost. (Us oldies will remember that one).
But I always remember John would look after us, made sure that we were ok and fought our corner.
Thanks John for everyone you did.
Rest in peace
Congratulations to Kate and Suzanne, on an outstanding achievement in getting all things Line Judge related so correct, precise and successful.
As members we are lucky to have such great leaders in our team, who are willing to put so much of their time into getting things right and accurate, and making the line judges lives easier, so they can focus on going out their and doing the business on court.
Well done Margaret. I have always wondered how you managed to keep going all these years in what I consider to be the most difficult post on a committee. You have shown incredible dedication to the Association and badminton in general. Your love of parabadminton has been plain to everyone and you have done some great work in helping to raise its profile. We have had some fun times at events including overseas ones. The last was in Austria where we had an enjoyable time sharing a room. This is a well deserved award and I am glad to know that you won’t have to collect your own fees anymore.
This is truly a well deserved recognition, Margaret ! Heartfelt Congratulations ! I may add that you are renowned well over the UK (or should I say Welsh ?) borders, and for many line judges (and umpires) across Europe, your name is forever linked to the All England event …
From Kaushik Raja:
“It’s the best ever present awarded to the most well deserved and a worthy winner of all time. Margaret well and truly deserved such an accolade for an invaluable contribution to the association over the years. I wish her all the very best for her future career years ahead with the association”.
Margaret
This is a truly deserved recognition for your tireless effort over the years congratulations are definitely in order.You have shown commitment over and above the requirements. You deal with people with friendship, compassion and empathy.
I am please to know you as my friend.
Beat wishes
Andy x
Carol those were special memories to look back on that room was a disaster area but he knew where everything was.
I remember cleaning up for him on many occasions BUT there was always food and drink if anyone need it.
Also we were invited to a barbecue at John’s house one year endless food, he was special and very very clever.
A big thank you and congratulations are in order for a great team.
Kate and Suzanne, You genuinely did a truly spectacular Job.
Between you, in the middle of a pandemic you managed to pull off the most unusual AE competition our organisation has ever had to contend with.
In your own inimitable way, you managed to fend off and deal with what ever was required for a seamless tournament.
Covid protocols, and delayed test results, last minute change requests on procedures were still briefed efficiently and the teams of line judges, even though in isolation, were under no illusion what, when and where their responsibilities lay.
Malcolm Banham summed it up in his thanks and emotional final brief on Finals day, When he brought the Umpires to us to applaud our effort and show that we are One Team.
From a personal point of view. I am very proud to be a member of our team.
Once again thank you for the tremendous amount of work that you put in over the whole of last year to make the AE happen.
Thank you Anne once again another wonderful newsletter. You evidently put a lot of time in presenting the association with such fantastic reading and information. Thank you again it is greatly appreciated.
What a great read, yet again. Thank you to all contributors and to Anne for putting it together. Really enjoyed reading about how the AE finally came together and the trials and tribulations.
Congratulations to Margaret Redfern on her Life Membership. Thoroughly deserved.
Just finished reading the news letter. Margaret’s achievements are amazing. I was one of the volunteers for the Para Badminton World Championships 2015. After 2 days training I started line judging. Wish I done it sooner.
Well done Anne, I just love reading about the early days of line judging.
John Miskin
Hi Vicky. Got an email from badminton england asking for volunteers for this. Should I complete or wait to hear from you specifically about line judges?
Best wishes
Craig
Hello Ladies
I have completed the form and sent it.
Hope you have received it and please kindly consider giving me the opportunity to line judge.
I shall make a concerted effort to do my utmost level best to do line judging at the best of my ability and know-how.
Thank you for your kind and sympathetic consideration.
Hi Abby
I realised that I just forgot to mention that I am still on crutches since I had a major Right Hip Bone surgery a result of a fall at work.
However, I may or may not be on crutches on the day of the Senior Gold Tournament.
I thought that I should inform you, so that you are aware, though I would still love to line judge.
Thank you for your support.
Hi Suzanne and Mike
I’m sorry but at present I am unavailable for this one as I hope to be reunited with my son his wife and my 2 grandsons. they are hoping to fly into Heathrow from Germany that week… Fingers crossed as all depends on Covid restrictions.
I hope all goes well with the Nationals…Good luck. see you soon
I would like to line judge at the above mentioned Tournament.
I am on the crutches at the moment as a result of a fall at work causing a broken right hip bone injury.
However, I may or may not be off the crutches on the days of the Tournament.
NB: Hopefully, I hope with gods grace I am off them and able to participate, and will do my utmost level best to line judge to the best of my ability and knowhow.
You cannot apply to be a Line Judge using Comments to a Post, you have to fill in the Application Form and in the Comments field, provide additional information.
Hi, I have had issues on here please can you let me know if you had my first request to add me on for the interest for the Nationals. I did this few weeks ago, I have not had acknowledgment, thanks and regards Rajesh Rahul
Hello Abby
I hope you are well and safe.
I thought I should inform you that although I have started my physio sessions, I don’t think I should risk taking part in the tournament.
My sincere apologies for any inconvenience caused.
Thank you so much for your support.
Regards
KR
Hi Vicky,
This is Srinivas Parthasarathy, I am one of the Line Judge. I am not sure if I had put my name forward. Can you please check and let me know if I am in the Mix? if not, can I put my name forward.
I have known Rizvan for over 10 years, and he was a very knowledgeable and genuine gentleman.
He had a great sense of humor, a person I called my friend and my elder brother, I will miss him a lot.
Still quite shocked by this sudden loss, as I saw him 2 weeks ago at the Nationals, where he looked well, and was his usual joking self.
God bless and RIP mota bhai
Ahh Rizzy – what a lovely man you were. We had many many laughs over the years. He will be sorely missed by all in the badminton world. My condolences to his family with hope that smiles will be back eventually when all those happy memories come to mind.
I was deeply shocked to hear the sad news about Rizvan. I have known him for around 28 years through Line Judging and have found him to be a kind hearted person who would always want to help out where he could. He was a person who had a deep love for the sport of Badminton and was always keen to assist in the Training programme from the early days and will be greatly missed.
RIP Rizvan. It has been a pleasure to know you and thank you for the service you have given to our sport.
Gerry Lewcock
National Training Co-ordinator
Badminton Line Judges Association of England
My deepest condolescences to the entire family. I pray the Lords Peace and Hope and Faith during this tough time. What a great guy Rizvan was! He would have me in stitches. You will be greatly missed my friend!!
This is such a lovely, friendly event – I know Scotland really need our help with numbers to make sure the event runs, so please consider putting yourselves forward!
The CE’s rise and fall was way too heavily involved with the rise and fall of the Adcocks
No other players received that kind of support
Thank goodness they are all gone and a new era can begin
Brussy famous Did !!!!! You !!!! Do !!!!! Well !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! well done all of you , at lest you were on TV I am looking forward to see how Tim Andrew, Anne and Simon give answer Vow.
Can you please confirm the date of this event. The screen that displays the Event Announcement is dated 12 November 2021. The screen that displays Current Event Requests is dated 12 December 2021.
I’m slightly confused in that it’s not immediately clear to me if you are asking for “Expressions of Interest” for any of the Oversea’s Tournaments listed above … {especially as none of them seem to be currently listed on the ‘Current Events Page’}?? In my case I’d be VERY interested in applying for the Thomas/Uber Cup Finals in Bangkok! … {Covid conditions permitting, etc}.
This list is only FYI.
If and when we get any invitations, the announcement and request for LJ will be done through the normal process, at the time accordingly.
You cannot apply for an event by making a comment on a Post.
If you read the Post carefully, it tells you to go to the Current LJ Requests page, and the click the Volunteer button next to the event you are interested in:
-> https://bljae.org/lj-requests
Yep, another good read … {and not just the article I wrote, lol}. One thing for Himanshu : Abby wrote this in his piece : “We now have a list of confirmed national events
to May 2022 (see the BLJAofE website)”. Are we due an update soon maybe early in the new year??
Well done to all on the committee. In spite of all the restrictions you have had fabulous year and managed to put on a number of events ibckuding the All Englands congratulations to all.
I wish everyone everybody a happy new year and all the very best for 2022.
Thank you all for your very kind responses. We do appreciate the feedback. The All England is again proving to be challenging because of the current situation. However, we look forward to the summer and the Commonwealth Games. My personal thanks to the organisers of these 2 events, and also to all the other Committee members, who are all working hard to keep the Association moving forward.
Abby Kumar, President
I agree with Margaret we have some really good new LJs who would benefit from being selected for Semi’s and finals. I believe Kate has this sorted.
On the recruitment front can we ask BE if we could have an opportunity to have a recruitment stall in the foyer for AE. I’m sure we could use a training video for people to make the call
We can only select people for semi / finals if they express an interest in doing them. Many dont put their names forward as there is alot of waiting around for few mstches or would prefer to have the weekend with their families.
In my report I have highlighted the need for organising training courses in areas where future major events will be held. I discussed the matter with Kate yesterday. Two such areas are Sheffield, where the International Para event will be held in 2023, and Birmingham, where the All England Juniors will (hopefully) become an annual event from 2023. I will contact Mark Downie to ask for a Zoom meeting asap with Kate and myself to discuss what help BE can give us. I will suggest that they ask Regional Officers to help with recruitment.
Kate suggested that we contact the umpires association to enquire whether it would it would be possible for them to advise those who didn’t pass the umpire course to contact the BLJAofE if they wished to try another line of officiating. I will contact Martin Davis and Ian Collett to discuss this.
This is such an important topic and one where we really must take some action. The umpires are in a similar position, albeit very slightly ahead of us in taking some action to address the issue, and it’s worth reading across to what they have been doing, either to learn what might work, or even to join forces where appropriate.
As this topic has been raised, I think we should keep the momentum up and try and organise a short Zoom discussion specifically covering this area (say 30 mins one evening?) for those who have some ideas and/or want to get involved
Congratulations to all concerned.
Having seen you all progress so much over the past few years, I am very glad to see your efforts and skills being rewarded.
See you soon!
Very sorry to read this post but, more importantly, really hope everything is OK with Martin – lovely man
I wish him all the very best in his future endeavours
Kathleen Cashmore
Many thanks to Martin for his dedication to the role of secretary over the last 5 years. He will be a tough act to follow. Is the Committee aware, from e.g. his resignation e-mail, of any particular issues or concerns about how BLJAE operates which might have caused him to take this decision?. Having spoken to him at the Hampshire senior Gold tournament last Sunday, prior to his resignation, I’m aware that he is also very busy with his other sporting commitments (tennis & football).
It’s too late for me no doubt, and I understand that the age limit is a BWF thing not BLJofE, but such an arbitrary age limit is illegal in English law, certainly in the context of employment. It seems to me that a court would conclude it is also illegal for volunteer positions. There is a well organised assessment process for line judges. This would provide an objective and legally and morally defensible filter to weed out any line judges without the right competences. I believe at the very least this argument should be put to BWF . They might change their mind but at the very least they should be asked to justify this arbitrary, discriminatory age limit.
A lovely gentleman, who I became good friends with as we did the same LJ Training Course in October 2012, and we both loved our gadgets.
I shared many AE and other tournaments with him, always a great pleasure to see Kong.
I was sorry to see him leave us for the USA, and now he is no longer with us, I miss him even more 🙁
I know his laughter and infectious smile will be missed by all the LJs & Umpires that knew him.
RIP my dear friend, you left us far too early!
Very saddened and shocked to hear the sad news about Kong especially as he was a still relatively young person. . He was trained by myself and Abby at Wimbledon in 2012 and went on to attend many events as described by Abby and became a valued member of our Line Judge family..
I will miss my chats and laughs with him which we had when we met at events as he was a very likable and easy going person and always greeted you with a smile.. On the professional side, he had a doctorate in Computer Science so we would also enjoy our in depth technical chats on occasions.
It was a pleasure to have known Kong and he will be greatly missed by all that have known him.
R.I.P. My Friend
Gerry
National Training Co-ordinator BLJA of E
I am so sad to hear of the passing of dear Kong, such a lovely man always smiling and laughing at my silly jokes and teasing. Always made the AEO fun place be. You are in my thoughts buddy, love goes out to the family, Rest up.
A great shock to hear Kong had passed away, he was the perfect gentleman and a delightful person to have as a friend.
Wonderful conversations.
I cannot believe it was 2019 when we sat together watching the finals of All England, that was the last time we met.
Rest in peace Kong you have left a lasting legacy behind you and inspired so many.
Sadly missed I will always remember your smile.
Good to see mention of Gill Gilks’ playing partner Margaret Beck in the article. I had forgotten that. Margaret of course is from West Cumbria. It seems that every now and again our sparsely populated northern county produces some star players, Lauren Smith being another. And in the men’s veteran game the evergreen Harry Shadwick!
So are my ‘apologies’ for not being able to attend which I sent in by email … but of course I accept the missing Chairperson’s Report is of greater importance, lol?!
Dear Friends, I am so overwhelmed by the responses received since Kate posted the news. Thank you all so much, I will treasure your kind comments. Badminton England have been very kind in voting me into this position, and I am delighted that I can continue to attend BE meetings and have a say in its administration. In recent years Kate has joined me in meetings with the BE CEO and Chairman, and we also work closely with Mark Downie and Chris Miller on major and national events. This is good for our Association, and it keeps us on BE’s radar. I know that we have sufficient talent in our committee for us to continue this close link with BE into the future. Thank you all so much. My best wishes to you, and your families, for a safe and healthy future.
Abby
I see that the BWF have upped the prize money to $1 million and Super 1000 status has also been granted to China, Indonesia and Malaysia. I’m guessing that they want to split the first round over two days to bring in extra revenue. But if they want to expand by having an extra round, Martin’s nightmare may become true.
Well done everyone, you all did all of us proud!. I wonder if anyone can help, if any of you who were at Birmingham have a spare polo shirt medium size, please could you consider sending it to me – I will of course pay postage
Yes i agree with all above. My thanks to the terrible trio of Vickty, Kate and Suzanne who ran the shop well. Good time had by all (except those in purgutory)
Hi Himanshu
Wow that is a comprehensive view of what happened in Birmingham.
I has a ball at the Commonwealth Games It was a pleasure to work and share with a great bunch of people.
I would have liked to say “ You missed a bit” but you didn’t. fab memories.
Well done .
Andy
No firm timings as yet Cheng, but I am working on 09.00 start and 16.00 finish. I am liaising with BE to get full details confirmed by end of Sept. I will get back to all those who have expressed an interest by that time.
Worth noting that the start date of TUESDAY 29th November is correct, i.e. just like the All England next year the Welsh Open is also on for an extra day, i.e. tournament scheduled to last 5 days, rather than the ‘usual’ 4.
Hi Kate can you send some details about line judging to Manjula, Nagraj and Tanvi to dr_manjoo@yahoo.com? There will probably be 3 of them. Also to Aparna maganty at aparnamaganty@gmail.com thanks
It has been a great pleasure working with you and for you over the years. Congratulations on your achievements with Badminton England with regards to the Line Judge and AE tournament itself for the last seven years. You will be a hard act to follow.
I hope you will still join us on the lines.
Thank you Kate, for all the years of hard work that you have put into making the All England Tournament a pleasurable experience for me. I really appreciate your efforts
It’s been fabulous working with you Kate as your deputy. I’ve learnt so much from you; not only about the event but about how to interact with our wonderful linejudges, the umpires and Referees and the BE staff.
Like Abby says, your work load would be starting about now, so you’ve got some time available to fulfil other ambitions. Enjoy your well deserved break.
Thank you.
Thank you Kate, for all the years of hard work that you have put into making the All England Tournament a pleasurable experience for me. I really appreciate your efforts. will miss you Kate.
Thank you
I remember when I did my first AE event I felt very nervous but on meeting Kate and her team at the venue I knew I would be okay, as Kate and team were approachable. I have attended the AE a few times now and I know everything is so well organised and a great event to attend.
Thanks for all your help over the years and will be missed.
Thanks again Kate
Kate , I know the stresses and I am extremely sorry you have made the decision to step down. I do hope that you will carry on as a line person. All the best and keep in touch.
Kate, many thanks for all your hard work and efforts over the last six years – we go back a lot longer than that. It has been a pleasure working with you. You made the All England a really worthwhile experience and I am sure many of us are grateful for that. I wish you well for the future.
Yonex were the ones developed and approved with BWF so i assume they are the ones that would be used in BWF approved events. The shuttles do look very much like feather ones.
Anne Morden
Having just seen both messages, I sorry to see that Kate cannot continue, but it must be an arduous and time consuming job dealing with Badminton England and organising the judges for this premier event. Thanks to both Abby and Sue for stepping up to manage the AE line judges at short notice.
Thanks for sharing the news letter. Interesting topic about the sustainability of shuttles. Glad to know that badminton world is thinking and putting things into motion to make this sport more sustainable and economical.
Change in right direction is good, although I agree on the point of difference in feel and trajectory. However if this change allows more clubs to survive and continue to play, it should be welcomed and promoted whole heartedly.
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Thank you all for your messages of support. As I mentioned, we are all working together to deliver a successful tournament. That is the aim of all of us. With such great support, especially from Kate and Suzanne, I know we can do it!
Thank you everyone for your kind words. It was a very difficult decision to make but I am still line judging, so I hope to see you all around the circuit soon. I wish Abby and Sue all the best for the 2023 All England, it’s a lot of hard work and stressful at times but I know you will deliver a great line judge experience at the All England next year.
This is a really generous bequest by John and reflects his tremendous commitment over so many years to Badminton, BA of E, and in particular our Association of Line Judges. Thank you, John and I am sure the money will be used wisely in his name.
I agree it was his idea, built and executed by him. just to start could we not have some title of this web site with his name and acknowledgement. Surely we could start by having something permanent to him.
Better late than never to respond but as usual great newsletter. Birmingham did look wonderful snd I said to myself while watching that I hoped it was better organised than Glasgow which Horace touched on in his report. I was in the player info area amid reams of unnecessary paperwork that no team ever collected, the food was awful and i never saw any live badminton. That said. GLASGOW made the hassle well worth it, i met some great folk and thanks to Davina we had a lovely place to stay!!
Could you please pass on my condolences , as Doug was a great friend of mine, he is quite local to me and have known him for a very long time.
By best wishes go to his family , his whit and companionship will be greatly missed.
I’ve known Doug for almost 30 years, having seen him each year at the All England in Birmingham and a few other events. Doug never had a bad word to say and it was a pleasure to know him.
Hi, so sorry to hear this sad news, could you please send condolences to his wife and family.
I also knew Doug and he had been to Scotland a few times, also at the AE too.
Very sad news. Please pass on my condolences to Doug’s family. I have known Doug for many years through the AE,Scottish and other events and shared some good times, he was very good company.
Such sad news, known Doug since the days of Wembley. He was a true gentleman, and a cheerful since of humour. Please pass on our condolences (from the Volunteers team @ the AE.)
Very sad news indeed, a real gentlemen with a unique sense of humour, and I spent many a time discussing technology and various line judge rules an behavior. I hope he RIP and my deepest condolences to his family.
I remember meeting Doug at my first ever tournament abroad in Basel, Switzerland where we shared a room. He was a regular visitor there and I think it was one of his favourite tournaments. In addition to the badminton. He was a lovely soft spoken gentleman. I too send my condolences to his widow and family. RIP Doug.
I too remember Doug being my room mate at the Swiss Open in Basel {March 2015} and yes, I think this tournament was one of his favourites! I also echo yours and all the other comments made to him being a really nice person and was sorry to hear the sad news of his passing. RIP Doug!
My deepest condolences on the loss of your dear husband Jim, I am sure your devotion and daily time with him went a long way in helping him feel your love and care, during his illness. Take care and you are in my thoughts, and of course Jim lives on in your and your families heart. Love Himanshu 🙏🏾
Margaret, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of you husband Jim. You are in my thought at this sad time. Deepest condolences for both you andy your family.xx
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year wishes to everyone. Thank you for welcoming me into this wonderful (with some lunatics 😀 ) community. I have had the privilege of line judging at 3 events this year since becoming a line judge, 1 national and 2 International events. Wealth of experience gained in these events with valuable feedback from peers, umpires and Referee’s.
Look forward to 2023!
Stay safe and enjoy the festivities!
Cheers
VK
Merry Christmas everyone, I hope to be back with you in 2023, after having to drop out of a few tournaments due to illness in 2022, but hey, onwards and upwards
I wholeheartedly back your chairperson as I have tried to pull back on my volunteering and even tried to retire , but I am having to volunteer to fill in the lack of attendance . Please support the association.
I will happily support the association when I’m either not at work or have nothing else going on. My only issue is that most of the events are over an hour away and as we don’t, unfortunately, get incentive such as petrol per mile it’s not, for most of the time, worth my drive to break even
Hi Old friend ,
I am so sorry to hear this, but I have been telling you that youi work too hard for a few years now. Please give my regards to your family and enjoy your now retirement. Do not act like me and return because you miss the companionship, stay resolute.
O Abby – you will be so missed. But it is completely understandable that family comes first. Thank you for all you have done over so many years. Always a true gentleman in both senses of the word!
Abby I will soooooooo….miss you…you have been such an inspiration and encouragement since day one and wont forget the love and support you have poured into my training and development, up to this point.
I wish you all the very best for the future
god bless you
Thank you, Abby for your unstinting service over so many years. Your commitment and passion has been second to none. I wish you peace and good health for you and your family.
Abby, you can look back at the extraordinary improvements to the Association and our welfare that you have contributed to over the years. Your flawless management of our team at the 2012 Olympics is one of the highlights not to be forgotten. I look forward to seeing you again at this year’s All England.
Dear Abby
I wish you and your family well for the future, and thank you for your support for the Association in general, but personal support in particular.
You were the one who gave me the chance to start my Line Judging career, I will always be grateful for that, for giving me the opportunity to meet some lovely people and be involved in something that I really enjoy – thank you and good luck
You are an absolute legend and a real credit to Badminton England!
You have conducted yourself par excellence that can only be emulated by others; never surpassed. Thank you for your encouragement and support over the years! Fantastic memories during the 2011 World Championships followed by the London 2012 Olympics – Wonderful memories walking along the Embankment; being entertained during matches. I will cherish the pictures taken together.
Take care and best wishes to you and your family.
At time of writing, parking at Redbridge Sports Centre costs £2.20 for the whole of Sunday opening hours. There is a wall-mounted tablet in the reception area. Payment is by credit or debit card only.
If arriving at the Forest Road entrance, drive past the first car park, past the indoor tennis hall and into the second car park. The badminton is being held in the Jean Brown Indoor Arena.
Dear friends, thank you so much for all the lovely messages. I can’t tell you how much they mean to me. Over the many years that I have been involved in officiating, it is the friendships I that I have made that I treasure most. Seeing my friends is always the most enjoyable part of attending an event. I will follow the Association’s progress closely and I wish it the very best for the future.
To all my dear friends, good luck, good health and enjoy the game!
Abby
Can you ‘register apologies’ here or is it still best done as an email to the Secretary?? I need to offer up ‘possible apologies’ as I’ll be on Line-Judging on BLJAE duties at the Semi Finals of the Polish Open … and may only be able to attend part{s} of the meeting … and that’s only if schedules/timings permit?! I’ll do my best though with a laptop in the Officials Room, etc?!
Hi,
It is just an idea . Could you not put the nomination date at the All England , it gives time for all attending the AE to have a chat and discuss the requirements from the experienced personnel. We all have phones and can express interest if they want.
My apology but i cannot attend the AGM. We (Berkshire old Age pensioners) have a county match at Kent on that day. We will be en route at this time . I trust the AGM goes well.
Am interested in this event but because of the distance, will switch to using the train. My interest has a caveat; if train strikes still exists I may have to pull out. Enjoyed the event in Dublin
Looks good but the announcement above leads to a couple of queries : 1 : Can you claim the 0.15p/mile if you are travelling by either Train and/or Coach?? … and 2 : Who’s doing the ‘pairing up’ for the Twin Rooms at the Ibis Styles??. I mean, we can’t really do it ourselves as we don’t know who’s actually been selected yet so can we assume the Line Judge Manager will do this and we can just put in our EOI’s on the BLJAE Website and the ‘Hotel Twins’ can be sorted out later??
I don’t know if the above comment is serious, or tongue in cheek – but I have never known of mileage being claimed or paid when travelling by train and/or coach, and I have made many claims for mileage when travelling by car – for work as well as other events. Whether you can claim expenses towards your coach or train tickets is something you will have to discuss
Also, I have never had a problem when being paired up with someone for hotel accommodation – if you don’t want to take your chances, then book your own accommodation.
I’m sorry, but Margaret and the team do a fantastic job and to give them more headaches is not fair on them
In past years I’ve received a payment of £15 ‘per journey’ in relation to Travel Expenses for getting to/from Birmingham for the All England on the coach/train. Thought occurs there might be something similar on offer for the Junior All England, which might even be ‘mileage based’?! Re ‘Hotels’ – I too have never had a problem being paired up with someone – but at the All England people do often make their own arrangements to ‘buddy up’ to save money – and I was just wondering how this MIGHT work if you don’t know who’s been selected until a few weeks before the event?? So I’d say these queries were proper ones rather than ‘tongue in cheek’ … and I’ll wait for Kate’s ‘official’ response?!
Abby and Sue thank you very much you made a good Line Judges team and I am very please of working under yours umbrella.
Great week well done both of you .
Yunus
Absolutely fantastic event and great organisation by Abby and Sue. Was glad to be a part of the team again this year. Thanks so much for the opportunity.
Thank you Abby & Sue for all the work and organisation you both put in to make this an extremely successful event for all concerned. It was a pleasure to participate again and to see some new faces from the training program performing well.
Many thanks to all my LJ colleagues for making the whole experience so fulfilling, but special thanks to both Abby and Sue for all your hard work in what must have been at times very trying circumstances, the total commitment from you both enabled us to make the Championships the success that they were – well done everyone, it was a real joy to be part of this fantastic team
Congratulations Abby for your fifty years volunteering and presenting the trophy to Ladies singles runner up.
Very nice to see Sue Storey and Mike Robinson at our briefing.
Great week thank you Abby and Sue.
I pretty much echo the same sentitment expressed by the rest. As a first timer for the event and with the line judging family, it was a very well organised and managed event from Line Judges perspective. Appreciate all your effort and co-ordination to make this as seameless as possible for me (and us).
Andrew 13.06 in Poland. Zoom crashed – appologies but can’t sign back in due to being on court for the Finals at 13.30 local time. Please pass on apologies to meeting if you see this. Regards, Andrew
Just to reiterate what Kevin & Dionne have already said , Big thank you to all that voted and looking forward to the next two years working with the committee
Just to note for those interested in possibly going to this that the world famous Calgary Stampede starts a couple of days before this tournament ends. That will mean flights and accommodation being somewhat more expensive than usual.
Absolutely fabulous news Abby. Well done. Well deserved. You have been such a blessing to me . Thanks again for all your encouragement !! Blessings to you for the future
Congratulations Abby. It is so well deserved for such a special person who offers himself tirelessly to Badminton, and also to all of us that work with you.
Dear friends, thank you so much for your really kind words. I was overwhelmed to read your lovely messages. Thank you all for appointing me as Hon Vice President of our Association, and I accept this as a great honour. The BLJAofE has been a huge part of my badminton life and this appointment will enable me to keep in touch with the affairs of the Association, and with all the great friends I have. Life continues to be busy for me in caring for my wife, and this appointment has been a wonderful morale booster for me.
Thank you my dear friends.
Very nice article, thanks Gloria
Thanks Gloria, sounds like despite the restrictions of this strange new world you had a good time.
Congratulations ladies. Well deserved selection following your hard work with the All England.
Nice one ladies. Like the Charlie’s Angels of line judging!!
Well done everyone, I’m in good company!!
Congratulations to Vicky Kate and Suzanne for your Commonwealth appointments. The badminton tournament is in safe hands
Great report Suzanne!
I feel the same way as you about the All Englands.
It is the Badminton world’s Wimbledon of Tennis
This tournament is where all of the very best players in the world are desperate to win this Trophy.
I feel very lucky that this prestigious event is held in England.
To be selected is real pleasure for me,and fills me with pride to work with and be a part of our fabulous Line Judging Team.
Did those who wear glasses find it problematic having to wear face masks in terms of ‘fogging up’?.
A number of the Line Judges had glasses and they did not find them fogging up.
This is indeed very sad news. I first met Dr John B Alexander in 1989, where I asked for his help to Line Judge at the All England, Wembley Arena in London. He was very helpful, and I worked with him for 5 years when I first line judged.
He was a strict manager, but a very kind man, and I was honoured to see him again a few years ago, and he remembered me, even after 20 plus years.
RIP John.
It was a pleasure working with John he was very dedicated to badminton, I remember our first meeting in Milton Keynes in a pub to form the association. John just asked for volunteers for the Secretary, Keith Lindsay. Treasurer Margaret Redfern and John was the Chairman that was the start of our association, The bank account was opened with 38 members paying £5 on 26th February 1996.
So thank you John for your dedication which has been passed on to us to keep the association going from strength to strength. A dear friend . RIP
I first met Dr. John Alexander when he selected me to attend the All England Championships probably 2010. He was well known for his lengthy, thorough briefings.
I also remember him for being for kind and genuine.
I met John through my late husband Allan, who was a member of John’s line judging team when I was volunteering as a steward. John needed somebody to help with getting game numbers and nameboards prepared for the line judges to take on to court with them, this was before the days of digital scoreboards, so I changed allegiance! Thoroughly enjoyed working with John at the All England and also once at Lancashire County championships at Ribby Hall. His dedication to badminton was remarkable. I remember one time at the AE, on the Saturday morning John went back to Manchester to sort out a problem we were having with the scoring cubes – long-standing members will know what I mean! He was back and we were up and running in time for the semi-finals. He also made the players’ name-boards mentioned above, with the router he used to cut them sharing his “office” at the NIA with all the paraphernalia he brought with him to make the team work. He even let me use his laptop, which at the time was a great privilege as there weren’t very many of them about. Thank you John for making my All England experiences so enjoyable and for your kindness to me over the years.
Anne Spencer 26/03/2021..
I met John in 1982 when he took over the job of Manageer of Line judges. He was a very clever shy guy who was, as others also say , dedicated to the sport. I worked as a score board operator , then a line judge and then as a court steward until I decided it was time to retire in about 2014. .
When the BLJA was formed I became one of the original committee members and during the passing years many changes for the better came about many of which were down to Johns quiet efforts behind the scenes!
Thank you John for your contribution to Badminton – I’ll miss my Christmas cards from you!!
God go with you – rest in peace .
Mavis Bryan
I first met John at the 1993 World Championships in Birmingham. I had been recruited in a hotel swimming pool by Geoff Rofe who asked if I had volunteered, I asked what they needed, the reply was “We really need line judges and I have seen you line judge at friendly internationals”. An hour later John Gowers stuck a volunteer form in my hand and much to my surprise I was accepted. First day and I was so nervous, everyone else seemed to be very experienced – I had visions of doing everything wrong. Dr John was so kind and that was the start of our friendship. This was a true friendship; we didn’t always agree but we could respect each other’s point of view. John had a lovely sense of humour and a very generous nature. John’s dedication to Badminton was fantastic and untiring. R.I.P.
I first met John at Wembley in the early 90’s and had a first taste of officiating as a scoreboard operator then as a Line Judge. I will always remember as Marilyn has said, John would be responsible for making the name boards and sticking them on with Blue Tack. On the funny side, sometimes during a match one of the name boards would come unstuck and drop off and have to be refitted.
As Suzanne has mentioned John will also be remembered for his extensive LJ briefings with sometimes most of the briefing being dedicated to talking about the problems with generating the name boards or other problems which gave everyone an insight how much work was going on behind the scenes.
Johns contribution to Badminton and also giving the opportunity for many Line Judges to attend major events remains a lasting tribute to him.
Thank You for all you done over the years for our sport. RIP John
Very much deserved. Thank you for all your hard work on behalf of myself and all members.
Many congratulations Margaret, a truly well deserved award for one of the major contributors to our association for such a long time.
Since I have known Margaret she has always been dedicated to Badminton in officiating as an Umpire, Line Judge and a dedicated supporter of Para Badminton which she is passionate about.The workload Margaret carries out for the association can sometimes be similar to having a full time job
I remember a couple of occasions when I was Line Judging with Margaret on the same team with me being in front in the line up however this may have been the first time that I had to experience a forced “Social Distancing”. LOL
Keep going Margaret your input to our sport and association is greatly appreciated.
Mavis Bryan
Many Congratulations Margaret, your contribution to our Association has been outstanding in so many ways, from the humble beginnings when we had to boost our finances with the raffles at the All England Championships through the fight to get grants and sponsorship, every battle won just adding to your workload. You took it all in your stride. Your dedication did. not end there, Abby has mentioned many of these in your citation but I would like to add my thanks for the encouragement you gave to young members and finally for your friendship and all the laughter we shared along the way.
I am pleased for you Margaret, an acknowledgement well deserved.
Anne Spencer.
A well deserved tribute to a lovely lady. Congratulations Margaret, I am so pleased for you
I’ve only been a line judge for a handful of years and don’t know Margaret as well as many of the members, but I’ve had first hand experience of not only what an asset she is to our Association, but what kind of person she is as well.
A couple of years ago I had been selected to go to Denmark, my first overseas tournament and something I was very much looking forward to. Sadly, a couple of weeks before, there was a personal tragedy in my then partners family and I didn’t feel it appropriate to leave her and her children at such an emotional time.
I was obviously disappointed not to be going to Denmark but also aware of how close to the event I was having to back out.
Margaret made me feel very comfortable with this, took care of notifying the Danish Association and took everything out of my hands in terms of anything that needed to be done. It was a real weight lifted at a difficult time and certainly something I won’t forget.
I’m sure there are more spectacular stories around Margaret over the years, but on a personal note this is something I will always thank Margaret for. Congrats on our recognition Margaret. Well deserved.
Margaret I was very pleased to see you receive Hon Life Membership at the AGM. You have worked tirelessly for the Association over many years and this recognition is well deserved.
What I remember about those crazy few years working with John as our leader. The ‘tiny room’ that he had to work how he managed I do not know! His fridge(!}, blue tac, yellow score boards, and everything else besides. Getting us to stand in height order when the silverware was presented to the winners, ( in those days we could – John’s idea). His meetings so early!!. The day the key to his room got lost. (Us oldies will remember that one).
But I always remember John would look after us, made sure that we were ok and fought our corner.
Thanks John for everyone you did.
Rest in peace
Congratulations to Kate and Suzanne, on an outstanding achievement in getting all things Line Judge related so correct, precise and successful.
As members we are lucky to have such great leaders in our team, who are willing to put so much of their time into getting things right and accurate, and making the line judges lives easier, so they can focus on going out their and doing the business on court.
Congratulations Margaret well deserved for all your hard work.
Congratulations Margaret. Thanks for all the time, dedication and energy you have contributed. A well-deserved award. Jan
Congratulations Margaret. A well deserved recognition for all hard work over past many years.
Well done Margaret. I have always wondered how you managed to keep going all these years in what I consider to be the most difficult post on a committee. You have shown incredible dedication to the Association and badminton in general. Your love of parabadminton has been plain to everyone and you have done some great work in helping to raise its profile. We have had some fun times at events including overseas ones. The last was in Austria where we had an enjoyable time sharing a room. This is a well deserved award and I am glad to know that you won’t have to collect your own fees anymore.
This is truly a well deserved recognition, Margaret ! Heartfelt Congratulations ! I may add that you are renowned well over the UK (or should I say Welsh ?) borders, and for many line judges (and umpires) across Europe, your name is forever linked to the All England event …
Congrats again !
Congratulations Margaret. A well deserved recognition for all hard work over past many years . well deserve she work hard last 25 year.
Congratulations Margaret. This award is well deserved recognition for all your voluntary work for the and behalf of the Association.
Congratulations Margaret. Well Deserved award
Services to Badminton very much apreciated
From Kaushik Raja:
“It’s the best ever present awarded to the most well deserved and a worthy winner of all time. Margaret well and truly deserved such an accolade for an invaluable contribution to the association over the years. I wish her all the very best for her future career years ahead with the association”.
Dear Margaret
Well done and deserved.
From Pam, Grace and Carol xxx and ((Hugs))
Margaret
This is a truly deserved recognition for your tireless effort over the years congratulations are definitely in order.You have shown commitment over and above the requirements. You deal with people with friendship, compassion and empathy.
I am please to know you as my friend.
Beat wishes
Andy x
Carol those were special memories to look back on that room was a disaster area but he knew where everything was.
I remember cleaning up for him on many occasions BUT there was always food and drink if anyone need it.
Also we were invited to a barbecue at John’s house one year endless food, he was special and very very clever.
Yes Margaret ‘that room’ as you say memories ❤️
A big thank you and congratulations are in order for a great team.
Kate and Suzanne, You genuinely did a truly spectacular Job.
Between you, in the middle of a pandemic you managed to pull off the most unusual AE competition our organisation has ever had to contend with.
In your own inimitable way, you managed to fend off and deal with what ever was required for a seamless tournament.
Covid protocols, and delayed test results, last minute change requests on procedures were still briefed efficiently and the teams of line judges, even though in isolation, were under no illusion what, when and where their responsibilities lay.
Malcolm Banham summed it up in his thanks and emotional final brief on Finals day, When he brought the Umpires to us to applaud our effort and show that we are One Team.
From a personal point of view. I am very proud to be a member of our team.
Once again thank you for the tremendous amount of work that you put in over the whole of last year to make the AE happen.
Thank you for the info.
Thanks for he info.
Excellent report Bhai Sab.
Well done buddy, keep up the good work as always.
Thank you Anne once again another wonderful newsletter. You evidently put a lot of time in presenting the association with such fantastic reading and information. Thank you again it is greatly appreciated.
A brilliant newsletter, thank you
What a great read, yet again. Thank you to all contributors and to Anne for putting it together. Really enjoyed reading about how the AE finally came together and the trials and tribulations.
Congratulations to Margaret Redfern on her Life Membership. Thoroughly deserved.
Thanks Anne for all the effort you have put in to produce the news letter. Much appreciated !
Just finished reading the news letter. Margaret’s achievements are amazing. I was one of the volunteers for the Para Badminton World Championships 2015. After 2 days training I started line judging. Wish I done it sooner.
Well done Anne, I just love reading about the early days of line judging.
John Miskin
Thank you for the info
Regards
KR
Thank you for the info.
Regards
KR
Thanks Vicky, all information gratefully received!
Best regards ,
Sue Oldershaw
Brilliant
Thanks for the info Vicky.
Good news
Thanks for the info Vicky. Chris steeden.
Hi Vicky. Got an email from badminton england asking for volunteers for this. Should I complete or wait to hear from you specifically about line judges?
Best wishes
Craig
Dear Craig,
Please ignore this, it isn’t a line judge expression of interest request, that will come shortly but will be directly from our association.
Regards
Vicky
I would like the same team as 2021. They worked well and efficiently
I would like to apply for the position of Deputy Manager because I believe that I have all the relevant experience required for this position.
I have knowledge of the BLJA members as I have been on the Committee for several years.
Dear Rizvan,
Please send an email to Martin to Apply, posting a Comment is not the way to apply.
I hope all is well mota bhai.
Regards
Himanshu
May the best team win, which if previous years is anything to go by, they certainly will
We have a winning formula.
Thank you for
The update.
hi Abby i would like to attend this event
yunus
Dear Yunus,
Please email Abby to attend this event.
Regards
Himanshu
I can be there Abby – Sue Mobsby
Dear Due,
Please email Abby to attend this event.
Regards
Himanshu
Many thanks Vicky
Hi Abby, I’m free on 1st August. I would like to volunteer for this event.
Many thanks ,
Bernard Lorenzo
Hi Bernadino,
Please send an email to Abby to request a place on the LJ team.
Thanks
Himanshu
Hello Ladies
I have completed the form and sent it.
Hope you have received it and please kindly consider giving me the opportunity to line judge.
I shall make a concerted effort to do my utmost level best to do line judging at the best of my ability and know-how.
Thank you for your kind and sympathetic consideration.
Regards
KR
MOB:007583710495
Please count me in.
Thanks
KR
Dear Kaushik,
Please send an email directly to Abby to register.
Regards
Himanshu
Hi Abby
I realised that I just forgot to mention that I am still on crutches since I had a major Right Hip Bone surgery a result of a fall at work.
However, I may or may not be on crutches on the day of the Senior Gold Tournament.
I thought that I should inform you, so that you are aware, though I would still love to line judge.
Thank you for your support.
Regards
KR
Hi Suzanne and Mike
I’m sorry but at present I am unavailable for this one as I hope to be reunited with my son his wife and my 2 grandsons. they are hoping to fly into Heathrow from Germany that week… Fingers crossed as all depends on Covid restrictions.
I hope all goes well with the Nationals…Good luck. see you soon
Thanks Andy. I hope everything goes as planned. You’ve waited so long to hug those grandchildren.
I would like to line judge at the above mentioned Tournament.
I am on the crutches at the moment as a result of a fall at work causing a broken right hip bone injury.
However, I may or may not be off the crutches on the days of the Tournament.
NB: Hopefully, I hope with gods grace I am off them and able to participate, and will do my utmost level best to line judge to the best of my ability and knowhow.
Thank you both kindly for your kind support.
Dear Kaushik,
You cannot apply to be a Line Judge using Comments to a Post, you have to fill in the Application Form and in the Comments field, provide additional information.
Regards
Himanshu
I will keep updating you both of my progress.
Regards
KR
Hi, I have had issues on here please can you let me know if you had my first request to add me on for the interest for the Nationals. I did this few weeks ago, I have not had acknowledgment, thanks and regards Rajesh Rahul
Dear Raj,
We have your application.
Regards
H
Well spotted Horace. I see they are still wearing ties. When was the last time we had to wear them at the All England?
Tony Godfrey
I noticed on the first day the players were slipping & falling in two of your matches. Were you on Mopping ! !
Hello Abby
I hope you are well and safe.
I thought I should inform you that although I have started my physio sessions, I don’t think I should risk taking part in the tournament.
My sincere apologies for any inconvenience caused.
Thank you so much for your support.
Regards
KR
Selections have been made and emails sent out.
Please check your inbox and junk and respond via email.
What are the dates of these please, unless I have missed them
Refer to the “Current Event Requests” page.
French and Belgium Opens taking place in the same week?? Coronavirus seemingly still continues to do/cause strange things to happen …..
Another variant!
I thought both France and Belgium are back on the red list, thus necessitating quarantine on return to the UK
It is up to the individual, some people may be happy to isolate upon their return.
Please can you let me know What is dates for all above and where events? you can send me email or text.
Yunus
Hi Vicky,
This is Srinivas Parthasarathy, I am one of the Line Judge. I am not sure if I had put my name forward. Can you please check and let me know if I am in the Mix? if not, can I put my name forward.
Warm Regards,
Srini
Dear Srinvas,
You cannot contact Vicky via a comment to a post, you need to send her an email directly.
Vicky Hatton
Regards
Himanshu
I have known Rizvan for over 10 years, and he was a very knowledgeable and genuine gentleman.
He had a great sense of humor, a person I called my friend and my elder brother, I will miss him a lot.
Still quite shocked by this sudden loss, as I saw him 2 weeks ago at the Nationals, where he looked well, and was his usual joking self.
God bless and RIP mota bhai
Ahh Rizzy – what a lovely man you were. We had many many laughs over the years. He will be sorely missed by all in the badminton world. My condolences to his family with hope that smiles will be back eventually when all those happy memories come to mind.
I was deeply shocked to hear the sad news about Rizvan. I have known him for around 28 years through Line Judging and have found him to be a kind hearted person who would always want to help out where he could. He was a person who had a deep love for the sport of Badminton and was always keen to assist in the Training programme from the early days and will be greatly missed.
RIP Rizvan. It has been a pleasure to know you and thank you for the service you have given to our sport.
Gerry Lewcock
National Training Co-ordinator
Badminton Line Judges Association of England
Real shock….we had so many laughs…helpful with everything…we will miss him.. RIP my friend..
My deepest condolescences to the entire family. I pray the Lords Peace and Hope and Faith during this tough time. What a great guy Rizvan was! He would have me in stitches. You will be greatly missed my friend!!
I have already accepted the invitation to be there.
Dear Ruben,
Please let Margaret know.
Thanks
Himanshu
Hi Gerry,
I’m interested in volunteering for this event , it is just near to where I live.
Thanks
Bernardino Lorenzo
Dear Bernardino,
You cannot communicate with Mgrs using comments to post, please contact Gerry directly.
Thanks
H
This is such a lovely, friendly event – I know Scotland really need our help with numbers to make sure the event runs, so please consider putting yourselves forward!
Okay.
The CE’s rise and fall was way too heavily involved with the rise and fall of the Adcocks
No other players received that kind of support
Thank goodness they are all gone and a new era can begin
I’ll be spreading the word, & have set it to record on the day. Looking forwards to seeing the team do well.
Brussy famous Did !!!!! You !!!! Do !!!!! Well !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! well done all of you , at lest you were on TV I am looking forward to see how Tim Andrew, Anne and Simon give answer Vow.
GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY, I SHALL ENDEAVOUR TO LINE JUDGE TO THE BEST OF MY ABILITY AND KNOW HOW.
Sorry the link does not work !
Try now.
I will be available.
Hi Depend on time of start, I am available for this event. if it is early then no. 4 hr drive to MK and 4 hr back. so I come by train
Yunus Suleman
Hi Yunus, the event starts at 9am, with LJ Briefing at 8.30am, sorry.
Hi, please put me down for the event on the 12th December. Raj
Hi all I am available that’s week please let me know. Raj
Hi Raj,
You cannot register for any event by making a comment, you must complete and submit the registration form for all events.
Happy New Year
H
Rajesh, could you please reply via the Current Event Requests Page, thanks.
Abby
Hi Abby, This is Srini and I would like to volunteer…I am unable to use the current events requests page..
Dear Srini,
I saw your application email, so this means you did find the Form and complete it correctly.
H
Yes I did, thanks Himanshu..it wasn’t clear to scroll right on the app, while using mobile.
Can you please confirm the date of this event. The screen that displays the Event Announcement is dated 12 November 2021. The screen that displays Current Event Requests is dated 12 December 2021.
Dear Gloria,
My mistake, I have corrected the error. The event is 12/12/21.
H
Can you tell me what time this event starts and finishes please
Dear Caroline,
These events normally require an 8.30am LJ Briefing and start at 9am.
Regards
Himanshu
Thanks Himanshu what time does the event normally finish?
Dear Caroline,
Normally around 4-5pm.
H x
Thanks Himanshu what time does the event normally finish?
I’m slightly confused in that it’s not immediately clear to me if you are asking for “Expressions of Interest” for any of the Oversea’s Tournaments listed above … {especially as none of them seem to be currently listed on the ‘Current Events Page’}?? In my case I’d be VERY interested in applying for the Thomas/Uber Cup Finals in Bangkok! … {Covid conditions permitting, etc}.
This list is only FYI.
If and when we get any invitations, the announcement and request for LJ will be done through the normal process, at the time accordingly.
OK, I get it – thanks for the clarification!
It does say at the top “For information only – please not not reply”
Hi Margaret, I would like to purchase a BLJAE top please. The size is large. Many thanks. Charles Cheung
Charles, please use the link in the Post to contact Margaret, making a Comment to the Post is not contacting Margaret.
Thanks
H
Hi Margaret. I’d like an xl top please. Best wishes, craig
Dear Craig,
Please send an email directly to Margaret, using the link in the Post.
You cannot order using Comments to this Post, sorry.
Regards
H
Hi
I am interested to be one of line judge for this tournament.
If you have a space for me, please let me know ASAP.
Kind Regards
Wing
Dear Wing,
You cannot apply for an event by making a comment on a Post.
If you read the Post carefully, it tells you to go to the Current LJ Requests page, and the click the Volunteer button next to the event you are interested in:
-> https://bljae.org/lj-requests
Regards
Himanshu
Well done Anne; . so pleased that you took up the challange to edit the News letters. Thanks.
Seasons Greetings to all
Anne Spencer .
Brilliant as always Anne.
Happy Christmas everyone and and safe and healthy 2022. It’s going to be busy. 🙂
Yep, another good read … {and not just the article I wrote, lol}. One thing for Himanshu : Abby wrote this in his piece : “We now have a list of confirmed national events
to May 2022 (see the BLJAofE website)”. Are we due an update soon maybe early in the new year??
Dear Andrew,
Please refer to our web site and scroll down to the entry titled “FYI Only: Upcoming National Events (up to May 2022)”.
Regards
H
Wishing you all the best and hopefully see you all soon!!
Happy New Year to all
Thanks, and all the very best to all, Sue
Well done again to the committee, looking forward to a healthier New Year for all.
Well done to all on the committee. In spite of all the restrictions you have had fabulous year and managed to put on a number of events ibckuding the All Englands congratulations to all.
I wish everyone everybody a happy new year and all the very best for 2022.
Thank you all for your very kind responses. We do appreciate the feedback. The All England is again proving to be challenging because of the current situation. However, we look forward to the summer and the Commonwealth Games. My personal thanks to the organisers of these 2 events, and also to all the other Committee members, who are all working hard to keep the Association moving forward.
Abby Kumar, President
Please put me in, hoping the restrictions allow.
Dear Doug,
You cannot volunteer for an event using a Reply/Comment for a Post.
Read the Post and complete the relevant Registration Form.
Thanks
Himanshu
I am available
Dear Ruben,
You cannot apply for an event with a comment, read the registration page, it states this very clearly.
Please fill in the registration form my friend.
Regards
H
I agree with Margaret we have some really good new LJs who would benefit from being selected for Semi’s and finals. I believe Kate has this sorted.
On the recruitment front can we ask BE if we could have an opportunity to have a recruitment stall in the foyer for AE. I’m sure we could use a training video for people to make the call
I really like the idea of a stall at the AE.
We can only select people for semi / finals if they express an interest in doing them. Many dont put their names forward as there is alot of waiting around for few mstches or would prefer to have the weekend with their families.
In my report I have highlighted the need for organising training courses in areas where future major events will be held. I discussed the matter with Kate yesterday. Two such areas are Sheffield, where the International Para event will be held in 2023, and Birmingham, where the All England Juniors will (hopefully) become an annual event from 2023. I will contact Mark Downie to ask for a Zoom meeting asap with Kate and myself to discuss what help BE can give us. I will suggest that they ask Regional Officers to help with recruitment.
Kate suggested that we contact the umpires association to enquire whether it would it would be possible for them to advise those who didn’t pass the umpire course to contact the BLJAofE if they wished to try another line of officiating. I will contact Martin Davis and Ian Collett to discuss this.
This is such an important topic and one where we really must take some action. The umpires are in a similar position, albeit very slightly ahead of us in taking some action to address the issue, and it’s worth reading across to what they have been doing, either to learn what might work, or even to join forces where appropriate.
As this topic has been raised, I think we should keep the momentum up and try and organise a short Zoom discussion specifically covering this area (say 30 mins one evening?) for those who have some ideas and/or want to get involved
I am available.
Ruben, you need to apply on the current events page. This won’t get you a place
Cheers, I have actually done that now.
As I was one of the founder members I am pleased to see that the association is still active. long may it continue. Regards Anne Spencer.
Hi all. I am sorry, but I will not be able attend the AGM zoom as I will be line judging at the Swiss open.
Hi guys, had to change to apologies. Have a great meeting
Congratulations everyone.
Woop woop. Well done everyone
Well done
Well done everyone
Congratulations to all. Well done on your assessments results. A great effort all round. See you l very soon somewhere on the circuit.
Andy
Congratulations to all hope you have good time and enjoye line judges,
Sorry guys missing you all, umpiring at Milton Keynes for premiership weekend.
Well done everyone
Congratulations to all concerned.
Having seen you all progress so much over the past few years, I am very glad to see your efforts and skills being rewarded.
See you soon!
Sorry I did not make it, umpiring in Perth that day
Congratulations to you all. We’ll done. “Call it as you see it”
My apologies, completely missed the day following family commitment
Where’s “I know my place “ photo !
Dear Martin,
It’s on page 2 sir!
H
Very sorry to read this post but, more importantly, really hope everything is OK with Martin – lovely man
I wish him all the very best in his future endeavours
Kathleen Cashmore
Very sorry to hear that as Martin done an excellent job for the association. I wish him all the best
Many thanks to Martin for his dedication to the role of secretary over the last 5 years. He will be a tough act to follow. Is the Committee aware, from e.g. his resignation e-mail, of any particular issues or concerns about how BLJAE operates which might have caused him to take this decision?. Having spoken to him at the Hampshire senior Gold tournament last Sunday, prior to his resignation, I’m aware that he is also very busy with his other sporting commitments (tennis & football).
Sorry to hear that news,
Sue
I to was talking to Martin at Winchester, he is very busy with other sporting commitments, but I do wish him well
I’m very envious! Well played Paul ,
Sue
Thanks Sue..He was very humble and spoke to us as if one of us….
It’s too late for me no doubt, and I understand that the age limit is a BWF thing not BLJofE, but such an arbitrary age limit is illegal in English law, certainly in the context of employment. It seems to me that a court would conclude it is also illegal for volunteer positions. There is a well organised assessment process for line judges. This would provide an objective and legally and morally defensible filter to weed out any line judges without the right competences. I believe at the very least this argument should be put to BWF . They might change their mind but at the very least they should be asked to justify this arbitrary, discriminatory age limit.
A lovely gentleman, who I became good friends with as we did the same LJ Training Course in October 2012, and we both loved our gadgets.
I shared many AE and other tournaments with him, always a great pleasure to see Kong.
I was sorry to see him leave us for the USA, and now he is no longer with us, I miss him even more 🙁
I know his laughter and infectious smile will be missed by all the LJs & Umpires that knew him.
RIP my dear friend, you left us far too early!
So sorry to hear the sad news, he always has a smile when we meet and chat, my condolences to all the family.
So sad to hear this. Had more than one dinner with him in Akbar’s , he always had a smile and handled his spice well. May he rest in peace….
Very saddened and shocked to hear the sad news about Kong especially as he was a still relatively young person. . He was trained by myself and Abby at Wimbledon in 2012 and went on to attend many events as described by Abby and became a valued member of our Line Judge family..
I will miss my chats and laughs with him which we had when we met at events as he was a very likable and easy going person and always greeted you with a smile.. On the professional side, he had a doctorate in Computer Science so we would also enjoy our in depth technical chats on occasions.
It was a pleasure to have known Kong and he will be greatly missed by all that have known him.
R.I.P. My Friend
Gerry
National Training Co-ordinator BLJA of E
Very sad news and taken far too young. As already said he was a lovely and smiley person.
RIP Kong you will be missed by many
I am so sad to hear of the passing of dear Kong, such a lovely man always smiling and laughing at my silly jokes and teasing. Always made the AEO fun place be. You are in my thoughts buddy, love goes out to the family, Rest up.
A great shock to hear Kong had passed away, he was the perfect gentleman and a delightful person to have as a friend.
Wonderful conversations.
I cannot believe it was 2019 when we sat together watching the finals of All England, that was the last time we met.
Rest in peace Kong you have left a lasting legacy behind you and inspired so many.
Sadly missed I will always remember your smile.
Very sad to hear this. RIP my friend…
My condolescences to the family. Gods peace be with u during this tough time xx
Such a shock to hear this sad news about Kong – he was always so jolly, laughing and joking. Our thoughts are with his family at this time.
Lovely friendly guy. RIP
RIP Susanto. It always nice to having a chat at badminton events as a line judge and umpire. Will miss. May God bless your soul. xxx
Lovely words. Thank you Kristin.
Kong will be very sadly missed. He was a wonderful gentleman.
I will miss a gentle friend
Good to see mention of Gill Gilks’ playing partner Margaret Beck in the article. I had forgotten that. Margaret of course is from West Cumbria. It seems that every now and again our sparsely populated northern county produces some star players, Lauren Smith being another. And in the men’s veteran game the evergreen Harry Shadwick!
Like everyone else, so sad to hear this news – Kong was such a delightful character.
RIP my friend.
Well done Mike
Good news for the Association. Hope you enjoy the job.
Tony
Great news. Congratulations and well done Mike.
I feel we are in safe hands once again
Thank you
Andy
Well done Mike!! 👏👏
Good news. Thank you Mike, well done!
Well Done Mike
Congratulations Mike on the new appointment, wishing you every success
Thank you, Mike.
Well done and thank you for taking up this roll.
Gloria
The chairperson’s report is missing.
So are my ‘apologies’ for not being able to attend which I sent in by email … but of course I accept the missing Chairperson’s Report is of greater importance, lol?!
Well done Abby. Well deserved
Well done Abby. It is well deserved
Congratulations..very happy to learn this..
Congratulations Abby!
Great, Abby – well done and thanks for all your work for BLJA over so many years
Nice one Abby, well done.
Congratulations Abby
Anne spencer
Congrats you deserve it.
Congratulations Abby
Well deserved Abby. Congratulations.
Something you deserve Abby – many congratulations. X Sue Mobsby
Congratulations Abby. A well deserved nomination.
This is very good news and ensures line judge representation at the top level. 😊
This is wonderful news. Congratulations Abby, it is fitting recognition and well deserved, all your hard work has not gone unnoticed. Well done.🤗👍
Well done, congratulations
Really pleased for you Abby, no one deserves it more.
Well done and definitely deserved.
Dear Friends, I am so overwhelmed by the responses received since Kate posted the news. Thank you all so much, I will treasure your kind comments. Badminton England have been very kind in voting me into this position, and I am delighted that I can continue to attend BE meetings and have a say in its administration. In recent years Kate has joined me in meetings with the BE CEO and Chairman, and we also work closely with Mark Downie and Chris Miller on major and national events. This is good for our Association, and it keeps us on BE’s radar. I know that we have sufficient talent in our committee for us to continue this close link with BE into the future. Thank you all so much. My best wishes to you, and your families, for a safe and healthy future.
Abby
Look forward to a 3:00 am finish again !
Well done, Abby! A long time coming and very much deserved. Congrats.
I see that the BWF have upped the prize money to $1 million and Super 1000 status has also been granted to China, Indonesia and Malaysia. I’m guessing that they want to split the first round over two days to bring in extra revenue. But if they want to expand by having an extra round, Martin’s nightmare may become true.
Great news Abby, well done
Well done Abby and so well deserved.
Well done everyone, you all did all of us proud!. I wonder if anyone can help, if any of you who were at Birmingham have a spare polo shirt medium size, please could you consider sending it to me – I will of course pay postage
I have one you can have x
It was an absolute privilege to be part of such an amazing team x
Yes i agree with all above. My thanks to the terrible trio of Vickty, Kate and Suzanne who ran the shop well. Good time had by all (except those in purgutory)
Not sure if this an event that happened in June or one that’s happening in September
Thanks Suzanne, error corrected 🙂
Hi Mike I am interested in line judging in this event. Reggie
Hi Mike I am interested in line judging at this event
Srinivas could you please log in and request via the events page, so I get the email expression of interest
Thanks
Mike
Hi Mike I am interested in Line Judging at this event. (From Wing Tsui)
Hi Mike
I’m interested in this event please consider me for selection
Andy could you please log in and request via the events page, so I get the email expression of interest
Thanks
Mike
Hi Himanshu
Wow that is a comprehensive view of what happened in Birmingham.
I has a ball at the Commonwealth Games It was a pleasure to work and share with a great bunch of people.
I would have liked to say “ You missed a bit” but you didn’t. fab memories.
Well done .
Andy
Great pictures Himanshu, thanks for sharing!
Its great to see how much you can pack into 2 weeks.
WOW brilliant xx
I can help at this event Mike if you need more judges! Sue M
Dear Sue,
Please register.
H x
Can you please put my name forward for this event.
Thanks John
I’m available for both days with overnight stay.
Para championship is on the 11th Dec, which is the same day as the Senior Nationals?
Yes, that is correct. It is Badminton England’s scheduling.
It’s a shame, I would like to have volunteered for the para championships, but cannot travel on the 10th, so cannot get to Sheffield for the 11th
Do we have a rough idea about schedule/finish time on the 11th Dec for the Senior Nationals?
No firm timings as yet Cheng, but I am working on 09.00 start and 16.00 finish. I am liaising with BE to get full details confirmed by end of Sept. I will get back to all those who have expressed an interest by that time.
Please consider me for selection
My son Alex Kodiatt is interested in becoming a Line Judge. Pl let me know next steps. Thank you
Paul, your son can apply via this website – how to become a line judge, and details of courses will be sent through to him. Thanks
Kate
Excellent memories Himanshu, thank you
I have already applied, but need to change my availability – now only available for the 17th and 18th
Pauline, can you resubmit so that your availability is recorded on an email. Thanks Kate
Dates shown on the current events page for the Welsh Intl show start date as 26th November. Above notification shows start date as 29th November ?
Dear Tom,
Thanks, mistype corrected.
Regards
H
🙂
Worth noting that the start date of TUESDAY 29th November is correct, i.e. just like the All England next year the Welsh Open is also on for an extra day, i.e. tournament scheduled to last 5 days, rather than the ‘usual’ 4.
Hi Kate can you send some details about line judging to Manjula, Nagraj and Tanvi to dr_manjoo@yahoo.com? There will probably be 3 of them. Also to Aparna maganty at aparnamaganty@gmail.com thanks
Dear Reggie,
All training is coordinated by Gerry.
Ask you friends to use the Contact Us link to request there interest.
Thanks
H
Well done Mike. The new haircut sealed it!! Sue M
Thanks Sue, its a terrible cut as it goes curly when wet
Well done and well deserved
Pete
Thanks Pete
Congratulations Mike, well done…
Thanks George
Congratulations young man, welcome to the BWF ITO Club.
Thanks H, looking forward to it
Ok thank you.
Congratations Mike , excellent news!
Thanks Simon
Congrats Mike!
Thanks Chen
Congratulations Mike, well deserved
Thanks Keith
Congratulations, Mike. Well done.
Thanks Paul
Look forward to seeing you on BWF TV. Congrats Mike.
Thanks Tony as long as its my good side 😁
Congratulations Mike. I hope you get selections as good as mine. I have had a wonderful time with BWF. Enjoy
Andy thanks and yes I hope so
Congratulations Mike… Well deserved..
Thanks Gloria
Hey Mike, congratulations.
Thanks Ruben
Please consider me for this event when dates are confirmed
Congratulations Mike !
Thanks Suchit
Big shoes to fill!! Congrats on setting the standard for the future Kate.
It was great working with you over the years, was looking forward to seeing you this time as well. Good luck with everything…
Thanks Kate for everything you have done xx
Congratulations Mike
Thanks John
Thanks for all your hard work, will miss you
It has been a great pleasure working with you and for you over the years. Congratulations on your achievements with Badminton England with regards to the Line Judge and AE tournament itself for the last seven years. You will be a hard act to follow.
I hope you will still join us on the lines.
Thank you Kate, for all the years of hard work that you have put into making the All England Tournament a pleasurable experience for me. I really appreciate your efforts
Thank you.
Well done Kate, always calm and approachable. Thanks for all your hard work.
i have nothing extra to add to all the above accoladaes. We will miss you
It’s been fabulous working with you Kate as your deputy. I’ve learnt so much from you; not only about the event but about how to interact with our wonderful linejudges, the umpires and Referees and the BE staff.
Like Abby says, your work load would be starting about now, so you’ve got some time available to fulfil other ambitions. Enjoy your well deserved break.
Thank you.
I hope the future works out for you, but good luck to your successor
What will be do without you canal Kate!!!
Thank you Kate, for all the years of hard work that you have put into making the All England Tournament a pleasurable experience for me. I really appreciate your efforts. will miss you Kate.
Thank you
I remember when I did my first AE event I felt very nervous but on meeting Kate and her team at the venue I knew I would be okay, as Kate and team were approachable. I have attended the AE a few times now and I know everything is so well organised and a great event to attend.
Thanks for all your help over the years and will be missed.
Thanks again Kate
Kate , I know the stresses and I am extremely sorry you have made the decision to step down. I do hope that you will carry on as a line person. All the best and keep in touch.
Kate, many thanks for all your hard work and efforts over the last six years – we go back a lot longer than that. It has been a pleasure working with you. You made the All England a really worthwhile experience and I am sure many of us are grateful for that. I wish you well for the future.
Thank you, Kate, and best wishes !
As usual an excellent news letter – thanks Anne M
Anne S
Excellent News Letter…Thank you..
Thanks Anne. Does anyone know what brand were the synthetic feather shuttles used for the BWF tournaments?
I like the idea of synthetic feather shuttles but haven’t found any that have been close enough to feathers for feel/flight.
Yonex were the ones developed and approved with BWF so i assume they are the ones that would be used in BWF approved events. The shuttles do look very much like feather ones.
Anne Morden
Hi Abby,
Congratulations you have my support , if you want it. Good to have you back
Well done, Abby and Sue.
Thank you, Janet!
Having just seen both messages, I sorry to see that Kate cannot continue, but it must be an arduous and time consuming job dealing with Badminton England and organising the judges for this premier event. Thanks to both Abby and Sue for stepping up to manage the AE line judges at short notice.
Thank you, Tony
Interesting article on artificial shuttles, but I wouldn’t be keen on making the goose redundant!
All the very best Abby, happy to support in anyway…
All the best Abby & Sue
Thank you so much.
Thanks for sharing the news letter. Interesting topic about the sustainability of shuttles. Glad to know that badminton world is thinking and putting things into motion to make this sport more sustainable and economical.
Change in right direction is good, although I agree on the point of difference in feel and trajectory. However if this change allows more clubs to survive and continue to play, it should be welcomed and promoted whole heartedly.
Nice to see you back Abby…all support from me to you and the team…
Hi unfortunately due to circumstances I will not be able to attend this event.
Well come back Abbey and Sue
Happy to have you back. Well done.
Congratulations Abby and Sue!
Thank you very much
Sorry can’t find the EOI form (!!) but would like to be considered for the All England 2023
Found it!!!!!!!!
Dear Sue,
I see you found the “here” link 🙂
H x
I’ve completed the E01 form but don’t think the Submit button worked. Can my interest be acknowledged please. Thanks
Dear Pam,
The Form will not submit until you complete all mandatory fields, that measn you must answer Yes or No for each date, you cannot leave any filed, except the Comments field blank.
H x
I did Himanshu. Yes on every date.
Hi Pam I did the same twice so I tried the 3rd time without a space for the mobile number.
Sue and Reggie, I have received your forms.
Pam, I am still awaiting yours.
Thank you all for your messages of support. As I mentioned, we are all working together to deliver a successful tournament. That is the aim of all of us. With such great support, especially from Kate and Suzanne, I know we can do it!
Thank you everyone for your kind words. It was a very difficult decision to make but I am still line judging, so I hope to see you all around the circuit soon. I wish Abby and Sue all the best for the 2023 All England, it’s a lot of hard work and stressful at times but I know you will deliver a great line judge experience at the All England next year.
Wishing Abby and Sue all the very best in the running of this event.
Pam, your form has been received.
Hi Abby
I cannot found the EOI form from web site — Can you send me a copy of the form?
Regards
Wing Tsui
Hi Abby
Sorry – I found the form now
Senior Nationals to those that have volunteered I will try and acknowledge your application on the weekend.
Also need some additional LJs for Saturday evening if you could spare the time I would certainly appreciate it.
Thanks
Mike
i could help if you require me on Saturday
Thanks Horace
That would be good, just to keep the records straight can you please apply through the website
Thanks Wing, I have received your form.
I could help at the Under 19’s on Nov 27 Abby! I haven’t anything written down for that date so am OK! Sue M
I could do 23 oct middx gold
Dear Craig,
Please complete the Registration Form -> https://bljae.org/2022-middlesex-senior-gold
Thanks
H
Kate,
Kate,
If you are desperately short then I can help on the 16th and 17th , but sorry it ismy anniversary on the 18th
Pauline Martindale
My email to you keeps getting bounced back, guess it’s your spam filter.
Can you email please mmikegspear@aol.co.uk for the nationals
Than
Mike
Sure I will be available and expresses my interest.
This is a really generous bequest by John and reflects his tremendous commitment over so many years to Badminton, BA of E, and in particular our Association of Line Judges. Thank you, John and I am sure the money will be used wisely in his name.
I agree it was his idea, built and executed by him. just to start could we not have some title of this web site with his name and acknowledgement. Surely we could start by having something permanent to him.
Better late than never to respond but as usual great newsletter. Birmingham did look wonderful snd I said to myself while watching that I hoped it was better organised than Glasgow which Horace touched on in his report. I was in the player info area amid reams of unnecessary paperwork that no team ever collected, the food was awful and i never saw any live badminton. That said. GLASGOW made the hassle well worth it, i met some great folk and thanks to Davina we had a lovely place to stay!!
Could you please pass on my condolences , as Doug was a great friend of mine, he is quite local to me and have known him for a very long time.
By best wishes go to his family , his whit and companionship will be greatly missed.
I’ve known Doug for almost 30 years, having seen him each year at the All England in Birmingham and a few other events. Doug never had a bad word to say and it was a pleasure to know him.
Hi, so sorry to hear this sad news, could you please send condolences to his wife and family.
I also knew Doug and he had been to Scotland a few times, also at the AE too.
Such sad news, he will be sorely missed.
Very sad news. Please pass on my condolences to Doug’s family. I have known Doug for many years through the AE,Scottish and other events and shared some good times, he was very good company.
Sad news indeed. Doug was a true gentleman and a very kind soul. I knew him through the AE over many years. Please send my condolences to his family .
Such sad news, known Doug since the days of Wembley. He was a true gentleman, and a cheerful since of humour. Please pass on our condolences (from the Volunteers team @ the AE.)
Lovely man, always friendly and smiling. Condolences to his family
very sad news he was good gentlemen and very friendly always have time to talk sadly missed him condolences 🙏 to his family 👪
Very sad news indeed, a real gentlemen with a unique sense of humour, and I spent many a time discussing technology and various line judge rules an behavior. I hope he RIP and my deepest condolences to his family.
I remember meeting Doug at my first ever tournament abroad in Basel, Switzerland where we shared a room. He was a regular visitor there and I think it was one of his favourite tournaments. In addition to the badminton. He was a lovely soft spoken gentleman. I too send my condolences to his widow and family. RIP Doug.
I too remember Doug being my room mate at the Swiss Open in Basel {March 2015} and yes, I think this tournament was one of his favourites! I also echo yours and all the other comments made to him being a really nice person and was sorry to hear the sad news of his passing. RIP Doug!
So sorry to hear this sad news but so many memories of a kind and sensitive gentleman. My condolences to his family, RIP Doug
My deepest condolences on the loss of your dear husband Jim, I am sure your devotion and daily time with him went a long way in helping him feel your love and care, during his illness. Take care and you are in my thoughts, and of course Jim lives on in your and your families heart. Love Himanshu 🙏🏾
I am so sorry for your loss and I am sending you 100 hugs your way. My thoughts are with you and your family.
So sorry to hear this Margaret. My deepest condolences.
George
My deepest condolences to Margaret and family at this sad time
So sorry to hear of your loss Margaret- deepest condolences
Sorry to know about your loss. Deepest condolences.
Dear Margaret, Sorry to hear about your sad loss. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
I’m sorry to hear this my deepest condolences to Margaret and her family at this sad time.
so sorry to hear my deepest condolences Margaret and family
So sorry for your loss. Deepest condolences to you and your family
Condolences Margaret, and Faimiy x
From Pam, Grace and Carol xxx
Margaret, such sad news, my thoughts are with you and your family at this very sad time for you all xxxx
So sorry to hear about your loss. My deepest condolences.
May your happy memories of Jim give you peace and comfort.
So sorry to hear of your loss, Margaret. Wishing you peace and happy memories. xx
Margaret, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of you husband Jim. You are in my thought at this sad time. Deepest condolences for both you andy your family.xx
Deepest condolences Margaret to you and your family. Thoughts are with you at this very sad time. ❤️Xx
Margaret, so sorry to hear of your loss, my thought are with you at this difficult time. Chris
Dear Margaret, very sorry to learn of this sad news. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Sorry to read this Margaret, thinking of you x
to youand your family
So sad to hear of your loss, Margaret, my thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time
Sad to hear the news… our deepest condolences
I’m so sorry to hear of your news, Margaret. Thinking of you.
Congratulations Stuart! Sue
Congrats Stu!
R.I.P Tony
Congrats Stuart and family. Another budding line judge!
Sad news Margaret, my condolences for your loss
Congratulations Stuart & Eleena. Great early Christmas present for you both….Enjoy
R.I.P Tony
Congratulations Stuart and Eleena. Welcome little Axel
Congratulations Stuart
Excellent news. Won’t be long before he is running around a Badminton court.
Congratulations Stuart… how wonderful…
Good Gentleman sad to hear we lost good friend R.I.P Tony
Congratulation Stuart !!!!!!!!!!!!!Dad!!!!!!!!
What a wonderful Christmas gift, congratulations Stuart.
RIP Doug, Switzerland will miss you too. I sent a card on behalf of the association to his wife.
Congratulations to you both 🍼🍼
R.I.P Tony, fond memories of our time at Scottish International and celebrations in the apartment, with Owen & Freda, Mavis & Michael & Marilyn.
I also have good memories of Tony and the apartment, and of getting good seats for Hilarybatnrhe All England. RIP Tony
Congratulations to you all. Wonderful news. Happy Christmas to you all. Xx
so gorgeous. many congratulations to you all xxx
Congratulations Stuart, hope the dad club treats you well
George
R.I.P Tony. Deepest condolences to the family and friends.
Congratulations to the both of you!
Congratulations to all of the Glasgow family. 👶
congratulations he is beautiful 👶
A very Merry Christmas to the committee and thanks for all the hard work you do on our behalf.
RIP Tony
Congratulations!!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year wishes to everyone. Thank you for welcoming me into this wonderful (with some lunatics 😀 ) community. I have had the privilege of line judging at 3 events this year since becoming a line judge, 1 national and 2 International events. Wealth of experience gained in these events with valuable feedback from peers, umpires and Referee’s.
Look forward to 2023!
Stay safe and enjoy the festivities!
Cheers
VK
Thanks Anne for another excellent Newsletter. And thanks Andrew for a really interesting article. A great mix of badminton and travel!
Abby
Merry Christmas everyone, I hope to be back with you in 2023, after having to drop out of a few tournaments due to illness in 2022, but hey, onwards and upwards
Hey I just looked up and realised it’s 12.10am….Christmas Day!! Have a safe and healthy one everybody and a blessed New Year.
Compliments of the Season!
Will be delighted to see you again.
Take care Margaret, and may you too find peace
See you soon Margaret, thoughts are with you x
Thinking of YOU at this very sad time Maurice
You are in our thought Margaret, Rest in Peace Jim.
I will be in the crowd cheering you on Margaret! Best wishes x.
Your gonna be just fine Margaret!! Keep going and you shall get through this time much stronger through it!! Love Yas xxx
I wholeheartedly back your chairperson as I have tried to pull back on my volunteering and even tried to retire , but I am having to volunteer to fill in the lack of attendance . Please support the association.
I will happily support the association when I’m either not at work or have nothing else going on. My only issue is that most of the events are over an hour away and as we don’t, unfortunately, get incentive such as petrol per mile it’s not, for most of the time, worth my drive to break even
Sorry to hear but I wish you and your family good health. See you in Birmingham.
Cheers
VK
Hi Old friend ,
I am so sorry to hear this, but I have been telling you that youi work too hard for a few years now. Please give my regards to your family and enjoy your now retirement. Do not act like me and return because you miss the companionship, stay resolute.
Horace
O Abby – you will be so missed. But it is completely understandable that family comes first. Thank you for all you have done over so many years. Always a true gentleman in both senses of the word!
Abby I will soooooooo….miss you…you have been such an inspiration and encouragement since day one and wont forget the love and support you have poured into my training and development, up to this point.
I wish you all the very best for the future
god bless you
Thank you, Abby for your unstinting service over so many years. Your commitment and passion has been second to none. I wish you peace and good health for you and your family.
Abby, you can look back at the extraordinary improvements to the Association and our welfare that you have contributed to over the years. Your flawless management of our team at the 2012 Olympics is one of the highlights not to be forgotten. I look forward to seeing you again at this year’s All England.
Sorry to hear that Abby. Hope all goes well in the future for you and your family.
You will be sorely missed. Many thanks for all the help and advice that you have given me. Bless you and your family.
You have done a brilliant job, Abby. Best wishes for a happy retirement.
Dear Abby, Thank you so much for everything you have done for us. My thoughts are with you and your family xxxx
Dear Abby
I wish you and your family well for the future, and thank you for your support for the Association in general, but personal support in particular.
You were the one who gave me the chance to start my Line Judging career, I will always be grateful for that, for giving me the opportunity to meet some lovely people and be involved in something that I really enjoy – thank you and good luck
I will miss you Abby. You have been a wonderful support to me over many years. Take care and love and best wishes to your family xxx
I can only do the Sunday if that’s any good
Rajesh if you still put in an EOI but state this in the comments it can then be passed on to the event manager when appointed
Dear Abby,
You are an absolute legend and a real credit to Badminton England!
You have conducted yourself par excellence that can only be emulated by others; never surpassed. Thank you for your encouragement and support over the years! Fantastic memories during the 2011 World Championships followed by the London 2012 Olympics – Wonderful memories walking along the Embankment; being entertained during matches. I will cherish the pictures taken together.
Take care and best wishes to you and your family.
At time of writing, parking at Redbridge Sports Centre costs £2.20 for the whole of Sunday opening hours. There is a wall-mounted tablet in the reception area. Payment is by credit or debit card only.
If arriving at the Forest Road entrance, drive past the first car park, past the indoor tennis hall and into the second car park. The badminton is being held in the Jean Brown Indoor Arena.
Can I put my name forward for this one please
Dear friends, thank you so much for all the lovely messages. I can’t tell you how much they mean to me. Over the many years that I have been involved in officiating, it is the friendships I that I have made that I treasure most. Seeing my friends is always the most enjoyable part of attending an event. I will follow the Association’s progress closely and I wish it the very best for the future.
To all my dear friends, good luck, good health and enjoy the game!
Abby
Please register my apologies for the A G M as I will be away on holiday at that time
Can you ‘register apologies’ here or is it still best done as an email to the Secretary?? I need to offer up ‘possible apologies’ as I’ll be on Line-Judging on BLJAE duties at the Semi Finals of the Polish Open … and may only be able to attend part{s} of the meeting … and that’s only if schedules/timings permit?! I’ll do my best though with a laptop in the Officials Room, etc?!
Please send my apologies as I will be away that weekend
Hi,
It is just an idea . Could you not put the nomination date at the All England , it gives time for all attending the AE to have a chat and discuss the requirements from the experienced personnel. We all have phones and can express interest if they want.
Horace
Thanks for the suggestion I have amended the closing date for Committee applications to 20th March
Thanks
Mike
have a good AGM Please accept my apologies for not taking part.
Anne Spencer.
Please register my apologies as I will be overseeing a junior badminton event
My apology but i cannot attend the AGM. We (Berkshire old Age pensioners) have a county match at Kent on that day. We will be en route at this time . I trust the AGM goes well.
Am interested in this event but because of the distance, will switch to using the train. My interest has a caveat; if train strikes still exists I may have to pull out. Enjoyed the event in Dublin
Dean, please can you apply by the events page. thanks
Looks good but the announcement above leads to a couple of queries : 1 : Can you claim the 0.15p/mile if you are travelling by either Train and/or Coach?? … and 2 : Who’s doing the ‘pairing up’ for the Twin Rooms at the Ibis Styles??. I mean, we can’t really do it ourselves as we don’t know who’s actually been selected yet so can we assume the Line Judge Manager will do this and we can just put in our EOI’s on the BLJAE Website and the ‘Hotel Twins’ can be sorted out later??
apologies I wont be attending as I will be I Basel line judging the Swiss Open
Andy Bater
I don’t know if the above comment is serious, or tongue in cheek – but I have never known of mileage being claimed or paid when travelling by train and/or coach, and I have made many claims for mileage when travelling by car – for work as well as other events. Whether you can claim expenses towards your coach or train tickets is something you will have to discuss
Also, I have never had a problem when being paired up with someone for hotel accommodation – if you don’t want to take your chances, then book your own accommodation.
I’m sorry, but Margaret and the team do a fantastic job and to give them more headaches is not fair on them
In past years I’ve received a payment of £15 ‘per journey’ in relation to Travel Expenses for getting to/from Birmingham for the All England on the coach/train. Thought occurs there might be something similar on offer for the Junior All England, which might even be ‘mileage based’?! Re ‘Hotels’ – I too have never had a problem being paired up with someone – but at the All England people do often make their own arrangements to ‘buddy up’ to save money – and I was just wondering how this MIGHT work if you don’t know who’s been selected until a few weeks before the event?? So I’d say these queries were proper ones rather than ‘tongue in cheek’ … and I’ll wait for Kate’s ‘official’ response?!
Most of the hotels do not have twin bed rooms
Abby and Sue thank you very much you made a good Line Judges team and I am very please of working under yours umbrella.
Great week well done both of you .
Yunus
Absolutely fantastic event and great organisation by Abby and Sue. Was glad to be a part of the team again this year. Thanks so much for the opportunity.
George
Lovely to see my Linejudge family. Hope we can catch up again soon.
Thank you Abby & Sue for all the work and organisation you both put in to make this an extremely successful event for all concerned. It was a pleasure to participate again and to see some new faces from the training program performing well.
Many thanks to all my LJ colleagues for making the whole experience so fulfilling, but special thanks to both Abby and Sue for all your hard work in what must have been at times very trying circumstances, the total commitment from you both enabled us to make the Championships the success that they were – well done everyone, it was a real joy to be part of this fantastic team
Congratulations Abby for your fifty years volunteering and presenting the trophy to Ladies singles runner up.
Very nice to see Sue Storey and Mike Robinson at our briefing.
Great week thank you Abby and Sue.
I pretty much echo the same sentitment expressed by the rest. As a first timer for the event and with the line judging family, it was a very well organised and managed event from Line Judges perspective. Appreciate all your effort and co-ordination to make this as seameless as possible for me (and us).
If you find a hotel which is £45 per night, do you then get the full £45.
I do take notice.
Unable to join. Message on Zoom says ID not valid.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85158843206?pwd=TXMyTnlvYVhwK0h5aTBKTDk2UlVRQT09
Andrew 13.06 in Poland. Zoom crashed – appologies but can’t sign back in due to being on court for the Finals at 13.30 local time. Please pass on apologies to meeting if you see this. Regards, Andrew
Congrats everyone!
👏👏👏👏
Congratulations to all of you!
Congratulations and Well done 👍🏽
Congratulations all
Well done everyone.
Congratulations 👏
Congratulations to all of you 🎉🎉
Thank you all, wouldn’t have been possible without the help and support of my fellow LJ’s
Thank you all.
Congratulations to all of you
Congratulations to all of you 👏👏👏
Well done congratulations to all🤗
Congratulations to all
Thanks for voting everyone – look forward to working with the rest of the committee and the Association in general!
A great big thank you to all those members who gave me a vote. Looking forward to my first Committee Meeting
God bless u all x
Well done to all the newbies
Just to reiterate what Kevin & Dionne have already said , Big thank you to all that voted and looking forward to the next two years working with the committee
Congratulations Kev, Karen, Simon and Dionne.
Awesome news, thank you to everyone who voted for the four of us, really looking forward to it!
Congratulations to all the new guys. The best candidates were elected and I wish you success in your new roles.
Well done, Kevin, Karen, Simon and Dionne. Best wishes !
No mention of the ghastly food!!!
Abby. Sue
thank you for sharing these comments from our Foreign colleagues. Job well done.
I have interested to attend.
Dear Yunus,
Please register for the event ASAP.
Regards
Himanshu
Thanks for the lovely photos!
I have just sent my application for assistant aI too late
👍👍👍👍
Congrats ladies 👍🏻👍🏻
congratulations 🎊
Just to note for those interested in possibly going to this that the world famous Calgary Stampede starts a couple of days before this tournament ends. That will mean flights and accommodation being somewhat more expensive than usual.
congratulations both
congrats Mike
Thanks Andy
Great stuff Kate
Whoop whoop!!
Thanks Nice Work Done.
Great news we’ll done Kate
Thanks Kate, good news
Well done Kate x
Great news, thank you Kate
Well done guys awesome result
excellent news, thank you Kate
Great work Kate…Very wll done
How do you go about when you have arranged your own accommodation
Thank you Anne for an excellent Newsletter
Hi Anne – Another excellent newsletter thanks. Anne
Thanks for your compliments. It’s always good to know it’s appreciated.
Really enjoyed reading everyone’s stories and experiences
Great pictures too
A great newsletter
Really enjoyed reading everyone’s stories and experiences
Great pictures too
A great newsletter
Jennifer
Thanks Anne, for the great newsletter.
Goodness Anne we have known each that long, along with the ‘old timers’!
And we know who they are!
Please ignore the closing date. If anyone is interested please apply. Margaret
hi Margaret yes I like to attend Scottish open
Hi Margaret I would like to attend the Scottish Open please
Please reply to the invitations by clicking the link. Do not leave a message on the website.
Margaret
Can you put my name down please Margaret? Sue Mobsby
IM INTERESTED KEEP ME POSTED IS IN MY DIARY UNTIL YOUR CONFIRMATION CHEERS DIONNE
I’ll also be interested in this one … so will watch out for the Official Event Invitation on the website.
I’m interested in this one. Please put my name down and keep me posted Thanks Andy
Can you put my name down please Margaret. Pam Pearce
Sue, Dionne. Andrew, Andy, Pam, thank you. Margaret
Can I add my name please Margaret. Thanks Caroline x
Dear Margaret, thanks, hope to be there
Caroline & Pauline, thank you. Margaret
Hello Margaret, Yes I’d like to attend.
Hello Margaret, I will be interested.
Hi team. I am interested in attending as it was a FYI I did not add
Hi Margaret I would be interested in this one, I will look out for the official event invitation
The official invite is now on website.
Margaret
I have applied but just realised I can’t do it anyway as I’m 10 pin bowling in county championships. Sorry for the confusion.
Spoke to Margaret about possibility of being included for this event
Hi Himanshu do you still need line judges for this event because I’m free on the 3rd September. Reggie
Sorry, applied by mistake, please take my name off the list
Thanks Anne. Excellent as always and fab contributions from members.
Great to read about LCW-my badminton hero.
lovely to read other LJ`s experiences, thanks guys. Well don Ann.
Anne Spencer….Another excellent newsletter Anne Welcome to Doug.
Well deserved, congratulations Abby
Congratulations, Abby. So we’ll deserved
Congrats. Keep us all on track.
Many congratulations Abby. This is a small recognition of all that you have done for badminton and us. Thank you!
Congrats Abby
Well done and congrates Abby, the service and support over the years
Huge congratulations, Abby.
Many congratulations Abby. Well deserved.
Congratulations Abby. well deserved.
Absolutely fabulous news Abby. Well done. Well deserved. You have been such a blessing to me . Thanks again for all your encouragement !! Blessings to you for the future
That’s wonderful Abby. Well done 🙂
Congratulations Abby. It is so well deserved for such a special person who offers himself tirelessly to Badminton, and also to all of us that work with you.
Well deserved.
Many congratulations Abby, you’re an example to us all.
A fitting award Abby. Congratulations
Congrats Abby, well deserved.
Fantastic news, Congratulations Abby!!!
Congratulations Abby, well deserved. Thank you for all you have done for the association and the help you’ve given me personally
Many congratulations Abby, really pleased for you, well deserved
Congratulations Abby, very fitting and well deserved.
A well deserved appointment recognising all the work you have done for Line Judges.
Hey Abby – pleased to read the news about your new BLJAofE appointment and that you’ll be ‘keeping a watchful eye’ over your many friends here!
Fantastic appointment. Abby, there’s no getting away…
Great news Abby. I am so pleased that you are still with us. Congratulations, a well deserved appointment.
Andy
Well done from all at Wiltshire
it does not say how much they are Payed ?
BE have full time staff
David,
These are volunteer roles for LJ Manager and Deputy therefore no pay. I believe they get an enhanced subsistence for the tournament
Dear friends, thank you so much for your really kind words. I was overwhelmed to read your lovely messages. Thank you all for appointing me as Hon Vice President of our Association, and I accept this as a great honour. The BLJAofE has been a huge part of my badminton life and this appointment will enable me to keep in touch with the affairs of the Association, and with all the great friends I have. Life continues to be busy for me in caring for my wife, and this appointment has been a wonderful morale booster for me.
Thank you my dear friends.
Fantastic news Abby! You have added so much value to the Line Judge Association, and it is an honour to know you as a friend. Congratulations!!