Bill McMahon, BWF Certified Level 1 Coach

Grew up in Niagara Falls, NY, on the US - Canadian border, where I was taught badminton by Hall of Fame members Béa Massman and Ethel Marshall. For whatever reason, that area was a hotbed for badminton with several national champions, world class competitors, and numerous tournaments. Played competitive junior badminton since age of 10 in US and southern Ontario, and later at Duke for the past 50+ years; winner of several US national senior singles and doubles titles, and several regional and national tournament championships in singles, doubles and mixed doubles; my love for badminton extends beyond accomplishments to a sport requiring speed, mental and physical quickness and strength, and is increasing in popularity on local and global levels.

As an older player, I marvel at the change in the sport from my early years with respect to strategy, equipment and training. With proper training and technique, badminton can be enjoyed and played for many decades. Some of the more recent developments in the game, locally, are its popularity and the skill and successes of its younger players. Embracing the sport’s popularity, nurturing and promoting its juniors and competitive players, and enhancing the social connections that players love, it’s a challenge to juggle these important priorities. Really, it’s a “good problem”. I am very proud to be able to address the badminton community’s concern on the Advisory Board of TBTT.