In January 2024, Coach Li Feng, with the support of the Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono, led a group of ABA’s best players to Wuhan, China, for an immersive experience in the Chinese Regional Olympic Development Program. The program, based within the Wuhan Regional Olympic Village, offers world-class sports facilities for various sports, including badminton, tennis, basketball, table tennis, and gymnastics. Witnessing the dedication, sacrifice, national pride, and determination of the players striving for Olympic greatness was truly inspiring.

ABA’s players were warmly welcomed into this environment, with coaches treating them as their own. They began each week with a Flag Raising Ceremony at 6 am on Monday morning, followed by training, playing, eating, and sleeping alongside the best badminton players in Wuhan. This experience provided our players with insights beyond badminton, allowing them to understand the culture and lifestyle of the Wuhan players. Additionally, the group explored Wuhan, visiting markets, temples, museums, and experiencing the local pool-playing culture.

The cultural exchange was profound, with players rating the experience 9.5 out of 10. They expressed their enjoyment and appreciation for the new experiences and perspectives gained. They highlighted the inclusiveness of the Chinese players and coaches, the support from the association, and the personal growth they experienced. Reflecting on the experience, players said, "It was an enjoyable and new experience of what professional badminton is like." "Overall, a very enjoyable experience with a good mixture of physical and on-court sessions. The Chinese players often interacted with us, which made us feel included, which helped me focus on training." "Throughout this trip, I can see the difference of the ability between NZ and China badminton. It was a nice experience, and I had a lot of fun. I also learned a lot of different things." "Overall great experience, would’ve preferred to stay for longer to get the most out of it."

The accommodation and food were highly praised, with players giving them a rating of 9 out of 10. They found the living conditions comfortable, and the food delicious and nutritious. They particularly enjoyed the variety of food available.

Living and training with Chinese athletes was transformative. They gained not only improved badminton skills but also a newfound respect for their Chinese counterparts. They learned about Chinese culture, tried new foods, and made lasting friendships.

Outside of training, players enjoyed visits to cultural sites such as the Yellow Crane Tower, markets, museums, temples, and local dining experiences. These activities enriched their understanding of Chinese culture and history, making their time in Wuhan truly unforgettable.

As the players returned home, they carried with them not only memories of intense training and competition but also a deeper appreciation for cultural exchange and the bonds formed through sport. The 2024 ABA Wuhan High-Performance Camp was more than just a training opportunity; it was a life-changing experience that will shape these young athletes for years to come.

An observation was made regarding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism in Wuhan, noting a decrease in non-Chinese tourists. This observation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the city in its recovery from the pandemic and the resilience of its residents in rebuilding and moving forward.

In conclusion, the 2024 ABA Wuhan High-Performance Camp was a highly valuable experience for all participants. It provided not only top-notch training and competition but also cultural immersion and personal growth. The players returned home with a deeper understanding of badminton, Chinese culture, and themselves as athletes, highlighting the success of the program and the potential for future exchanges to continue benefiting all involved.

Article added: Tuesday 07 May 2024