The Auckland Badminton Association (ABA) has unveiled key updates to its representative program for the 2025 season, set to begin on October 1, 2024. These updates, which are now available on the ABA website [here](https://www.sporty.co.nz/aba/REPRESENTATIVE/overview), reflect ABA's ongoing commitment to developing top-tier players and enhancing training opportunities.

"We are very excited about the updates we’ve made to keep improving our program," Tony Naidu, ABA Development Manager shared. "These changes reflect feedback from stakeholders and will help elevate the performance of our players at both junior and senior levels."

Some of the program highlights include:

- Cross Training Opportunities: Athletes in the Wisden, Performance, and Emerging squads will have the chance to compete against higher-level players, helping them push their boundaries and improve.

- Expanded Training Sessions: More training opportunities will be available for top squads, with sessions scheduled in both the morning and afternoon.

- Increased Sponsorship for Palmerston North: ABA has increased its sponsorship for Palmerston North while maintaining high service standards.

The representative program is at the core of ABA's strategy to remain a top-performing association in New Zealand, with a strong focus on competitions such as the Wisden Cup, Slazenger Cup, and the New Zealand Junior Team Championships (NZJTC). ABA aims to foster an environment where players can reach their full potential, whether they are targeting international success, national representation, or personal milestones.

Key Dates and Events for 2025

- Season Start: The 2024/2025 season begins on October 1, 2024, and runs through September 30, 2025. 

- NZJTC: ABA is gearing up for the New Zealand Junior Team Championships, scheduled for June 29 to July 2, 2025, in Palmerston North.

- Squad Selection: The majority of selections will occur during Term 3 of 2024, at the Yonex Youth Super League (YYSL) on Saturdays. Players not currently in ABA squads are encouraged to participate for evaluation.

- Wisden and Slazenger Cups: These senior competitions, ABA’s priority team events, are anticipated between April and August 2025, with dates to be confirmed when Badminton New Zealand releases their calendar.

Players interested in joining the 2025 ABA Representative Program are encouraged to register early, as spots are limited. Registration can be completed via [this form](https://forms.gle/g4SeY7PuVAXg91gu9), and parents of players under 19 must complete a section of the form on behalf of their child.

ABA will soon be offering opportunities for players and parents to meet with the association and ask any questions about the upcoming season.

Stay tuned for further updates and more information on the ABA website!

Article added: Monday 26 August 2024