At 88, Arthur's journey with badminton stretches across decades, filled with vibrant memories, lifelong friendships, and an unwavering commitment to the game. His story captures the heart and soul of badminton's community spirit, from his early days playing in local clubs to his time as a revered life member at Auckland Badminton Association (ABA).

Arthur's badminton journey took off when he joined the Auckland Badminton Association at 33. He recalls the days they would play in a modest church hall in Pakuranga, eventually rallying to enter a team into the interclub competition. “We had a great group of people, and that’s where it all began,” he reminisces. His club eventually folded, but his passion for badminton deepened as he joined the Monday Night Summer Club. It was here he met his long-time friend Bill Greaves. “Bill ran the Summer Club back then. He would have been a couple of years younger than me, but he was someone you could always count on," Arthur shared with a warm smile. "After our matches, 30 or 40 of us would sit in the lounge together. We used to have some great times.”

Arthur's dedication led him through various levels of the sport, from club play to Masters, Vets, and even the Super Vets competitions. It was not until about ten years ago that he hung up his racquet, having played competitively well into his seventies. Yet his involvement with badminton was never limited to just playing matches; Arthur's commitment extended into nurturing the environment where he and others thrived. He fondly recalls his time at the stadium, where he would help maintain the facility, even painting the steps that lead up to the control room. "I had a lot of good years around here," he says. "I loved my time here and made many friends all over the country."

As a life member, Arthur has witnessed generations of players come and go, each leaving their mark on the sport and the ABA community. His advice for young players is timeless: “Just do the best you can, enjoy it while you can, and just enjoy the game.” His simple, heartfelt words speak to the core of what badminton meant to him—a game filled with camaraderie, resilience, and joy.

Arthur’s enduring presence at ABA serves as a reminder of the friendships and memories built on the court. As the community looks forward to welcoming him back to the stadium, Arthur's legacy continues to inspire. His journey through the game, dedication, and friendships reflect the best of what the badminton community aspires to be.

Article added: Wednesday 13 November 2024