PERFORMANCE PROGRAM

Auckland Badminton Association (ABA) is committed to sustained success across our representative programs. Our goal is to be one of the leading Associations at major team competitions, including the Wisden Cup, Slazenger Cup, and the New Zealand Junior Team Championships (NZJTC), while developing players capable of achieving Badminton New Zealand representation.

Our representative pathway provides an environment designed to support players in reaching their full potential, whether that means international success, national selection, or achieving personal performance goals.

For seniors, the Wisden and Slazenger Cups are the key annual team priorities. We actively create opportunities for talented Under 17 and Under 19 players to compete for positions within these squads, supporting a smooth and meaningful transition from junior to senior performance levels.

For juniors, the New Zealand Junior Team Championships (NZJTC) is the primary team focus each year. Players must be between the ages of 10 and 18 to be eligible for selection. NZJTC allows our junior athletes to experience competing and travelling as a team, helping build confidence, connection, and competitive readiness.

KEY DATES

  • Our 2024/2025 representative year starts on 1 October 2024 and finishes on 30 September 2025.

  • For our Junior Program, the biggest event we build towards in the New Zealand Junior Team Championships which will be held in Palmerston North from June 29th to July 2nd, 2025.

  • Most squad selection occurs during Term 3 2024 on Saturdays during the Yonex Youth Super League (YYSL).  Players who are not in ABA squads are encouraged to sign up for YYSL to trial and allow our coaches to evaluate them for our 2024/2025 squads.

  • Wisden and Slazenger Cups do not have a set date; however, we anticipate this tournament to be held between April and August 2025, most likely at a venue within Auckland given it was in Waikato in 2024.  This date will be confirmed when BNZ publishes their 2025 calendar.

Age Group Limitations​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Under 13s – Players who turn 11, 12 in the year of competition.

  • Under 15s – Players who turn 11, 12, 13, 14 in the year of competition.

  • Under 17s – Players who turn 13, 14, 15, 16 in the year of competition.

  • Under 19s – Players who turn 15, 16, 17, 18 in the year of competition.

  • Seniors – Players who turn 15 or older in the year of competition.

HANDBOOK