Source: Action Images/RITZAU SCANPIX
[Saba Sports News] Robbie Thackham, coach and development manager of the Oceania Badminton Association, is conducting a third U19 training camp for Mariana Islands players ahead of the 2024 Northern Marianas Open and the 2024 Saipan International Championships. The training camp, taking place at the Mariana High School gymnasium from Tuesday to Sunday, aims to help coaches master techniques for developing young players. Thackham noted significant improvements in the children’s badminton skills compared to the previous year but acknowledged that they are not accustomed to training throughout the day. The training camp’s purpose is to enhance the players’ net skills and teach them how to maintain stability under greater pressure and faster movements. This year, Thackham invited New Zealand player Edward Lau, currently ranked 155th in the world in men’s singles, to assist the players in the training camp and improve their game. Ultimately, the training camp aims to prepare the CNMI players for the upcoming World Youth Badminton Championships in September. Thackham believes that the CNMI players will perform well in the World Junior Championships.