Why I Fell in Love with Badminton...

Badminton has been a significant part of my life since I was 10 years old. What started as a simple interest quickly blossomed into a lifelong passion, shaping my journey in ways I could never have imagined.

The Early Days

I vividly remember the first time I picked up a badminton racket. The thrill of hitting the shuttlecock and the joy of playing with friends were enough to get me hooked. As I spent more time on the court, I realized that badminton was more than just a game; it was a way to challenge myself, both physically and mentally.

Representing Sri Lanka

My dedication to the sport paid off when I had the honor of representing Sri Lanka in prestigious tournaments such as the Youth Commonwealth Games, the Asian Junior Championships, and the World Junior Badminton Championships. These experiences were invaluable, teaching me the importance of discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. Competing at an international level was a dream come true and solidified my love for badminton.

A New Chapter in New Zealand

In 2020, I moved to New Zealand, where my badminton journey truly evolved. That year, I competed in the ABC Tournament, winning in both the ‘A’ and ‘B’ categories. I was honored with the Senior Recognition Trophy at the WBA Awards and named People’s Choice Sportsperson at the Waikato Sport & Active Recreation Awards. Fast forward to 2025, and the journey reached new heights—I was awarded Masters Player of the Year at the Waikato Badminton Association Annual Awards, secured the #1 ranking in New Zealand Masters (Men’s Singles), and claimed titles at the Hawke’s Bay Masters Open, NZ Masters National Championships, and BOP Masters Champs in the Men’s Singles 35+ category. Additionally, I was part of the Slazenger Cup team that finished as runners-up in the Inter-Association Championship. These achievements are more than personal milestones - they reflect the incredible support and encouragement I’ve received from the badminton community in New Zealand.

Coaching and Giving Back

Today, as a BWF Level 1 badminton coach, I have the privilege of helping kids and adults excel in their badminton journeys. Coaching allows me to share my passion and knowledge with others, fostering a new generation of players who will hopefully fall in love with the sport just as I did. Seeing my students improve and enjoy the game is incredibly rewarding and reminds me of why I started playing in the first place.

Conclusion

Badminton has given me so much more than I could ever give back. It has taught me life lessons, provided me with unforgettable experiences, and connected me with amazing people around the world. My journey with badminton is far from over, and I look forward to many more years of playing, coaching, and sharing my love for this incredible sport.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. I hope my story inspires you to pick up a racket and discover the joy of badminton for yourself.