County Match Secretary's Report for Season 2002-2003 Season
I am pleased to report that all 3 teams have retained their divisional status in the ICC, in a season of consolidation. In fact, up until the end of the season, both 1st (Premier B) and 2nd (Regional 1B) teams were challenging for promotion / play-off places. However, our ambitions were again thwarted by player availability problems caused not only by International Events, but also by World Class Training Days. I can only conclude, therefore, that if the ICC is to be a true reflection of the relative strength of Inter-County Badminton, then the BA of E must take positive steps to ensure the increased availability of both Senior & Junior International Players for these fixtures.
Once again, the 1st Team were indebted to Nathan Robertson (2 matches), Anthony Clark (2 matches) and especially David Lindley (6 matches) for their assistance in retaining Premier B status. In addition, there were valuable contributions from the remainder of the squad and in particular 2 of our emerging younger stars, Neil White and Robert Adcock.
The 2nd Team enjoyed their most successful season for many years, eventually finishing a close 3rd in Division 1 B behind Herts 2 and Essex 2. This performance was built around a stable squad of experienced County Players, many of whom gave invaluable support to the 1st Team when required.
In contrast, the 3rd Team had a very difficult season in Division 3A, having to contend not only with the loss of key players to higher teams, but also being required to compete against 2 excellent sides - Lincoln 1 and North Strathclyde. Nevertheless, the squad, which consisted of a mixture of experienced and developing players, ensured survival by taking maximum points against Durham 2.
The Senior County Squad is not just about our Star Players - of whom we are justifiably proud - but also Player Development, and for this reason we are reinstating the 4th Team for next season. Our aim is to ensure that those players on the fringe of 3rd Team selection, including those graduating from our successful County Schools Squad, are given greater opportunities to develop the competitive skills required to command regular places in the higher teams.
Thank you to Peter Herrity for organising the County Training Evenings, and also to Karen Peatfield and Matthew Tongue for their assistance with Team Selection during the season. In addition, thanks to Helen Ward for her help with management of the 3rd Team, including the trip to Scotland. Finally - and most importantly -thanks to all the Players who have demonstrated support for Nottinghamshire Badminton, by their continued application and commitment throughout the season.
John Ellis – County Match Secretary