County Match Secretary's Report for Season 2004-2005 Season

John Ellis reported that at first glance, the Senior County Teams performed well throughout the season, with the 1st Team again achieving 7th place in Premier B, whilst the 2nd Team won Regional 2B. Unfortunately, the ICC Policy Group, in their wisdom, decided to reverse an earlier decision and relegate 4 teams from Premier B, in order to avoid play-offs in Regional 1. This decision had received no mandate from the County Match Secretaries Meeting in May, and despite protests from several Counties the change was upheld, in December, by the Competitive Play Board of Badminton England. Consequently, the 1st Team are relegated to Regional 1, thereby denying the 2nd Team a deserved promotion, following relegation last year.

Nevertheless, I must thank David Lindley, in particular, for his continued support throughout the Premier B campaign, which also confirmed the emerging talents of Neil White and the extent to which Robert Adcock's contribution was missed on that final weekend - Robert having won 2 Silver Medals at the European U-19's despite an injury.

The 2nd Team always looked capable of winning their Division, despite the sustained challenge from Bedfordshire. This success was built on outstanding performances from Jane Tarrant, Sam Wadsworth and Matthew Tongue, ably supported by the rest of the team.

In contrast, the 3rd Team had a difficult season, with numerous changes of personnel. Nevertheless, they competed well in a strong Division, managing to take points off all the other sides, including Yorkshire 4. Special thanks to Ellen Housley, whose continued enthusiasm and commitment, coupled with some excellent performances from Toby Massey, contributed to the team's eventual survival at the expense of Northumberland 2.

Although the 4th Team struggled to secure points in a strong Division, it did provide our new associate members with the opportunity to develop - thereby creating an all-important link between the County Teams and Club Badminton.

Finally, I wish to mention two of our longest serving Squad Members, Matthew Tongue and Dale Twigger, who have both confirmed their intention to retire from County badminton - their commitment and contribution will be missed.

The Individual Awards for the season are as follows -

Most improved Player of the Year - Robert Adcock
In the past 3 seasons Robert has developed from a talented junior into a player on the brink of international stardom. His record of achievement includes European U19 Silver Medals at both Men's and Mixed Doubles in addition to the National U19 Titles at both events. He was subsequently selected for his first Senior International as reward for his achievements. Nevertheless Robert has remained a committed member of the County Squad, despite only being available for one Premier B weekend this season - missing the first for the World Juniors, and the last through injury sustained in the European Juniors. He was extremely disappointed to miss out on that final weekend - and we certainly missed his contribution - but has confirmed his intention to remain loyal to Nottinghamshire despite relegation, and ensure a rapid return to the top flight.

Squad Player of the Year - Ellen Housley
Despite not starting her County career until 2001, as an occasional 4th Team player and subsequently a reserve for the 3d Team, Ellen has proved to be a more than capable Mixed Doubles Player and an enthusiastic and committed member of the squad, never complaining and always willing to fill-in at short notice when the need arises - several times during the past 3 seasons. We are grateful that Ellen has resisted the temptation to join the Veterans - although she was accused of acting like a "School Teacher" whilst trying to organise players for an important Away Match against Cumbria - without her determination the 3d Team might not have avoided relegation this season.

Outstanding County Appearance Awards Prior to this Season

End Of Season Analysis Reports For Senior County Teams

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