Somersfield Staff Excels at UK Badminton Tournament
National badminton coach Aaron Simmons and Somersfield’s Director of Activities Emma Moran-Lee recently competed at the UK Avon Tier 4 International Badminton Tournament—bringing back some impressive results!
Aaron secured an outstanding 3rd place finish in the men’s singles, advancing through a competitive draw and meeting the eventual tournament winner in the semifinals. Emma delivered a strong performance in the ladies’ singles, taking the winner to three intense sets and ultimately earning a well-deserved 2nd place. Their efforts are a testament to their skill, preparation, and commitment to excellence in the sport.
The Avon tournament is part of a national series structured across five tiers—Gold, Silver, Bronze, Tier 4, and Social—offering competitive opportunities for players at every level. Players earn national ranking points and are assigned a grading after their first event, helping guide them to appropriate future tournaments.
Badminton has a rich history, with roots tracing back to Pune, India in the 1870s, when British expatriates began formalising the sport—though similar racquet games had been played across Eurasia for centuries.
Aaron’s skill and enthusiasm for badminton continue to impact the Somersfield community. He has launched an afterschool club for P5 and P6 students, aiming to help them develop their skills and dream big—perhaps even becoming Bermuda’s next #1!
Emma and Aaron have been coaching and inspiring Somersfield’s badminton teams for the past seven years. Their dedication is evident, and their recent performances serve as powerful examples for our students. It is clear that both are not only passionate athletes but also mentors who are committed to developing the next generation of players.
