SHUTTLE TIME

Cook Islands: Every child has a right to play

For many older Cook Islanders they were first introduced to badminton while living in New Zealand & Australia. And on returning to the islands brought with them the beautiful game and have been playing socially for many years. However, for the code to continue into the future, we need to get our children involved at the domestic and international level.

The Cook Islands consists of 15 Islands scattered over 2 million square kilometers in the Pacific Ocean, with Rarotonga being the capital Island. With the delivery of the Shuttle Time, mainly focused in Rarotonga, our plan is to also expand our facilities to the outer islands, where Aitutaki and Atiu have already been setup. With the training, equipment and resources, we hope to inspire every individual to pick up a racquet and play for life.

“Shuttle Time has allowed badminton to be enjoyed by our children. We hope with Shuttle Time’s continuous involvement in our schools, we will one day produce a champion of our own.”

Mr. Thomas Mereana-Ngauru – CIBA President

Creative use of Shuttle Time

Shuttle Time has been implemented in the schools by including it as part of their physical education classes with inter-school competitions run twice a year. In 2015, the Inaugural Inter-college competition was a huge success. Teachers and parents were excited with how much the children enjoyed the programme and look forward to carrying on this year. During the programme, CIBA were able to identify some talented young players who we have begun working with to prepare them for age group competitions in the region.

Shuttle Time Cook Island is targeted at everyone but more towards youngsters between the ages of 8 -13. We currently have more male players so we are encouraging more female players to participate.

Cook Islands Badminton Association endeavors to make badminton more accessible by:

• Implementing Shuttle Time into the College & Primary School Curriculum
• Having badminton available at local sports festivals
• Providing after school and weekend lessons for all ages, youth, church & sport groups
• Establishing new facilities around the island for easier access