HE MAY not have been old enough to compete at the Commonwealth Games, but young badminton prospect Thomas Weaver has already taken an important step in the right direction.
Although just seven-years-old, his coaches at Alveston Juniors saw the potential and invited Warwickshire’s coaching manager to take a look.
After a successful trial period, Thomas was delighted to be offered a place in the county’s U11 squad for the coming season.
The club run an innovative Wacky Racquets ‘badminfun’ section for raw beginners aged six and above and think they have unearthed a gem this time.
“To be offered a place at his age is a fantastic achievement.” said the club’s head coach Chris Osborne.
“We’ve had a couple join the county squad at eight-years-old who are both still with Warwickshire and now in the U13 squad, but Thomas has pushed the boundary further still.
“He’s already got a strong arm, co-ordination and enthusiasm – that gives us a great base to build on.
“We’ve got around 20 county players within the club but Thomas is certainly the youngest.”
For proud mum Claire it is a case of deja vu as she herself was once a county junior and she is thrilled to see him following her into a sport she loves.
For youngsters who want to follow Thomas’ example and give badminton a try, Alveston continue their Stratford club sessions through the summer holidays and interested parents should contact the club via their website – www.alvestonjuniors.co.uk – to arrange a free trial session.
