Manawatū Remains Home of Junior Champs

Manawatū will remain the home of the New Zealand Junior Badminton Team Championships for another three years, thanks to a newly-signed long-term agreement between Badminton New Zealand, Palmerston North City Council, and Sport Manawatū.

Thousands of young New Zealanders have honed their skills at the event in CET Arena over the past 35 years, and this agreement will ensure that many more will experience the fun and competitive environment for years to come, building great friendships and stoking a life-long love of badminton. The annual event is a highlight of the season for junior players all around the country and Badminton New Zealand is thrilled to return to Palmerston North after a challenging 2020 season.

Badminton New Zealand Chief Executive Joe Hitchcock reflects on the importance of this event.

“We love hosting the New Zealand Junior Team Championships in Palmerston North every year. It is an influential step in the development pathway for so many badminton players and it is fantastic to witness each new generation being instilled with a love for the game as they compete here.

“Our teams always receive such incredible hospitality and warm support from the community in Manawatū, and it is a true pleasure to return each year.

The support we receive from Sport Manawatū and the Palmerston North City Council ensures that we can continue to deliver this exceptional event to the highest standard and reach as many young players as possible.

Trevor Shailer, Sport Manawatū Chief Executive says, “Sport Manawatū with Palmerston North City Council are thrilled to see the Badminton Junior Team Championships stay in Palmerston North. The city has a lot to offer the athletes and their whānau who visit the city each year for this tournament.”

The New Zealand Junior Team Championships 2021 take place at CET Arena Manawatū from 11-14 July, with over 60 teams from around New Zealand competing.

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