This new series shines a spotlight on Badminton New Zealand's hard-working Technical Official community. Hear their motivations, fun facts, pro-tips, and a few inspiring tales too!
This week we begin with Trish Gubb. Trish has been umpiring for New Zealand for over 20 years, including the past 12 as a Badminton World Federation Umpire. Over this time Trish has travelled the globe umpiring the best players in the world, has supported both Badminton New Zealand and Badminton Oceania through our Technical Official Committees and she's offered training and advice to many of the Umpires that we now see at tournaments throughout New Zealand. It's fair to say that technical officiating in New Zealand would not be what it is today, if not for Trish's hard work to grow the sport.
Badminton New Zealand would like to thank Trish for the 1000's of volunteer hours she's contributed, her willingness to continually challenge all around her to reach their potential and for being a tremendous ambassador for Badminton New Zealand worldwide.
Role: BWF Umpire (since 2011)
Association: Auckland
Nickname: Hsirt (from my Dragon Boating days)
Best Kiwi Holiday Destination: Taupō
Favourite Travel Meal: The local delicacies - just not too spicy!!
Tell us about your background in badminton prior to officiating.
I began playing badminton with my family at the age of five and then club and inter-club from nine years old. Through my younger years I never made a regional team and then as an adult I never really left D-Grade. You can be sure that my playing skills did not get me where I am today and my doubles serves are definitely not legal!
What do you enjoy most about officiating?
I love the concept of 'fair to both sides' and being able to deliver that for players. I also appreciate all of the people I work with and the great friends that I have made!
Do you have a dream event to attend or goal to achieve?
I have been lucky enough to achieve many of my goals, but I am very much looking forward to attending The All England Championships this year. As the oldest tournament in the world I have long wanted to officiate there.
What is your best badminton story?
Umpiring the Men’s Singles Final at the Tokyo Olympics! It was my proudest moment ever to be selected for that match and it was such an honour to be trusted to deliver it.
What is your top tip that you would like to share with our officiating community?
Treat every match as if it was the most important match that you have ever worked. Use all of your skills to deliver the best presentation and fairest result for the players. And remember, every match is someone's final!
We wish Trish the best of luck as she represents New Zealand once again at the All England Championships next month.
If you're interested in following in Trish's footsteps and beginning your career as a badminton umpire, please reach out to Sam Paterson (sam@badminton.org.nz) to discuss upcoming opportunities.