Shiblu joined Bidgley’s coaching project when he was 12 year old and has been with us for 3 years now. We identified him as a keen individual with a lot of natural talent and the ability to grasp the concepts of badminton very quickly. He has played in the Bidgley youth squad and represented the club on many occasions in the Birmingham Badminton League. He recently had the opportunity to work as a leader and help support other local young people, passing on vital skills that he has learnt.

The Impact of Aston Villa Premier League for Sports

There are many young people like Shiblu in the Aston and Lozells area of Birmingham that have a lot of talent and gifted within sports. One of barriers within these areas are the lack of opportunities and specialised clubs were young people can be supported to learn new skills and play sports with the support from qualified coaches. Aston Villa Premier League 4 Sport project has enabled young people to have these opportunities where they can learn, keep active and play Badminton locally. Shilblu has benefited firstly by having specialised coaching and secondly the opportunity to be a role model for other young people and help support them. Shiblu comes along to the Aston Manor satellite club on a Saturday morning as a volunteer to support the coaches and help develop badminton for the younger children; he plays a key role in this club and provides necessary support. The impact of funding from PL4S is essential for keeping young people engaged, motivated and providing sporting opportunities locally for young people to be a part of. Having positive structured activities also means that young people can stay away from risky activities.  

Future

Shiblu recently had a trial with Warwickshire County and has been selected to play for them. The results have been very positive and we wish Shiblu all the success in future and maybe who knows, we might see him play in the Olympics! 

Alfu Miah, Bidgley Badminton head coach commented, ‘We hope Aston Villa’s PL4S see the benefits it provides to young people living in these inner-city communities and continue to support more young people develop healthier pastimes and opportunities to peruse playing their chosen sport’.