23 January, 2024
Badminton England is delighted to announce Derek Batchelor has been voted President after serving as Vice President of the national governing body for more than three years.
Derek served as Chair for almost a decade prior to his Vice Presidency and has long been dedicated to the progression of the sport in various roles.
Following the sad passing of former President Diana Troke in October, Derek will continue to build on her legacy of growing badminton’s profile across the country.
As Chair, Derek gained huge respect among Badminton England’s stakeholders, sponsors and other influential bodies within the sport, both domestically and globally.
Derek is a former director of Badminton GB and has represented Badminton England at meetings with Sport England, UK Sport and the British Paralympic Association.
He continues to be active within his county of Bedfordshire as President and minute secretary having previously been its Chair and coaching secretary.
For 25 years, Derek coached Bedfordshire’s junior squads and brings a wealth of experience to the role both on and off the court.
Derek is accustomed to developing the next generation of badminton talent and is highly committed to growing and making the sport inclusive, in line with Badminton England’s 10-year strategy.
I am delighted, humbled, and thankful for the faith that the voting membership has placed in me to represent their views as I take over the Presidency of Badminton England – Derek Batchelor
In addition to his other current roles, Derek is a member of Badminton England’s Disciplinary Committee, the Badminton World Federation’s Heritage Working Group and the Badminton Europe Confederation’s History Working Group.
Derek will also become a Trustee of the National Badminton Museum as part of his new role.
Badminton England is thrilled to have Derek on board as President and wishes him well ahead of an exciting year for the sport.
Upon his appointment, Derek said, “I am delighted, humbled, and thankful for the faith that the voting membership has placed in me to represent their views as I take over the Presidency of Badminton England.
“I am fully aware that I am following in the footsteps of a series of exceptional Presidents and I aspire to emulate the high standards that they have set while putting my personal stamp on the role.”
Chief Executive Sue Storey said, “I am very pleased to be working with Derek Batchelor as President of Badminton England.
“Derek is a true gentleman who has always given his all to the sport in everything he does.
“He will continue his voluntary work for the Badminton World Federation as well as fulfilling his various tasks and roles for Badminton England.
“It is brilliant to have someone of Derek’s stature to fulfil his role of President and I look forward to working with him.”
