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The following articles appeared in Aberdeen Journals Evening Express on the dates indicated, subject to editorial adjustment.
The new badminton league season has now got underway. Six teams were in action in the gents leagues. In Division One of the Gents League, Fetteresso started the defence of their title in fine style with a 9-0 thumping of Division One newcomers, University at the Butchart Recreation Centre. The Varsity are weakened this season with the defection of their best player Chee Goh to Gordonians. Goh was in action for his new team in a difficult away match against Summerhill, winning two rubbers out of three with partner Alan Fish. Gordonians won the match 6-3 with Martin Stuart and Craig Walker "top dogs", winning all three of their rubbers in straight sets. Dougie Buchan and Mark Beattie won twice for the losers.
In Division Two of the Gents League Westhill faced a derby clash against close rivals Beacon. Unfortunately the match ran out of time with the score 4-3 in favour of Beacon, with two rubbers outstanding. The match will be recommenced on Wednesday 29 October. Another match in the same division, Racquets Vs Banchory had to be postponed and will have to be rearranged for a date before Christmas.
The North East Group of Badminton Scotland will hold their 56th Restricted Tournament this November. The tournament which was not played last year will take place in conjunction with the Beacon Badminton Group at the Beacon Education Centre on the 15 and 16 of November 2003. Players should note that the Mixed Doubles Open event will take place at Kincorth Sports Centre on Friday 14 November starting at 6pm. Details and entry forms for the tournament can be obtained from Andy Alexander the Tournament Referee. Andy can be contacted at 01224 740366 (email:[email protected]). Entry forms are also available on the League's Web Site at www.aberdeenbadminton.co.uk The closing date for entries is Wednesday 5 November 2003.
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 1 NOVEMBER 2003
STUDENTS FIND IT TOUGH IN TOP FLIGHT
Aberdeen University are finding life tough at the top. Following the promotion of both their mixed and gent's first teams to Division One of the Aberdeen Leagues in convincing style last season, neither team has yet recorded a victory this season. Their mixed team, however, put up a spirited show against CAS. Playing at home the students went down by the narrowest of margins, by 5 rubbers to 4 and even managed to record more individual games than their opponents with a score of 11-10. Steve Thomson and Anne Shipley of CAS were the crucial factor in the away team's victory, winning all three of their rubbers.
In Division Two of the Mixed League, Beacon got of to a good start with a solid 7-2 home victory over Banchory. Alan Keith and Louise Yule won three times for Beacon, whilst Jim Beaton and Hilary Cowe secured both of Banchory's rubbers. In the Gents Division Two Beacon just failed to make it two wins out of two. Playing away to Westhill, in a match that did not finish a few weeks ago, Beacon came back to play the final two rubbers leading 4-3 in the match. Westhill, howver had other ideas and took the last two rubbers, to win the match 5-4. Seasoned campaigners Ali Dow and Drew Clunie took all three of their rubbers for the home team.
Competition time is almost upon senior badminton in Aberdeen. The North East Restricted Badminton Tournament gets underway on the 14 November and runs for three days at Kincorth Sports Centre (Friday) and the Beacon Education Centre (Saturday and Sunday). Clubs and players are reminded that entry forms must be submitted by 5 November. Also coming up is the Senior Inter-Group Competition which will be played at the Cockburn Centre, Glasgow on 30 November 2003 and the Invitational Level Doubles Tournament, which will be played at Kincorth Sports Centre on 14 December 2003.
Fixtures for the Coming Week:
Sunday 2 November 2003
Portlethen Vs University (Mixed Division One)
Fetteresso Vs Central Buchan Mixed Division One)
Friday 7 November 2003
CAS Vs Racquets (Mixed Division One)
Banchory Vs Grampian Police (Mixed Division Two)
Saturday 8 November 2003
Cults CC Vs Westhill (Mixed Division Two)
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 8 NOVEMBER 2003
FETTERESSO STILL THE TEAM TO BEAT
Fetteresso are still the team to beat in the Aberdeen Leagues. The reigning Mixed and Gents Division One champions are in irresistible form at the moment. In Division One of the Mixed League, playing away to Racquets, Fetteresso won 9-1, with Colin Anderson and Nicola Bruce winning the sole rubber for the losers. Fetteresso then played a home match against Central Buchan and demolished the Broch team 9-0 with Richard Burnett and Lindsay Roberston of Central Buchan winning a sole game to prevent a whitewash by their opponents in both rubbers and games.
In the same Division, University got on the winning trail with a 6-3 away victory over Portlethen. Mike Sedgwick and Stine Strandfelt were the heroes for the Varsity, winning all three of their rubbers. Portlethen's top couple, Craig Stewart and Carolyn Ripley won twice for the losers. Portlethen were unlucky on the night, as they lost all four of the rubbers that went to the full three sets.
University B were in action in Division Three of the Gents League winning 6-3 away to Bridge of Don. The students will again be challenging for promotion this season, however they will face strong competition from Grampian Police. The force, who were relegated from Division Two last season got off to a flier with a 9-0 away win against 71 Club at Kingswells. Hazelehead juniors, Kris Stuart and Jamie Colvin did well for the home team, taking the Police's third couple to three sets.
Fixtures for the Coming Week:
Sunday 9 November 2003
Gordonians Vs University (Gents Division One)
Fetteresso Vs Portlethen (Gents Division One)
Fetteresso B Vs Beacon (Gents Division Two)
Grampian Police Vs Bridge of Don (Gents Division Three)
Thursday 13 November 2003
Racquets Vs Westhill (Gents Division Two)
Friday 14 November 2003
Summerhill Vs Central Buchan (Gents Division One)
University Vs 71 Club (Gents Division Three)
Friday 14 - Sunday 16 November 2003
North East Restricted Badminton Tournament
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 15 NOVEMBER 2003
GORDONIANS GET INTO GEAR
Gordonians are now getting into gear in Division One of the Gents League. Last season's runners-up went head to head against Central Buchan with the men from Mintlaw losing by 6 rubbers to 3. Martin Stuart and Nigel Toner were in top gear winning all three of their rubbers in straight sets. Seasoned campaigners Richard Burnett and Michael Gammack took two rubbers for the losers with Craig Walker and Philip Anderson of Gordonians, retiring in their final rubber. Gordonians now move ahead of Fetteresso at the top of Division One.
In Division Three of the Gents League, Grampian Police clearly stated their intentions to bounce straight back to Division Two. Taking no prisoners the Police defeated Bridge of Don by 9 rubbers to 0. Ally Minty and Mike Booth salvaged some pride for the losers taking two of their rubbers to three sets. The Police now stand two points clear at the top of Division Three.
Banchory ladies were in fine form in their visit to Portlethen. The Deeside girls defeated Portlethen by three rubbers to one, in a match that H Beaton and J Durward of Banchory won two tough three setters. Banchory now move level on points with Fetteresso.
The finals of the North East Restricted Badminton Tournament will be played at the Beacon Education Centre at Bucksburn on Sunday afternoon, from 2pm onwards.
Fixtures for the Coming Week:
Monday 17 November 2003
Central Buchan Vs University (Mixed Division One)
Tuesday 18 November 2003
Grampian Police Vs Beacon (Mixed Division Two)
Wednesday 19 November 2003
Westhill Vs Banchory (Mixed Division Two)
Friday 21 November 2003
University Vs Fetteresso (Mixed Division One)
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 22 NOVEMBER 2003
STEVE AND RACHAEL LAND TITLE HAT-TRICKS
From the back Robert Keith, Shona Gatt, Anne Shipley, Colin Ross, Steve Thomson, Malcolm Campbell, Paul Wilson, and Andy Alexander - from the front Pam Cowell, Jane Aitcheson and Margaret Duncan
Steve Thomson of CAS badminton club was in top form at the North East Restricted Badminton Tournament held at the Beacon Education Centre at Bucksburn last weekend. Steve took three of the open titles. In the final of the gents singles Steve defeated Graham Ross of Fetteresso 15-6,15-12. He then went on in partnership with Colin Ross of Fetteresso to lift the gents open title beating the Fetteresso pairing of Jason Guyan and Graham Ross 15-3, 17-14. To round of a fruitful weekend, Steve partnered team mate Anne Shipley to win the open mixed doubles title, winning 15-4,15-10 against Colin Ross and Jane Aitcheson in the final.
It was a good weekend for Rachael Rennie of Aberdeen University too, who also lifted three north east titles. Rachael won the open ladies singles event with a walk over in the final against team mate, Stine Strandfelt, who scratched. The two girls then teamed up in the open ladies doubles event to win a pool of five players. Jane Aitcheson of CAS and Nicola Bruce of Racquets were the runners up. Rachael then completed her hat trick by partnering University team mate, Mike Sedgewick in the Handicap Mixed Doubles to a 15-7, 15-10 victory over Fetteresso's Robert Keith and Pam Cowell.
In the other handicap events Colin Ross won his second title of the tournament. Partnering Malcolm Campbell of Westhill they defeated Fetteresso, stalwarts, Ross Watson and Andy Hinchcliffe 15-10, 15-12 in the final. This was Malcolm's first north east title in 25 years of competing in the tournament. The ladies handicap doubles was won by Stacey Wood and Julie Price of Portlethen who defeated Shona Gatt of Westhill and Margaret Duncan of Fetteresso 15-10, 15-8 in the final.
Two seniors events were played. In the gents doubles Paul Wilson and Robert Keith of Fetteresso beat Colin Ross and Andy Alexander 15-12. Paul, one of the younger seniors, won his second title of the tournament by taking the senior mixed doubles with club partner Margaret Duncan. Runners up were Robert Keith and Pam Cowell.
In the Junior section Kieran Hendry won the Under 19 boys singles event defeating Kyle Duncan 17-14,15-10 in the final. The Under 15 boys singles was won by Banchory's Richard Perry who beat Logan Neave 15-0, 15-12 in the final. Stacey Wood won her second title of the tournament winning the Under 19 girls singles event. Kathryn Wardrope was the runner up. In the Under 15 girls singles Ruth Seery finished runner up to Nicola McAuley.
There was little action in the Leagues as a result of the tournament. Fetteresso B did however manage a Division Two Gents match in which they defeated Beacon by 7 rubbers to 2.
Fixtures for the Coming Week:
Sunday 23 November 2003
Grampian Police Vs University B (Mens Division Three)
Bridge of Don Vs 71 Club (Mens Division Three)
Gordonians Vs Fetteresso (Mens Division One)
Portlethen Vs Summerhill (Mens Division One)
Wednesday 26 November 2003
Westhill Vs Fetteresso B (Mens Division Two)
Thursday 27 November 2003
Racquets Vs Banchory (Ladies Division One)
Friday 28 November 2003
University Vs Central Buchan (Mens Division One)
Beacon Vs Banchory (Mens Division Two)
CAS Vs Fetteresso (Ladies Division One)
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 29 NOVEMBER 2003
SUMMERHILL CHALLENGE BIG GUNS
Summerhill Badminton Club are again challenging the established clubs in Division One of the Gents League. With back to back wins in the space of three days, Summerhill now lie top of the league by virtue of their superior rubbers over Gordonians. On the Friday they defeated Central Buchan courtesy of a 6-3 home victory. Two days later on the Sunday they won a tight 5-4 battle against Portlethen. Dougie Buchan and Mark Beattie were top dogs winning all three of their rubbers.
Racquets were in action twice in Division Two of the Gents League. In two home matches they defeated Westhill by 7 rubbers to 2 and then Banchory by 9 rubbers to 0. This moves them clear at the top of the Division and a good bet for promotion this season. In Division Three of the Gents League, 71 Club played twice. In a spirited performance they narrowly went down 5-4 away to University B. They then went on to win by the same 5-4 margin away to Bridge of Don. Ian Jamieson and Lindsay Kessack won three times for 71 Club to secure an important victory. Grampian Police and University B remain in the top two positions in the Division with full points from their matches.
University are making an early impact on Division One of the Mixed League. They moved into second place with a 6-3 away victory against Central Buchan. Mike Sedgewick and Stine Strandfelt were in fine form for the students winning all three of their rubbers in straight sets. In Division Two of the Mixed League Beacon were emphatic 9-0 winners against Grampian Police. Robin Ripley and Mandy Watson took the sole game for the Police losing in a three setter to Mike Crusoe and Janice Gordon.
Confirmation has now been received that the League's annual Club Doubles Tournament will take place at the Shell Pecten Club at Woodbank House, Pitfodels, Aberdeen on Saturday 7 February 2004. Entry forms will be sent out to clubs early in the New Year.
Fixtures for the Coming Week:
Sunday 30 November 2003
Portlethen Vs Fetteresso (Mixed Division One)
Thursday 4 December 2003
Racquets Vs University (Mixed Division One)
Friday 5 December 2003
Beacon Vs Westhill (Mixed Division Two)
CAS Vs Central Buchan (Mixed Division One)
Banchory Vs Cults CC (Mixed Division Two)
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 6 DECEMBER 2003
FETTERESSO "B" ON A ROLL TO THE TOP
Fetteresso B have found their form in Division Two of the Gents League. The Stoney boys were in action twice in November. Their first opponents were Banchory who were disposed of by 9 rubbers to 0 in straight sets at Banchory. Fetteresso then went out to Westhill and defeated the home team 7-2, with Tim Westloft and Robbie Christie dropping two rubbers for the visitors. This now puts Fetteresso B two points clear at the top of the Division. Their match against Racquets scheduled for Sunday now becomes vital to determining who will be promotion favourites this season.
In the same Division, Beacon are gaining in strength with the arrival of Mike Kinghorn from Garioch. They pushed aside the efforts of Banchory to record an 8-1 home victory. J Gaton and Andrew Wride took the sole rubber for the losers. Banchory, last season's Division Three champions, now lie bottom of the Division with no victories from their first three matches. In Division One of the Gents League, Central Buchan recorded their first victory of the season with a close encounter against University at the Butchart Recreation Centre. The Buchan lads won 5-4 with Martin Gammack and Richard Burnett the heroes winning all three of their rubbers in straight sets. This pulls Central Buchan two points clear of Portlethen and University at the bottom of the Division.
Westhill were in action against Banchory in Division Two of the mixed league. The Aberdeenshire team weakened by the late pull out of the injured Shona Gatt, put up a sterling performance to win, what was their home match by 7 rubbers to 2. Top couple Ross Watson and Lynne Wilson were well supported by Drew Clunie, Sheena Dow, Elaine Walker and promising youngster Nicol Webster.
Clubs are urged to complete all this half of the season's fixtures before the 31 December 2003, unless they have permission to carry over fixtures into 2004.
Fixtures for the Coming Week:
Sunday 7 December 2003
Portlethen Vs Gordonians (Mens Division One)
Fetteresso B Vs Racquets (Mens Division Two)
Monday 8 December 2003
Central Buchan Vs Fetteresso (Mens Division One)
Tuesday 9 December 2003
Grampian Police Vs Portlethen (Ladies Division One)
Thursday 11 December 2003
Racquets Vs University (Ladies Division One)
Friday 12 December 2003
Summerhill Vs University (Mens Division One)
CAS Vs Portlethen (Mixed Division One) Banchory Vs Westhill (Mens Division Two)
Saturday 13 December 2003
Cults CC Vs Beacon (Mixed Division Two)
Also published in paper were the results of the Aberdeen/Aberdeenshire Primary Schools Badminton Singles Tournament held at Kemnay Academy and the up to date League Tables.
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 13 DECEMBER 2003
STUDENTS DUMP THE CHAMPS
University have passed their first major test in Division One of the Mixed League with flying colours. Playing against Fetteresso, champions for the past three seasons, a University team boosted by the return of their Chinese stars Nicky and Eunice Lo showed their opponents that they were no respecters of reputations. In a quite amazing match the students secured a 9-0 victory over their illustrious opponents. The champions did not go down without a fight and took five of the rubbers to three sets. The previous night University had played away to Racquets and recorded another 9-0 victory with a slightly different, but certainly not weaker team. University now have 8 points from 5 matches and lie four points clear of their nearest rivals, Fetteresso, who have played two matches fewer.
Fetteresso, last season's Division One's Gents champions, had no better luck in one of their gents matches. Strengthened by the arrival of triple North East title winner, Steve Thomson, they fell to their great rivals Gordonians. In the tightest of matches, Liew Nam Min and Craig Walker were the heroes for Gordonians winning all three of their rubbers to nurse home their team to a 5-4 home victory. Gordonians then went on to record a 6-3 away victory over Portlethen. Liew Nam Min and Chee Goh won three times for Gordonians who have a 100% record in the Division and lie 4 points ahead of their nearest rivals, Summerhill.
In Division Two of the Mixed League, Westhill put a stop to Beacon's good run with a fighting 6-3 away victory. Boosted by the addition of Maureen McFarland to their team and the return of the injured Shona Gatt, Westhill now lie level on points with Beacon but with a match in hand.
The Invitational Level Doubles Tournament will be played at Kincoth Sports Centre this Sunday from 2-6pm. Last years winners of the Gents event were Craig Stewart of Portlethen and Craig Walker of Gordonians. Pauline Duncan of Fetteresso and Nicola Bruce of Racquets are the current holders of the Ladies title.
Fixtures for the Coming Week:
Monday 15 December 2003
Central Buchan Vs Racquets (Mixed Division One)
Wednesday 16 December 2003
Westhill Vs Grampian Police (Mixed Division Two)
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 20 DECEMBER 2003
POWER AND EXPERIENCE LAND TITLE FOR TOP TWO
Liew Nam Min and Bob Glennie made the most of their invite to the North East Badminton Group's annual Invitational Level Doubles Tournament. Playing at Kincorth Sports Centre, Liew of Gordonians and Bob from CAS Badminton Club were drawn out of the hat together and proved a killer combination of power and experience. They finished top of a pool of three couples, defeating the pairings of Craig Stewart and Bobby Farrer and Colin Ross and Nigel Toner. In the second pool Mike Sedgwick of University and Robert Keith of Fetteresso disposed of Paul Wilson and Ian Wright and Jason Guyan and Dave Plank in straight sets.
In the first semi-final Liew and Bob defeated Jason and Dave 15-6, 15-5. In the second semi, Mike and Robert defeated Craig and Bobby 15-10,8-15,15-13. In the final Liew and Bob won 15-9, 15-7. Paul and Ian claimed the wooden spoon by losing the play off for 5th place by 15-12,15-10 to Colin and Nigel.
The ladies event was played as a pool of five and the result went right down to the wire with three couples all in with a chance of winning in the last two games. The eventual winners were Shona Gatt of Westhill and Margaret Duncan of Fetteresso. They won three of their four games and finished top by virtue of dropping one set less than second placed pairing, Nicola Bruce of Racquets and Jane Wilson of CAS. In third place were Pam Cowell of Fetteresso and Louise Yule of Beacon who also won three of their four games. Fourth and fifth places were taken by Anne Shipley and Marion Wands and Pauline Duncan and Heather Wallace, respectively.
In Division One of the Aberdeen and District Badminton Gents League, Fetteresso are fighting to hold onto their title by the skin of their teeth. They narrowly defeated Central Buchan at Mintlaw by 5 rubbers to 4, with Colin Ross and Robert Keith winning three times to secure the points for the away team. In Division Two of the Gents League, Fetteresso B are performing in style. The defeated promotion favourites, Racquets by a decisive 9 rubbers to 0, with three of the rubbers going to three sets. This puts Fetteresso B four points clear at the top of the division. In Division One of the Mixed League, Central Buchan secured their first points of the season with a close 5-4 home victory over Racquets. Sandy Howie and E Johnstone won three times for the victors.
In Division Two of the Mixed League, Beacon edged out Cults Community Centre by 5 rubbers to 4, this despite Rob Wheadon and Lynn MacFarlane being in fine form for Cults, winning all three of their rubbers.
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 10 JANUARY 2004
SUMMERHILL CLOSE IN AT THE TOP
Summerhill finished the first half of the season in fine style with an emphatic 8-1 win over a strong University team in Division One of the Gents League. In this match the top two Summerhill couples received strong support from third couple, Alan Smith and Stan Coutts, who won their first rubbers of the season. University's sole rubber was taken by first couple, Mike Sedgwick and Brian Li. Summerhill now lie in second place in the League, two points behind Gordonians. University lie joint bottom with Portlethen with both teams yet to record a win.
Banchory are leading the way in Division One of the Ladies League. They recorded their second 3-1 away victory of the season, this time against Racquets. Susan Leith and Hilary Cowe won both of their rubbers in straight sets. Banchory now lie 2 points clear of Fetteresso at the top of the League.
Entry forms have now been sent out to clubs for the League's Club Doubles Tournament. The tournament is played on a handicap basis in pools and includes two sections each of Gents and Mixed Doubles and one section of Ladies Doubles. University Badminton Club currently hold four of the titles. The tournament is to be played at the Shell Pecten Club at Pitfodels, Aberdeen on Saturday 7 February 2004. Entry fees are �10 per couple and entry forms should be returned by Friday 30 January 2004. Entry forms are available from the League Secretary, Malcolm Campbell and can be downloaded from the League's Web Site at www.aberdeenbadminton.co.uk
The first round of the Activ-8 Junior Crombie League gets underway this Sunday at the Beach Leisure Centre. This season there are two divisions, with 9 teams in each division. Eleven teams are from Aberdeenshire and seven from the City, coming from Banchory, Westhill, Banff, Kemnay, Stonehaven, Old Machar, Bridge of Don, St Machar, Robert Gordons, and Hazelhead. Current holders of the Crombie Cup are the Division One winners, Mackie Boys. Division Two champions and holders of the Crombie Plate are Hazlehead Academy.
Fixtures for the Coming Week:
Sunday 11 January 2004
Portlethen Vs Central Buchan(Mixed Division One)
Fetteresso Vs Racquets (Mixed Division One)
Friday 16 January 2004
Banchory Vs Beacon (Mixed Division Two)
CAS Vs University (Mixed Division One)
Saturday 17 January 2004
Cults CC Vs Grampian Police (Mixed Division Two)
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 17 JANUARY 2004
TOP TRIO FORGE AHEAD AT THE TOP
The Activ-8 Junior Crombie League got started at the Beach Leisure Centre last Sunday. Now in its sixth season, the League is for juniors who are in years 1-5 at secondary schools across the North East. At the first session three teams in Division One have full points after their two matches. Last season's Division Two champions, Hazlehead Academy won both their matches 6-0, against Kemnay and Hazlehead Academy (2) respectively. Robert Gordons also registered two 6-0 victories, against Westhill Academy (2) and Stoney. Banchory Academy (1) were the other team to record two victories, 6-0 against Westhill Academy (1) and 5-1 against last year's runners-up Banff Academy (1). Banff (1) had better luck in their second match winning 6-1 against Westhill Academy (1). Westhill Academy (2) finished off a miserable day for the Aberdeenshire school going down in their other match 6-0 to Stoney. In the final match in Division One, Kemnay defeated Hazlehead Academy (2) 4-2.
Division Two of the Junior League was altogether a might tighter affair. Only one team recorded more than one victory, Banff Academy (2) who beat Banchory Academy (3) 6-0 and Banff Academy (3) 4-2. Westhill Academy (3) did better than the higher ranked teams from their school, defeating Bridge of Don Academy (2) 6-0 and drawing 3-3 with Banchory Academy (2), the latter also defeating Bridge of Don Academy (2) by 6-0. Other results saw Banchory Academy (3) drawing 3-3 with Banff Academy (3). Old Machar Academy, newcomers to the League, found the going tough losing 6-0 to fellow newcomers St Machar Academy and Bridge of Don Academy (1). In the final match Bridge of Don Academy (1) drew 3-3 with St Machar Academy.
The second round of the Activ-8 Junior Crombie League will be played on Sunday 1 February 2004 at the Beach Leisure Centre.
Fetteresso were the first team to record a victory in 2004 in the Aberdeen and District Leagues. Their Division One Mixed team recorded a 9-0 victory over Racquets, taking them to within two points of leaders, University and with a match in hand over the students.
Clubs are again reminded that entry forms for the League's Club Doubles Tournament should be returned by Friday 30 January 2004.
Fixtures for the Coming Week:
Sunday 18 January 2004
Portlethen Vs Central Buchan(Mens Division One)
Fetteresso Vs University (Mens Division One)
Gordonians Vs Summerhill (Mens Division One)
Bridge of Don Vs Grampian Police (Mens Division Three)
Monday 19 January 2004
71 Club Vs University B (Mens Division Three)
Tuesday 20 January 2004
Grampian Police Vs Racquets (Ladies Division One)
Thursday 22 January 2004
Portlethen Vs CAS (Ladies Division One)
Friday 23 January 2004
Beacon Vs Westhill (Mens Division Two)
Banchory Vs Raquets Mens Division Two)
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 7 FEBRUARY 2004
IT'S TIGHT AT THE TOP FOR JUNIORS
The second session of the Activ-8 Junior Crombie League was played at the Beach Leisure Centre last Sunday and Hazlehead Academy One and Robert Gordons are leading the way for the title of top team in Division One. Both teams have full points after four matches and have identical games for scores. Hazlehead beat Banchory Academy One and Stoney Smashers 4-2 and 6-0 respectively. Robert Gordons beat Banff Academy One 5-1 and Hazlehead Academy Two by the same margin. Both leading teams have still yet to meet in the League. Closest challengers in Division One are Banchory Academy One with six points, who won their other match against Stoney Smashers 4-2. Three teams lie on four points Westhill Academy One, Banff Academy One and Kemnay. Stoney Smashers have two points and Hazlehead Academy Two and Westhill Academy Two have yet to record a point.
As with the first session of the Junior League, Division Two remains a much tighter affair. Banff Academy Two lie top with seven points, having recorded a 6-0 win over Old Machar Academy and a 3-3 draw with Westhill Academy Three. Also on seven points but with less games for, are newcomers St Machar Academy. They had 4-2 wins over Banff Academy Three and Banchory Academy Two. Westhill Academy Three lie on six points having also had a 5-1 victory over Old Machar Academy. Three teams have five points, Banchory Academy Three, Banchory Academy Two and Bridge of Don Academy One. Banff Academy Three have one point and Old Machar and Bridge of Don Academy Two are still waiting to get off the mark.
The third round of the Activ-8 Junior Crombie League will be played on Sunday 29 February 2004 at the Beach Leisure Centre.
Fetteresso are back where they want to be at the top of Division One of the Mixed League. The Stonehaven Club moved ahead of University by virtue of their superior rubbers and courtesy of a 9-0 away victory over Central Buchan and a 7-2 away win against Portlethen. University had a narrow 5-4 victory CAS, this despite Steve Thomson and Anne Shipley winning three times for CAS. University meet Fetteresso tomorrow in what could be a title decider. Fetteresso will want revenge for a 9-0 drubbing in the first half of the season. In the same division Portlethen have pulled themselves up from the bottom of the League with home and away victories over Central Buchan 7-2, and 5-4 respectively. They also defeated Racquets 6-3 at home with Colin Anderson and Nicola Bruce winning three times for the losers. Racquets currently lie bottom of the division with no points.
In Division One of the Gents League, Fetteresso beat University 9-0 to take them within two points of Gordonians at the top. Fetteresso B continue to set the pace at the top of Division Two of the Gents League. Their latest victory over Banchory by 9 rubbers to 0 retains their unbeaten record. Nearest challengers Racquets kept up their challenge with a 5-4 away victory over Beacon. Veterans, Dave Plank and Bobby Farrer were the top men for Racquets winning all three of their rubbers. In the same division Beacon defeated Westhill 6-3.
Clubs are reminded that the League's Club Doubles Tournament has been postponed until Saturday 28 February 2004. The closing date for entries is now Friday 20 February 2004.
Fixtures for the Coming Week:
Sunday 8 February 2004
Portlethen Vs CAS(Mixed Division One)
Fetteresso Vs University (Mixed Division One)
Thursday 12 February 2004
Racquets Vs Central Buchan(Mixed Division One)
Friday 13 February 2004
Beacon Vs Grampian Police (Mixed Division Two)
Banchory Vs Westhill (Mixed Division Two)
University B Vs Bridge of Don (Mens Division Three)
Saturday 14 February 2004
Scottish University Championships
Full set of Junior League Results displayed in EE.
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 14 FEBRUARY 2004
OLD CHAMPIONS RETURN TO WINNING WAYS
CAS, despite personnel difficulties are now posting positive results in Division One of the Mixed League. Playing two matches held over from the first half of the season in the space of a week, Aberdeen's former premier badminton club won twice, recording 6-3 victories over Racquets and Portlethen respectively, this without North East champion Steve Thomson. Against Racquets, the experienced pairing of Robbie Dunbar-Smith and Robin Huthwaite were the heroes, winning all three of their rubbers in straight sets. Bobby Farrer and Nicola Bruce were the Racquets stalwarts, winning two rubbers out of three. In the match against Portlethen, Robbie Dunbar-Smith was again in fine form, this time with Anne Shipley. He was well supported by Steve Chappel and Jane Wilson and between them they secured CAS's 6 rubbers. CAS now lie joint third in the League.
Gordonians look on course to reclaim their Division One title in the Gents League. They secured their 5th victory in a row with a 6-3 away win against Central Buchan. With Liew Nam Min and Chee Goh back in the fold and Martin Stuart and Craig Walker the back up, the team was always going to be too strong for the boys from the Broch. Gordonians now lie four matches away from the title, though they still have to play last season's champions, Fetteresso. Portlethen and University still lie bottom of the League with both teams yet to record a victory. That will all change when they meet each other.
In Division Two of the Gents League, Banchory are struggling to stay the pace. They lost again, this time by 8 rubbers to 1 to Westhill. They are however looking to the future, blooding their top junior Richard Perry in the match.
The North East Badminton Group Junior NE Restricted Tournament gets underway next Saturday and Sunday at Kincorth and Hazlehead Academies. Aberdeen's premier junior tournament looks to be well supported again this year from junior players from across the North East. Clubs are reminded that the closing date for entries for the League's Club Doubles Tournament is Friday 20 February 2004.
Fixtures for the Coming Week:
Sunday 15 February 2004
Portlethen Vs Fetteresso(Mens Division One)
Fetteresso Vs Grampian Police (Ladies Division One)
Monday 16 February 2004
Central Buchan Vs Summerhill(Mens Division One)
71 Club Vs Bridge of Don (Mens Division Three)
Wednesday 18 February 2004
Westhill Vs Racquets (Mens Division Two)
Friday 20 February 2004
Beacon Vs Fetteresso (Mens Division Two)
University Vs Gordonians (Mens Division One)
Latest League Tables printed in the paperl.
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 28 FEBRUARY 2004
JUNIORS PROVE TO BE A SMASH HIT
The future of North East Badminton is in safe hands if the record entry at the North East Junior Restricted Tournament is to be the road map. Over 100 boys and girls from across the North East of Scotland took part in what is the area's premier Junior tournament at Kincorth and Hazlehead Academies last Saturday and Sunday. Michael Brand from Tain was the surprise packet in the Under 17 Boys event. He was one of five seeds in the singles event which comprised fourteen players. He defeated Cammy Smith (Haxzlehead) 15-1, 15-10 in the quarter finals and then went on to defeat last year's runner-up and favourite Kyle Duncan (Stonehaven) 15-10, 15-8 in the semi final. In the other semi Eugene Ong (Aberdeen) overpowered David Strachan (Dufftown) 15-3, 15-4, before losing in the final to Michael 15-8, 15-4. In the Under 17 Boys Doubles event Michael again was a winner in partnership with Steven Kinnaird, with Eugene and Kyle again on the receiving end losing 15-10, 15-12 in the final.
The Under 15 Boys event was dominated by Aberdeen's Logan Neave. Emerging from eight pools containing 28 players, Logan met last year's winner Richard Perry from Banchory in the semi final, winning 15-9. He then went on to defeat Nicky Whitecross from Montrose in the final 15-8, 15-12. Logan teamed up with Matthew Reid from Stonehaven in the doubles event. After winning their pool matches, they went onto defeat Peter Ross and Richard Perry 15-2 in the semi final. In the other semi Nicky Whitecross and Charles Rothnie beat Gregor Clunie and Andy Sutherland 15-4. Logan and Matthew won an exciting final 13-15, 15-11, 15-2.
With twelve pools, the Under 13 Boys Singles was another very well supported event. Pool winners included John Ross, Mark Dingwall, Jamie Richard, David Wilson, Thomas Dingwall, Harry Burness, Euan Little, Jonathan Burns, Matthew Allardyce, Steven Repper, Mark Urquhart and Matthew Hester. In the final Matthew Hester of Forres defeated Euan Little of Mintlaw 15-10. There were 6 pools in the Under 13 Boys Doubles competition, with the Wilson brothers from Forres edging out Alan Ross and Mark Dingwall also from Forres, 15-8 in the final.
Ten girls contested the Under 17 Girls Singles competition. In the play off pool of three, Jay Lindsay from Montrose was the winner with Fiona Vass from Nairn the runner up. Fiona Vass had better luck in the doubles event winning all her games in a pool of four in partnership with Nicola Young from Poolewe. Runners up were Lynne Anderson and Emma Tait from Kemnay.
Forres produced another winner in the Under 15 Girls singles event with Chelsea Robertson defeating Aberdeen's Nicola McAuley 11-4, 11-1 in the final. Aberdeen players were to the fore in the Under 15 Doubles with Nicola McAuley and Ruth Seery winning all three of their matches in a pool of four couples. Chelsea Robertson and Kelsey McLean were the runners up.
Ten players took part in the Under 13 Girls Singles competition. The three pool winners were, Fiona Woods, Catriona MacDonald and Jayne Moore. They went into a play off pool where Fiona from Forres was the winner with Jayne the runner up. In the doubles Jayne Moore and Kayley Pirie (Peterculter) were the winners with sisters Catriona and Fiona MacDonald (Stonehaven) the runners up.
In the Aberdeen Badminton Leagues it was the gents teams that were in action over the past two weeks. Gordonians are looking good to claim back their Division One title. With back to back wins over University by 8-1 and 9-0, they now lie a massive 8 points clear of their closest rivals, Fetteresso who do, however, have three matches in hand. In Division Two the competition is heating up. Racquets won twice, with a 6-3 away victory against Banchory and a 5-4 close encounter at home against Beacon. Colin Anderson and Don McKenzie sealed the match for Racquets winning all three of their rubbers. Meanwhile promotion favourites, Fetteresso B were losing 6-3 away to Beacon, with Alan Keith and Alan Denny winning three times. Both Racquets and Fetteresso B lie equal on points, with the Stonehaven club having the advantage in rubbers. Grampian Police are looking certs for promotion from Division Three of the Gents League. They recorded their third 9-0 victory on the trot, this time the luckless victims were Bridge of Don.
Fixtures for the Coming Week:
Sunday 29 February 2004
Fetteresso Vs Gordonians (Mens Division One)
Fetteresso B Vs Westhill (Mens Division Two)
Monday 1 March 2004
Central Buchan Vs University (Mens Division One)
Tuesday 2 March 2004
Grampian Police Vs CAS (Ladies Division One)
Thursday 4 March 2004
Portlethen Vs Racquets (Ladies Division One)
Friday 5 March 2004
Banchory Vs Beacon (Mens Division Two)
Summerhill Vs Portlethen (Mens Division One)
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 6 MARCH 2004
STUDENTS HAVE A SMASHING TIME
Aberdeen University were again the team to beat at the League's annual Club Doubles Tournament. Winning four of the five trophies available in 2003, University this time claimed two of the three prizes on offer at this year's event. With the venue now established at the Shell Pecten Club, couples from seven of the League's clubs were in action last Saturday. In the ladies doubles event youth was to the fore with last year's runners up Stacey Wood and Julie Price of Portlethen Badminton Club, going one better this year. They defeated Rachael Rennie and Kathryn Wardrope of University and former north east ladies champions Shona Gatt and Maureen McFarland of Westhill to claim the title.
Six couples contested the Gents Doubles event, which was divided up into two pools. Pool One was won by Andy Hinchcliffe and Jason Guyan of Fetteresso with Erland Inkster and Brian Li of University runners up. Juniors Jamie Colvin and Kris Stuart representing 71 Club put up a spirited performance in what was their first venture into senior competition. Alan Denny and Alan Keith from Beacon lived up to their tag as one of the favourites for the event winning pool 2. They defeated University's Ian Wright and Mike Sedgwick (pool runners up)and Steve Morton and Robbie Christie from Fetteresso. The two Alans defeated Erland and Brian in the semi final before falling in the final to the University's first pairing of Ian and Mike 15-11, 11-15, 15-5.
The Mixed Doubles event was played as a pool of five couples. This included three from the University, one from Westhill and previous three times winners of the event, Paul Wilson and Margaret Duncan of Fetteresso. In a keenly contested pool, Mike Sedgwick and Kathryn Wardrope of University emerged victorious winning all four of their matches. Runners up were Erland Inkster and Stacey Wood of University, who edged out Ian Wright and Rachael Rennie of University and Paul and Margaret of University.
The third session of the Activ-8 Junior Crombie League was played at the Beach Leisure Centre last Sunday. In Division One two teams have put themselves in a position to win the title. Both Hazlehead Academy (1) and Robert Gordons have full points from their 6 matches played to date and both have identical games differences. Hazlhead defeated Banff Academy (1) 4-2 and Westhill Academy (2) 6-0. Meanwhile Robert Gordons had 5-1 victories over Banchory Academy (1) and Kemnay respectively. Hazlehead and Robert Gordons meet in the final session to be played on 25 April in a match which will decide who lifts the Junior Crombie Cup. Banchory Academy (1)currently lie in third place in Division One with former winners Banff Academy (1) two points further back in fourth spot. Westhill Academy (2) who have yet to win a match will be looking to break their duck in the final session.
In Division Two, four teams are all in with a realistic chance of lifting that title. Both St Machar Academy and Banff Academy (2) lie on 10 points with Banchory Academy (2) and Bridge of Don Academy (1) one point further back. Two teams, Bridge of Don Academy (2) and Old Machar Academy have yet to win a point but that will change for at least one of them when they meet each other in the final session in April.
In the Aberdeen leagues CAS are making a late bid for the Division One Mixed title. At last eating into their backlog of matches, CAS recorded consecutive away victories against Portlethen 7-2 and champions, Fetteresso 6-3. They now lie equal on points with Fetteresso and University at the top of the League. In Division Two of the Mixed League, Cults Community Centre registered their first win of the season with a 5-4 away win against Grampian Police. Bridge of Don also recorded their first victory of the season winning 6-3 at Kingswells against 71 Club in Division Three of the Gents League.
Fixtures for the Coming Week:
Sunday 7 March 2004
Fetteresso Vs Portlethen (Mixed Division One)
Monday 8 March 2004
Central Buchan Vs CAS (Mixed Division One)
Tuesday 9 March 2004
Grampian Police Vs Westhill (Mixed Division Two)
Friday 12 March 2004
Beacon Vs Cults CC (Mixed Division Two)
University Vs Racquets (Mixed Division One)
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 13 MARCH 2004
WESTHILL WIN THREE IN A ROW
Westhill are looking favourites to win promotion from Division Two of the Mixed League following three victories in the space of five days including back to back wins against Cults Community Centre. The wins were all emphatic by the score of 9-0 and should ensure that Westhill's absence from the top flight is only one season. In addition to beating Cults CC home and away, Westhill overcame Grampian Police, who currently lie bottom of the Division.
In Division One of the Mixed League, Central Buchan won the dogfight at the bottom of the League, beating Racquets 7-2 away and virtually condemning them to Division Two badminton next season. A Strachan and L Robertson won three times for the Buchan team. Grampian Police's progress up the Leagues looks assured following a 6-3 victory over University B and a 9-0 win against 71 Club. They are currently unbeaten in Division Three of the Gents League and with University's recent withdrawal from this League, the Police can be crowned champions elect.
Beacon had a narrow escape against relegation candidates, Banchory in Division Two of the Gents League. They scraped through 5-4 at Banchory Academy with thanks due to Beacon's pairing of Neil Smith and Mike Crusoe who won all three of their rubbers.
Fixtures for the Coming Week:
Sunday 14 March 2004
Fetteresso Vs Central Buchan (Mens Division One)
Gordonians Vs Central Buchan (Mens Division One)
Wednesday 17 March 2004
Westhill Vs Banchory (Mens Division Two)
Thursday 18 March 2004
Racquets Vs Fetteresso B (Mens Division Two)
Friday 19 March 2004
University Vs Summerhill (Mens Division One)
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 27 MARCH 2004
SUMMERHILL HAVE WEEK TO RELISH
Summerhill Badminton club are making a determined late bid to lift the Division One Gents title in the Aberdeen Badminton Leagues. Now firmly established as a Division One club, Summerhill have ambitions to challenge the badminton hierarchy of Gordonians, CAS and Fetteresso. In the space of seven days they have recorded wins against, Portlethen, Central Buchan and University. A tight 5-4 home victory over Portlethen was the start of their title run, this despite Portlethen's quality pairing of Craig Stewart and Gary McKenzie winning their three matches and edging out Summerhill's top two couples in tough three setters. In their second match, Summerhill recorded a fine 6-3 away victory against Central Buchan, with Ken Watson and Ian Robb winning three times. In their last match in the series they registered their second away victory on the trot, winning 6-3 against University at the Butchart Recreation Centre. This time Mark Beattie and Doug Buchan were the heroes for Summerhill, winning all their rubbers. Summerhill now lie just four points behind leaders Gordonians, but with a match in hand and still to play Gordonians, who must put out a strong team if they are to maintain their title bid.
Gordonians did, however keep the pressure on their opponents with a 7-2 home victory against Portlethen. Also in the same division, Central Buchan all but condemned University to Division Two badminton next season with an 8-1 home victory over the students and Fetteresso did a demolition job on Central Buchan, winning 9-0 and conceding just 37 points in the match.
One result in Division Two of the Gents League saw Westhill win 8-1 against Banchory, who will be returning to Division Three next season after one season in the higher league. One result in the Mixed League Division One was registered with University, who have the League's strongest ladies, winning 8-1 against Racquets. This puts the Varsity two points clear at the top with three matches to play. Fetteresso and CAS both still have realistic chances of overtaking them if they can record victories in the run in to the championship. Fetteresso have still a match to play against University.
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 3 APRIL 2004
FIRST TWO TITLES ARE NETTED
Racquets and Westhill Badminton clubs have taken the first two titles of the 2003-04 season. Westhill Badminton club have finished their Mixed Division Two season undefeated, winning all eight of their matches. They finished off their match programme in fine style, firstly with a 7-2 away victory over Banchory and then followed that with a 9-0 home win against Grampian Police. In their last match they played their closest challengers, Beacon and coasted to a 9-0 victory.
In Division Two of the Gents League, Racquets made sure their absence from the top flight was short lived as they clinched the title and promotion back to Division One next season. The crucial victory was against their promotion rivals Fetteresso B. In the final match of the season Racquets secured a 6-3 home victory, this despite Fetteresso's top pairing of Ross Watson and Andy Hinchcliffe winning three times. Both teams had 5-4 victories over Westhill, but, Fetteresso's downfall was losing away to Beacon, in February. Banchory finished bottom of the League with no victories.
In Division One of the Gents League, Fetteresso consolidated their position at third place with a 7-2 away victory over Portlethen. Once again Portlethen's Craig Stewart and Gary McKenzie were the home team's top couple winning two of their three rubbers. In the Ladies league Racquets won twice without hitting a shuttle, courtesy of two 4-0 walkovers against Grampian Police and CAS.
The previous Friday the annual Invitation Mixed tournament was played at Kincorth Sports Centre. In the semi-finals, Mike Sedgewick and Rachael Rennie of University Badminton Club beat Craig Walker (Gordonians) and Shona Gatt (Westhill) 15-13 15-5, whilst Steve Chappell (CAS) and Julie Price (Portlethen) defeated Robbie Dunbar-Smith and Jane Aitcheson of CAS 15-11 15-8. In the Final, Steve and Julie beat Mike and Rachael in a three setter with scores of 10-15, 15-3, 15-8.
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 10 APRIL 2004
THREE IN WITH TITLE CHANCE
Three league titles in the Aberdeen Badminton Leagues still remain unclaimed. The tightest finish is taking place in Division One of the Mixed League. Three teams, University, Fetteresso and CAS are all still in with a chance of becoming champions. Fetteresso are making a determined bid to retain their title defeating both their closest challengers by the narrowest of margins, 5-4. There was 4 three setters in the match against CAS in which Steve Chappell and Jane Aitcheson won three times for the losers. In the match against University seven of the games went to three sets and Chee Goh and Rachael Rennie won three times for the students, but this was not enough to combat Fetteresso's resilience and strength in depth. University recorded a 9-0 win over Portlethen to put themselves top of the league ahead of Fetteresso by virtue of their superior rubbers. A 5-4 victory in their last match will be enough for University to clinch the league. A defeat would let in Fetteresso or CAS, providing they win their outstanding matches. Portlethen won 6-3 away to Racquets to consolidate their position in mid table in the league.
In Division One of the Gents League Portlethen are on a roll. They recorded four wins out of four, firstly beating current champions Fetteresso 6-3. They then beat University 7-2 and had home and away victories over Central Buchan 6-3 and 7-2. Their imports from Keith, Gary McKenzie and Neil Riach are proving valuable additions to their team. The title, however is realistically only a contest between two teams, Summerhill and Gordonians who still have to play each other.
Portlethen won 3-1 against Racquets in Division One of the Ladies League. Racquets, however remain top in a league where very few matches have been played. What is most disappointing is teams are unable to get matches because of call offs by their opponents. In Division Two of the Mixed League, Banchory had two 9-0 walkovers against Cults Community Centre and Cults had a 9-0 walkover against Grampian Police. Grampian Police, have ensured that they will move up a division next season, having stayed unbeaten all season in Division Three of the Gents League. Their title victory may have been harder if their closest challengers, University B had not pulled out halfway through the league programme.
Clubs are being given until 30 April 2004 to complete all outstanding league matches. Any matches not completed by that date will be declared null and void. If clubs have any outstanding scorecards, they should be returned to the League Secretary asap. Clubs should check the League's Web Site for outstanding matches.
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary
BADMINTON ARTICLE FOR EVENING EXPRESS: 15 MAY 2004
ROBERT GORDONS IN HISTORIC LEAGUE WIN
2004 Activ-8 Junior Crombie League Winners - Ashley Lee, Andrew
Hardy, Logan Neave and Eugene Ong
(Photograph unfortunately not used by EE)
The final session of the Activ-8 Junior Crombie League saw both the Division One and Two titles decided at the Beach Ballroom. In Division One, the Junior Crombie Cup went for the first time to Robert Gordons College. The team anchored by by North East Under 17 Boys Runner Up, Eugene Ong and North East Under 15 Boys Champion, Logan Neave beat Westhill Academy (1) 6-0 and then defeated their closest challengers Hazlehead Academy (1) 4-2. This gave them a 100% record and saw them only drop 6 games out of a total of 48 played during their league programme. Hazlehead (1) drew their remaining match 3-3 against Westhill (1) to finish as runners up. In third place were Banchory Academy (1) with former winners Banff Academy (1) finishing fourth.
Banff Academy (2) were the form team in Division Two and clinched the title courtesy of 6-0 and 4-2 victories over their close rivals Banchory Academy (2) and Bridge of Don Academy (1), respectively. Banff finished the league programme undefeated registering 14 points, with two draws preventing them recording a 100% record. Runners Up in Division Two were Westhill Academy (3) who surged up the league with 5-1 victories against Banchory Academy (3) and St Machar Academy to finish on 12 points. Bridge of Don Academy (1) and St Machar Academy finished third and fourth respectively, both on 11 points. Spare a thought for Bridge of Don Academy (2) who finished without a win or game to their name. Full marks for trying and things can only get better next season for them.
The two premier titles in Division One of the Aberdeen and District Badminton League have now been decided. Division One of the Gents League went back to Gordonians after only one season in the possession of Fetteresso. Gordonians secured their 5th title in eight years with an 8-1 victory against their closest rivals, Summerhill. Dougie Buchan and Mark Beattie took the sole rubber for the losers. In the Mixed League, University lifted their first ever Division One championship. An 8-1 home victory over Central Buchan put them in an uncatchable position. Fetteresso could have equalled the student's points total but their inferior rubbers meant that their position was hopeless and in any event their last match against Portlethen was declared null and void.
Malcolm Campbell
Aberdeen and District Badminton League Secretary