IOM Badminton County selection 25/26

The aim is to foster open and constructive dialogue between players and the selection committee, ensuring transparency around the objectives of the county teams and how selection decisions are made.

• Clear Objectives: Communicate the goals of both the 1st and 2nd teams clearly, including how selection aligns with performance, development, and long-term planning.
• Open Dialogue: Encourage regular conversations between players and selectors to support understanding, feedback, and development.
• Nomination Process: Before the first match of the season, four men and four women must be nominated to the 1st team. Once nominated, these players are ineligible to play for the 2nd team for the remainder of the season.
• Flexibility in Island Games Years: Team objectives and selection criteria will be adapted slightly in Island Games years to reflect the unique demands and priorities of that cycle.

1st Team Strategy – Performance-Focused Selection

• The 1st team will be selected based on performance and form, with the aim of fielding the strongest possible lineup to maximise the team’s chances of achieving the highest possible finish in competitions. 

2nd Team Strategy – Development with Competitive Intent

The 2nd team will serve as a platform for developing players while also remaining competitive and aiming to win matches. Selection and planning will take into account:

• Medium-Term Development: Build a squad with future events in mind, considering the likely availability, age profile and potential of players over the next few seasons.
• Balanced Experience: Ensure each team includes experienced players who can support and guide newer members, helping build their confidence and understanding of competitive play.
• Fair Match Distribution: Avoid situations where players only participate in one event per match weekend. Aim for an even spread of match opportunities across the season to support consistent development.
• Winning Mentality: While development is a key focus, the team should still be set up to compete and win. This helps foster a strong team culture and prepares players for higher-level competition.

Basis for Selection

Selection for the county teams will be based on a combination of performance, commitment, and contribution to the local badminton community. Key factors include:

• IOMBA Open Championship (September): Results and performance will be considered.
• Badminton England Competitions: Results in BE competitions will be reviewed, with particular emphasis on doubles performances involving fellow Isle of Man players.
• Previous County Season Results: Past performances in county matches will be taken into account.
• Other Relevant Results: Strong performances in local leagues or other competitive settings may also be considered.
• Island-Based Players:
  • Demonstrated commitment and application through regular attendance at squad training.
  • Active participation and support of local league competitions.

Other Notes:

Pairings & Trial Matches

Games played during trials and squad sessions will be used to explore potential pairings — identifying combinations that may work well together and those that may not. 

• Exploration, Not Selection: Trial games are intended to test pairings and build understanding, not necessarily to decide who makes the team.
• Player Input Encouraged: Feedback from players is always welcome, especially regarding how they feel certain pairings may or may not work. Open communication helps inform decisions and supports team cohesion.

Squad Attendance

If personal circumstances affect a player’s ability to consistently attend squad sessions, this should be communicated to the Performance Committee. Such circumstances will be taken into consideration as part of the overall selection process and will be communicated to the player