4 Nations Graded International: Medal success for Scotland

Players from across the country were selected to represent Scotland over the weekend at the Four Nations Graded International in Cardiff, Wales. Team members were selected based on their results in tournaments and competitions, and placed in to teams for grades E through to H.

The Four Nations Graded International is a team event bringing England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales together to provide an opportunity for competitive players to play in a social competition. The first event was held in Dublin in 2019 to coincide with Badminton Ireland’s 120th anniversary celebrations. This was the first event to take place since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Scotland performed well at the event, bringing home a silver and two bronze. The team was captained by Rebecca Reid from Orkney, who was selected to play in the Grade E team. She said “I was delighted to be selected to represent Scotland again in the graded 4 Nations, the event is a great opportunity for Scottish players to compete at a high level against other teams in friendly but highly competitive matches. I look forward to seeing how this event develops to strengthen the number of competitive opportunities BADMINTON Scotland provides to players”.

Also competing was Keegan Friel from Langside, who was selected to play for the Grade G team. He added “The competition was ideal for me as I played with and competed against players of a similar standard to me. It meant I never felt out my depth and the games we won were just as enjoyable as the games we lost – as they were very narrow losses. To bring back a medal on my first attempt playing for Scotland was pretty special.”

“As a team we got to coach each other and offer advice during intervals and games. This was really helpful to me in developing my game, and I could see the difference it made after receiving tips from Kirsty, Rachael and Jonathan – my teammates. I hope to get selected again in the future!”

BADMINTON Scotland are hoping to host the next Four Nations Graded International. We hope to share further information soon once details have been confirmed.