Duns Badminton Club Shines at Clubsport Berwickshire Award
The dedication, passion, and commitment of individuals can elevate a community and inspire generations. Such was the spirit celebrated at the Clubsport Berwickshire Awards, where Duns Badminton Club shone brightly with multiple accolades, recognising the outstanding contributions of its members and the legacy they continue to build in Berwickshire and beyond.
Peter Hardie’s Lifetime Achievement Award
Peter Hardie, the club’s head coach and a cherished member of Duns Badminton Club, was honored with the Clubsport Berwickshire Lifetime Achievement Award and the Service to Local Sports Award for his unwavering dedication to coaching. Over 46 years, Peter has shaped the lives of countless young players in Duns, Berwickshire, and the Scottish Borders, mentoring them on and off the court.
Speaking on his win Hardie said:
“I was very pleased to win the Clubsport Berwickshire Lifetime Achievement and Service to Local Sports awards. They mean a lot to me given my passion for coaching youngsters in my local town and the Scottish Borders region. I still really look forward to coaching badminton at the local high school every Monday afternoon and at our club every Tuesday and Friday. I get fantastic help from the other club coaches and the committee, who help make sure the club is one of the best run in the country.”
Peter’s coaching journey extends beyond badminton, with over three decades of tennis coaching under his belt. Currently, he dedicates his time to training approximately 100 juniors every week, supported by an incredible team of coaches and committee members who ensure the club remains among the best-run in the country.
A touching highlight of the evening was the presence of his wife, Anne, and former junior Scotland players he had coached. Reflecting on his achievements, Peter expressed appreciation for Anne’s steadfast support during their 52 years together, saying:
“Anne has supported me and put up with me being away coaching and at tournaments throughout our time together.”
Recognizing Emerging Talent: Erin Doyle and Millie McManus
The club’s spirit of fostering young talent was further celebrated as Erin Doyle was awarded Junior Coach of the Year for her dedication, skill development, and successful completion of coaching qualifications, including the UKCC Level 1. Erin exemplifies the club’s vision of nurturing young players into future coaches, ensuring the sustainability and growth of the sport.
Another milestone was reached with Erin Doyle and Millie McManus winning the Special Achievement Award for their historic triumph as the first pair from the same club and school to clinch the National Senior Girls Doubles Title in March 2024.
Inspiring Future Generations
The club’s emphasis on developing young leaders is evident in its track record of guiding 15 young adults through coaching qualifications in just six years. A standout example is Leona, who won the Young Coach Award six years ago and now contributes to coaching in Aberdeen after advancing to Level 1 Advanced certification. Club member Rita has played an instrumental role in this initiative, ensuring young players are inspired to continue the cycle of mentorship.