For some players, the European Mixed Team Qualification would just be a normal tournament involvement but to others, it is the next step.
Katharina Fink, 16, was selected to compete in her first ever International Senior tournament at the EMTC Qualification in December.
The Italian believes that the confidence to play in tournaments such as this is only going to make the future brighter for her.
Positives all round
Fink played in both Women’s Singles and the Women’s Doubles throughout the Qualification stage in Milton Keynes and played against some experienced individuals.
- It was a great experience for me to play here, although I did not get the result that I wanted to in my match there was a lot of positives for my side, Katharina Fink told Badminton Europe.
- It is a new level for me, it is the first International Senior event that I have competed in and it was great for my development to play against these top players especially against England.
- So many great players are attending these big tournaments, like the Adcocks for England and to be playing in the same tournament as these players, it is just amazing for my confidence, she added.
Looking ahead to the future
Fink speaking to Badminton Europe, revealed that she wants to focus on her current level of badminton at the moment, but she refused to rule out playing at the elite level.
- After speaking with my coach, it is decided that in one year I will compete in more senior tournaments but right now I will continue to develop in the Under 19’s competitions, Fink said.
- I think it was a great preparation for me to play in Milton Keynes for the European Mixed Team event for my career, ahead of me.
- For a player like me, it is the realisation part which is interesting, when you see what level you can play at if you train and work hard for it, she commented.