Twelve participants from twelve different European countries attended a two-day series of lectures and workshops, September 16-17. During the course, they had the chance to learn about the optimal solutions of various situations that a referee can possibly experience when performing his/her duties. 

Especially, the many tips given by the three instructors Ronny De Vos, Pencho Stoynov and Carsten Koch during mutual discussions were appreciated by the participants. The instructors were, likewise, really happy about the group’s keen attitude and desire to always learn a little more. 

Such positive mindsets of both parties resulted in a frequent interaction and created a lot of opportunities for mutual feedback. 

The course, however, was also about hard work as Ronny De Vos, one of the course instructors confirms: 

“The participants had to come well prepared to Leuven and were expected to know even the slightest details of the BWF and BEC regulations. The course was eventually concluded by a written test where the participants had to apply not only their existing knowledge and experience, but also things learned during the course.” 

Those who have done the best in Leuven will be given the chance for an assessment towards the BEC Referee level in due course. 

Regardless of the results, everyone who took part in the course, were positive about its outcome and considered the two days in Belgium a time well spend. 

We do hope that the participants as well as European badminton will benefit from this initiative in the future.