Vineetha Uthaman
Auckland, September 8, 2024
On a cold Sunday morning, the 11th of August, the Papakura Badminton Courts came alive with the energy of the KTS Cup 2024.
Despite the biting chill, the excitement among the 18 participating teams was undeniable as they were warmly welcomed with smiles and a hearty breakfast.
The weather inside the stadium may have been freezing, but the fire in the eyes of these athletes burned brightly, setting the stage for an unforgettable day.
We were honoured to have the support of Steel Midwaters and the coach Ned Wanoa, whose presence added a special touch to the event. By 8.30 am, the teams were invited to the stage, where each was acknowledged with goodie bags containing KTS-branded T-shirts and protein bars, a gesture of appreciation for their enthusiasm and dedication.
Culture and enterprise
It was hard to say what set the KTS Cup 2024 apart from other badminton tournaments held throughout the year – was it the warm hospitality rooted in Tamil culture or the meticulous organisation that caught everyone’s attention?
It was a combination of both and a notable feature was the real-time point updates displayed on the screen, which kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
A compliment from Counties Manukau Badminton Association Coach Ned Wanoa, “I have not seen anything like this previously,” filled our team with pride.
Another aspect KTS is particularly proud of is our encouragement for teams to include at least one female player. The result was a wonderful mix of gender, which added to the vibrant atmosphere of the event. It was heartening to see this diversity celebrated on the court.
As the day unfolded, the players and volunteers were treated to a delicious, packed lunch, which received heartfelt compliments from everyone who enjoyed it.
The Tournament ran smoothly, with each match fought with passion and dedication. The support from families and the public was unwavering, fuelling the players’ energy and drive.
(Photo sent by KTS President Vaneetha Uthaman)
Teenagers gratify
Among the highlights were the performances of two young girls, Under-13 and Under-15, whose energy and charisma captured everyone’s attention and admiration.
The tournament culminated in a nail-biting final between the top two teams, a match that left everyone captivated. The Winners and Runners-Up were awarded trophies by the Steel Midwaters CEO/General Manager and coach Ned Wanoa, with the cash prizes proudly presented by KTS Chairperson Vineetha Uthaman.
The umpires demonstrated exceptional expertise and impartiality, guaranteeing a fair and balanced competition. Their dedication and hard work were vital to the smooth execution and overall success of the event. We want to extend a huge thank you to all the umpires for their hard work and dedication during the badminton tournament.
This successful event would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of numerous KTS team members who volunteered their time and talent.
Thanks to all the volunteers who have put in tremendous effort for this Badminton Tournament. Their dedication and hard work have been crucial in making this event a success. From organizing to assisting and ensuring everything runs smoothly, their contributions have not gone unnoticed.
As the KTS Cup 2024 ended, everyone left the Badminton Court with smiles and a sense of contentment. We look forward to bringing the same, if not more, energy to next year’s KTS Cup 2025 Badminton tournament.
Vaneetha Uthaman is the Chairperson of KTS. She sent us the above Report soon after the event but was regrettably delayed at our Copy Desk. Our apologies.
