Badminton Oceania is deeply saddened to advise that our Life Member, former President and founder of Badminton Oceania, Heather Robson, passed away Thursday 10 October 2019; age 91.
Heather was pivotal in the creation and development of Badminton Oceania, celebrating tremendous success in her own playing career, including 19 New Zealand National titles and an appearance in the 1954 All England semi-finals, amongst an illustrious tennis career as well.
Heather was the President of Badminton Oceania 1987 – 2000, currently the longest serving Continental Confederation President.
Heather was an invaluable treasure to the badminton world, bringing her extreme passion and expertise to the sport. She was a highly devoted member to Badminton Oceania and it has been our pleasure to grow alongside her influence in the badminton community.
Badminton Oceania has extended our thoughts to her family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time.
Heather’s Story
Previously a successful tennis player, Heather did not start playing badminton until she was 20 years old. With an illustrious badminton career representing New Zealand, Heather was also heavily involved in driving participation and reputation for badminton, through coaching, fundraising efforts and inaugurating the Auckland Ladies Mid-Week club when Auckland Badminton Hall opened – this has grown into today’s mid-week inter-club and championships.
Robson has also served as President for Auckland Badminton, Badminton New Zealand and Badminton Oceania (from 1987-2000) and is a life member to all three associations.
Achievements
Badminton Playing Career Highlights:
- New Zealand National Champion: 7 x WS (unbeaten record), 9 x WD and 3 x XD
- All England WS semi-finalist in 1954
- Irish International WS Champion in 1954
- 20 caps representing New Zealand (including 3 Uber Cup competitions and in 1960 when the team were semi-finalists)
- 14 Auckland Badminton Champion: 14 x WS, 13 x WD and 10 x XD
Badminton Administration Highlights:
- Delegate to International Badminton Confederation since 1989
- Technical Director at the Auckland 1990 Commonwealth Games
- Technical Director at Thomas/Uber Cup Asian zone in Auckland 1996
