The Badminton World Federation (BWF) awarded Jane Wheatley the prestigious Distinguished Service Award. This award recognises her long-standing dedication and outstanding service to badminton at the international level.
Jane’s Journey in Badminton
Jane’s badminton officiating career began in Western Australia. After rising through the ranks in the region, her career took a huge step in 2005 when she progressed from an Oceania Referee to a BWF Accredited Referee. In 2011, she became a BWF Certificated Referee. Over the years, she has officiated at the pinnacle events of the sport, including the Rio Olympic Games in 2016 as Deputy Referee. After reaching the heights of international officiating, Jane retired in 2016 following the YONEX French Open.
Leadership and Mentorship
Her dedication to the sport only grew after her retirement. In 2017, Jane joined the BWF Referee Assessment Panel. She served as Chair of the Panel from 2019 to 2023. Her leadership, professionalism, and people skills have made her a respected mentor. Knowing how to bring the best out of fellow referees, she was instrumental in the successful implementation of the BWF Semi-Professional Referee programme.
Supporting Technical Officials
Jane has always been committed to developing technical officials in Western Australia and the Oceania region. Her efforts in mentoring and training new referees have greatly improved the standards of badminton officiating both locally and on a global level.
A Well-Deserved Honour
Jane could not attend the BWF Annual General Meeting (AGM) to receive the award in person. However, her absence did not lessen the importance of her achievement. The Distinguished Service Award honours her 19 years of exemplary service to badminton.
Jane’s award highlights her invaluable contributions to the Badminton World Federation, especially within the BWF Technical Officials Commission and among BWF Referees. Her dedication and mentorship have left a lasting impact on the sport.
Badminton Oceania and the global badminton community congratulate Jane Wheatley on her outstanding contributions and this well-deserved recognition. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations of badminton officials.
