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Humans of Shuttle Time: Asylbek uulu Meerbek

TEXT BY BWF STAFF

This is the 56th story in our Humans of Shuttle Time series, in which we present the perspectives of those who are involved with badminton at the grassroots level. Asylbek uulu Meerbek, PE Teacher with Kyrgyzstan Badminton Federation, speaks about his journey in badminton.

Childhood Years

I was born in 1992 in the village of Ton. From an early age, I developed a strong interest in football, which became a significant part of my childhood. Growing up in a close-knit village community, I cherished the simplicity of life and the friendships formed through shared activities like playing football with friends after school. I also enjoyed teaching my younger brothers various subjects, which inspired me to enrol in the Faculty of Education. After graduation, I became PE teacher at a school.

Tryst with Badminton

In 2021, I was introduced to badminton for the first time when it became part of the school league. Representatives from the federation came to teach us the basic skills to prepare the children. Later, we were invited to an exhibition match, where I truly understood what badminton was and became inspired to train the children intensively. As a result, my students consistently advanced to the finals of the school league.

In 2023, I returned to my village and introduced badminton there. Today, more than 50 children in the village play badminton, thanks to the support of the federation.

First Impressions

When I first saw badminton, what struck me was its speed and elegance. The way players moved so swiftly across the court, combined with the precision and strategy behind every shot, made it feel like more than just a game — it was an art form. I was fascinated by how such a light shuttlecock could lead to such intense rallies, requiring both physical agility and mental sharpness. It was a sport that combined grace, power, and quick thinking, and that truly inspired me.

Memorable Events

The most amazing event happened recently when our federation, in collaboration with the Asian Federation, held the Shuttle Time Tournament, which gathered over 100 children. I brought 10 children from my village, and everyone was incredibly excited about this badminton celebration. It left a lasting impression on me and the children, who became motivated and started training harder.

What Badminton Means

For me, badminton is not just a sport, it’s a true source of inspiration and meaning in life. It’s an activity that allows me to develop children, inspire them to achieve their goals, and instil a love for sports. Badminton has become a way for me to unite people, create communities, and motivate them toward self-improvement. I am proud that I was able to bring this sport to my village and give children the opportunity to grow. Badminton not only helps me become a better coach, but also brings me immense satisfaction knowing that I can pass on my passion for the sport to the next generations.

Developing Badminton in the Community

While developing badminton in the community, I’ve had many rewarding experiences that have shaped my passion for the sport and its impact on others. One of the most fulfilling moments was when I saw children in my village start to truly engage with badminton, not just as a game but as something they felt connected to. I remember the excitement of bringing the sport to the school and watching students of all ages pick up the shuttlecock for the first time.

One of the most significant turning points was when I received funding from the federation to organize a large event focused on promoting badminton. The event was a huge success, and it was heartwarming to see so many people — both children and their families — coming together to celebrate the sport. That was a moment when I realised how much potential badminton had to unite people and create a sense of community. It was more than just teaching a sport; it was about building connections and inspiring both young and older generations.

Today, watching over 50 children play badminton in my village and hearing stories from parents and coaches who are eager to learn more shows me that badminton has truly become part of the community.

Previous Stories in This Series

Humans of Shuttle Time: Anil Seepaul

Humans of Shuttle Time: Kazadi Kazadi Joel

Humans of Shuttle Time: Wilma Tupu

Humans of Shuttle Time: Laia Oset Moncho

Humans of Shuttle Time: Aisarova Jasmin

Humans of Shuttle Time: Saygufron Davletov

Humans of Shuttle Time: Rafael Lora

Humans of Shuttle Time: Graham Berry

Humans of Shuttle Time: Alaa Mohamed Youssef Fathy

Humans of Shuttle Time: Raul Jara Tacora

Humans of Shuttle Time: Lerato Lepheane