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Humans of Shuttle Time: Jairon Dixon Vargas Tejeda

TEXT BY BWF STAFF

This is the 67th 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. Jairon Dixon Vargas Tejeda, Shuttle Time Teacher with Dominican Badminton Federation, talks of his eventful journey in the sport.

Childhood Days

I had a simple and happy childhood. I grew up in a family environment full of support and values, where I was always taught to work with others as a team and give my best. Since I was a child, I liked sports and spending time with friends at school and in the neighborhood.

Tejeda conducting a Shuttle Time clinic.

Tryst with Badminton

I saw badminton for the first time in high school, during a physical education class. The teacher showed us how it was played and I found it an interesting and different sport from the ones I knew.

What caught my attention was the speed and how you need concentration and reflexes to hit the shuttlecock. I also liked that you don’t need a lot of space to practice it and that anyone can play.

Relationship with Badminton

Over time I started practicing it at school and with my friends. Over time, at university I resumed it in a basic way where I learned the rules more thoroughly and I improved my skills. Then I learned about Shuttle Time and it became one of my favorite sports.

Shuttle Time in the Dominican Republic.

Memorable Moments

One of the most memorable moments was participating in the Shuttle Time workshop. Where I had the honour of meeting Nelson Javier. Badminton now means more than just a sport. It is a way to stay active, learn discipline, share with other people and improve myself every day.

What Makes Badminton Different

Its combination of speed, coordination and strategy. In addition, it can be played both recreationally and competitively and is always fun and challenging.

Developing Badminton in the Community

I have had the opportunity to teach the basics to children and young people at the school where I work. Many did not know about the sport and became interested in practicing it, which has helped to promote physical activity and teamwork.

Impact of Shuttle Time

Shuttle Time has helped more people learn about and practice badminton. Thanks to its programmes, activities, classes and tournaments have been organised, motivating children and young people to get involved in sports.

The biggest lesson has been to understand that sport can change lives. Through badminton I have learned the importance of patience, teamwork and how teaching can inspire others to achieve their goals.

Previous Stories in this Series:

News

Players

Tournaments

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