Selection and Deselection Policy for Badminton

This document sets out the selection and deselection process for inclusion in the performance programme squad for Badminton.  

This does not cover selection for an individual event, team, or match as that is at the professional judgment of the Coaches within the programme. 

Performance Athlete Code of Conduct statement: 

I understand for selection to the squad I will need to demonstrate that I have the appropriate and necessary skills and commitment, and that my performance, fitness, and lifestyle are at the required level.  I understand that selection involves complex judgements about the attributes of individuals and their potential contribution to a team or squad. 

Selection Process to the Badminton Squad: 

Selection is the responsibility of the Head Coach (Dave Lindley) for the performance programme. Selection decisions should be fair, transparent, and equitable. 

Programme Outcome goals 2025-26: 

  • Win BUCS League & Cup, Women’s 1, Men’s 1, Women’s 2, Men’s 2. 
  • 4 Golds at BUCS Individuals. 
  • Win Domestic & International medals at the relevant levels across all squads.  
  • Above 85% availability across all squads to compete. 

Performance level selection criteria:  

Squad Criteria 

  • Performance 1 
    • Contribute to achieving the outcome goals for the 1st team and BUCS Individuals stated on the performance plan.  
    • 2 finals of Domestic Gold competitions (Separate competitions) 
    • 2  Medals in Badminton Europe / BWF international competitions. (Separate competitions)         
  • Performance 2
    • Contribute to achieving the outcome goals for the 2nd team stated on the performance plan.
    • 2 finals of Domestic Silver competitions (Separate competitions) 
  • Performance Sparring 
    • Contribute to achieving the outcome goals for the 1st team and BUCS Individuals, stated on the performance plan.  
    • Player adds value to performance 1 sessions in their own event.                
  • BUCS Sparring 
    • Players who may be involved in BUCS 2nd team 
    • Players who can add value to performance 1 or 2 in identified event groups. 
    • Players identified by AU coaches to trial with performance. 
    • 2x Semi-final of Badminton England Silver competitions. (Separate competitions.

Achieving one of the above criteria in any category will qualify for selection into the squad. 

All the above criteria have a level of subjectivity which is at the discretion of the programme.  

Additional selection criteria considered: 

Where similar levels of performance are present or space in squads is limited, the following factors will be taken into consideration. 

  • Athlete’s ability to add value to Performance 1 or 2 sessions.  
  • Understanding and execution of complex exercises. 
  • Be a positive team player. 
  • Demonstrates commitment to progressing in badminton. 
  • Contribution to supporting wider programme activity. 

Performance Level Minimum Expectations 

Squad Expectations 

  • Performance 1 
    • Minimum of 4 sessions per week 
    • 75% or above completion of gym sessions (with at least 1 with S & C coach) 
    • Compete in at least 2 tournaments (domestic or international) per semester 
    • Demonstrate engagement with IDT support staff 
    • Compete in BUCS league and cup fixtures as agreed with the head coach 
    • Compete in BUCS Nationals (if selected)                        
  • Performance 2 
    • Minimum of 3 sessions per week including 1 AU Advanced session per week 
    • 75% or above completion of gym sessions 
    • Compete in at least 1 tournament (domestic or international) per semester 
    • Compete in BUCS league and cup fixtures as agreed with the head coach 
    • Compete in BUCS Nationals (if selected)                 
  • Performance Sparring 
    • Attend sessions as agreed with the head coach 
    • Compete in BUCS league and cup fixtures as agreed with the head coach 
    • Compete in BUCS Nationals (if selected)             
  • BUCS Sparring 
    • Attend at least 75% of AU Advanced sessions in order to access performance sessions when there is capacity 
    • Compete in BUCS league and cup fixtures as agreed with the head coach 
    • Compete in BUCS Nationals (if selected) 

Rationale for deselection from the programme or group: 

  • No longer meets the performance level for the group. (Drop in level) 
  • Doesn’t meet the expectations for the group. (change in commitment) 
  • Ability to maintain acceptable academic standards of attendance and grades. 
  • Not demonstrating the attitudes or behaviours required. Examples below (not limited to), 
    • Communication 
      • Complete requested plans & forms within timeframes, inform of changes,   
    • Punctuality 
      • Arrive at the required times for meetings, sessions & appointments. 
    • Respect 
      • Understanding, awareness and tolerance of other’s beliefs & values.  
    • Non-supportive characteristics 
      • Towards other athletes and the programme, within sessions or externally. 

Selection & Review process: 

  • Selections for performance squads takes place annually in Sept/Oct by the performance coaches. 
  • Reviews are informally undertaken after each semester, with athletes achieving criteria considered for selection.  
  • Deselections can take place at any point following any infringements. 

If an athlete is not happy with the selection decisions these steps may be taken:

A. Non-selection

  1. If an athlete is not selected, they may seek honest and constructive feedback from the Head Coach in the first instance.
  2. If the athlete believes the sport has not followed due process, they may refer their non-selection to the Performance Manager.
  3. Information will be gathered from the Head Coach and the athlete. The matter will then be reviewed by members of the Performance Leadership Team who are not directly involved in that performance programme.

B. Deselection from the squad

  1. The Head Coach will inform the athlete of the reasons for deselection, based on the criteria set out for the relevant sport.
  2. The athlete can expect honest and constructive feedback, including what would be required for them to be considered for selection again.
  3. If the athlete believes the sport has not followed due process, they may refer their deselection to the Performance Manager.
  4. Information will be gathered from the Head Coach and the athlete. The matter will then be reviewed by members of the Performance Leadership Team who are not directly involved in that performance programme.

C. Appeal

  1. If an athlete believes the selection or deselection process has not been followed correctly, they may appeal to the Performance Director.
  2. Information will be gathered from the Head Coach and the athlete. The appeal will be reviewed by the Performance Director and the Director of Sport.