Peter Gade, being part of the Women’s Singles Camp that is getting underway this week, sees the potential of European female players to be in the top of the world.
Until Sunday, talented girls and top players from Denmark, England, France, the Netherlands, Spain, Bulgaria, Sweden, Estonia and Slovakia are practising at Badminton Europe's Centre of Excellence in Holbæk to improve their game.
On Thursday, Peter Gade has made his way to Holbæk. Together with Denmark’s national coach, Kim Nielsen, he was leading the first training session on Day 3 of the Women’s Singles camp that is hosted by Badminton Europe.
- It was a great experience to work with these girls in one place. They are some of the best European Singles players we have. They are the future of European badminton to fight against the strong Asian competition, Gade told Badminton Europe.
Learning from each other
Gade revealed that the camp is a good opportunity for the girls to reflect on their game and to compare themselves with each other. They can also see how the others handle the basic exercises as well as how they are mentally, physically and technically.
- The girls get inspired by each other and learn something. Despite them coming from different countries, they showed great spirit and supported each other. Being together for a whole week, they can maybe build some relationships for the future, he said.
Gade’s wish: More European top players in the future
When it comes to Europe competing against their strong Asian opponents, Gade hopes to see more European female players in the top of the world rankings in the future.
- Europe is partly already at the same level as Asia. Carolina Marin or Mia Blichfeldt are the best examples, he said.
- But of course, we want more than one or two players from Europe that can compete with Asia. That takes a lot of practice and hard work – for many years. The girls here are showing that they have the fire, the dream and the will to do that, he added.
Find all interviews and highlights of the Women’s Singles Camp here