2nd November, 2023
Badminton England are deeply saddened to be taught that former Chairman and President John Havers has handed away on the age of 92.
John made a major contribution in direction of constructing the profile of badminton in England on and off the courtroom all through his profession as a participant, supervisor, selector and administrator.
Born in Romford, his enjoying profession began within the Barking League, however he was quickly enjoying for Essex earlier than his performances introduced him to the eye of the England selectors.
In 1965, he grew to become the English Nationals males’s doubles champion alongside youthful brother Invoice Havers within the English Nationwide Badminton Championships.
John received seven caps for England and the pair grew to become among the best badminton groups within the nation, ending runners-up in the identical event in 1964 and 1968. In 1967, he was additionally runner-up within the combined doubles of the Nationwide Championships with sister-in-law Patricia Web page.
John and Invoice Havers, November 1963
In the direction of the top of his illustrious enjoying profession, John was appointed as a selector of the English badminton staff and managed the 1974 Commonwealth Video games badminton staff in Christchurch, New Zealand.
He continued to hone his management abilities off courtroom in 1966, when he was elected Deputy Chairman of Badminton England, ultimately turning into Chairman in 1996.
John served as Chairman till 2004, when he was elected as President for the governing physique.
He represented Badminton England and lots of different sporting our bodies, together with Badminton Europe and the Badminton World Federation.
John was an avid cricket and West Ham supporter, however he was most captivated with being an envoy for badminton.
His contributions had been recognised by the BWF when he was awarded the Meritorious Service Award in 2004.
In the identical 12 months, he was elected President and served for six years till 2010 alongside his function as a Trustee of the Nationwide Badminton Museum.
In 2015, he was awarded once more with the Distinguished Service Award, “in recognition of lengthy and distinguished service to badminton all through the world,” which is able to function his legacy for years to return.
Following a protracted battle with Alzheimer’s, John handed away along with his household by his bedside.
Badminton England CEO Sue Storey stated: “John had given a lifetime dedication to the game of badminton and everybody at Badminton England and the entire badminton neighborhood are grateful for his ardour and dedication to our sport. Thanks John and relaxation in peace.”
John can be missed by his many mates all through badminton, and the ideas of everybody at Badminton England are along with his household at this tough time.
