As anticipation builds for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics, Badminton Canada announces the selection of three esteemed officials to represent Canada on the world stage.
Eric Desroches, an experienced Badminton World Federation (BWF) Umpire from Edmundston, New Brunswick, will make his third consecutive Olympic appearance at the Paris 2024 Games. Having previously officiated matches at the Tokyo and Rio Olympics, Desroches brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the sport. His journey from player to umpire spans a remarkable 17-year career marked by dedication and a commitment to excellence. "My goal was to go to the Olympics as a player," Desroches reflects, "but transitioning to an officiating role has allowed me to contribute to the sport in a different yet equally fulfilling capacity."
Joining Desroches in Paris is Ken Chung, the Canadian BWF Line Judge selected for the first time for the Olympics and Paralympics. Chung began badminton officiating in 2013 when a call was made to recruit people interested in becoming a line judge for the Toronto 2015 PanAm Games. “I have line judged at tournaments of varying levels. I was very fortunate to have had the opportunity to apply for and become a BWF International Line Judge a few years ago, representing Canada and PanAm”, said Chung.
Chung's expertise and precision as a line judge have earned him this prestigious opportunity to officiate at the highest level of badminton competition. In an interview with Badminton Canada, he described the feeling of participating in his first Summer Games in Paris this year: “I am very excited and very honoured to have the privilege to represent Canada as a technical official at the Olympics and Paralympics.”
With extensive experience, Jeff Bell has been the director of Badminton Alberta for more than 30 years. He has also been the Tournament Director of the Canada Open event since 2015, the most important badminton event in North America. Bell will be a Deputy Referee at the Paris Paralympics.
"Our officials will experience the game's highest level of play and speed at a complex level," said Bryan Merrett, Executive Director of Badminton Canada. " That means we can gather knowledge and experience to build excellence capacity nationally or at national/international events.”
The badminton events at the Paris 2024 Olympics will run from July 27 to August 5, coinciding with the larger Olympic Games, which will take place from July 26 to August 11.