Belgrade was the center of European badminton from 28 to 29 March, hosting one of the most important events in the sport – the Badminton European Confederation (BEC) Congress. This prestigious gathering was attended by representatives of all major badminton federations from Europe, as well as delegates from the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and other international sports institutions.
Bosnia and Herzegovina was proudly represented by Brane Srdić, President of the Badminton Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Dario Milačak from the Badminton Club Sertini Doboj. Their presence is another important step in the affirmation of Bosnian badminton on the international scene.
“Such events are crucial for countries like BiH that want to develop badminton and be part of the European and global sports community. We also presented the idea of a global fund for the development of badminton in small countries, which has been recognized as extremely valuable,” Srdić pointed out.
Dario Milačak further drew attention to the social component of badminton through an initiative he presented in Belgrade: “We presented the Badminton for Inclusion project as part of the Badminton Europe initiative, which aims to include children with developmental disabilities in badminton activities across Europe. The project generated great interest and was recognized as one of the examples of how sport can be a tool for inclusion and equality.”
The Congress was proudly organized by the Badminton Federation of Serbia, led by Radomir Jovović and Miodrag Kaličanin, who, together with their team, created an event to remember. The professionalism, hospitality and enthusiasm of the hosts were met with enthusiasm by all participants.
One of the most emotional moments of the Congress was the solemn ceremony of announcing Paul Erik Hoyer, President of the World Badminton Federation and Olympic champion, as a new member of the European Badminton Confederation Hall of Fame.
Holding such an event in Belgrade once again confirms the growing importance of the region in the badminton world, while the presence of representatives of BiH gives a strong impetus to the further development of this sport in our country.
