Four Nations Paralympics: Encountering Paralympians Inspired Anderson

Jayce September 6, 2024 1 0

For wildcard entrant Gregor Craig Anderson (WH2), results did not matter as much as the opportunity to make his international debut on home soil at the 2024 Four Nations Para-Badminton International in Glasgow.

Anderson was one of three other home hopefuls, alongside Andrew Davies (SH6) and Colin Leslie (SL3), who had the chance to compete against 2024 Paris Paralympians like Jamie Aranguiz, Kim Jungjun, and Thomas Jacobs.

The Scotsman expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “Getting the wildcard was fantastic. Competing against top players and improving myself was a great experience.”

In his first match in Group B, Anderson lost to Aranguiz 21-4, 21-2, and later that day, he was defeated by Jacobs 21-8, 21-4. Despite his poor performance in the WH2 category, Anderson remained focused on growth and development.

“I came here to ask questions, watch matches, learn from them, and turn that into victories,” he shared.

Competing on home ground held significant meaning.

“It means a lot. It’s great to have events here because Scotland has many fantastic venues. It’s convenient and easily accessible. The facilities are excellent.”

Besides competitive sports, Anderson is involved with the Dundee Dragons, a club known for multiple sports including wheelchair rugby league, wheelchair basketball, and para-badminton. As a coach, he is dedicated to nurturing young talent and emphasizing the broad benefits of sports.

“We help kids get involved in sports. It’s good for mental and physical health, and it provides a sense of belonging.”

Anderson in Action.

Another relatively new player in Glasgow was Melanie Griffiths (WH1) from Ireland. In July 2022, Griffiths was involved in an off-road motorcycle racing accident. Shortly after arriving at the hospital, she was told she would be in a wheelchair for the rest of her life.

The athlete from Bagenalstown was passionate about multiple sports, including rugby league and wheelchair basketball. She had been playing badminton from age 4 to 14. When asked if she wanted to play badminton again after the accident, she grabbed the opportunity with both hands while pursuing a degree in microbiology.

This was only Griffiths’ second international tournament, and despite losing her first group match 21-6, 21-10 to Anna Gomez, she was delighted to compete in Scotland.

“I just couldn’t really get into the game. When I saw the draw, I knew it would be tough. I haven’t had many training opportunities, but I’ll train as much as I can. I love competing in individual events and being part of a team, like playing basketball. Since the accident, sports have opened new doors for me. I’m passionate about it, I play some sports, and I work hard. I move from one thing to another, and that’s great for me.”

“I felt like a little chick on the court. I haven’t been well recently and felt physically weak. I’m happy to have won and hope to recover quickly for the next round.” — Bartlomiej Mroz (SU5) on overcoming illness to finish his first-round match.

“I may have lost two matches, but they both went to three games. I gave it my all and really pushed myself. I’m pleased with the level I showed. Mentally, I’m in a good place before the Paralympics.” — Marcel Adam (SL4).

“It’s my first time competing in the WH1 category, and being part of such a large team is amazing. They have been encouraging me and helping me cope with important moments, like stepping onto the court. I was really nervous.” — Laurine Marchand (SL3) praised the French team.

“I love Scotland. It’s a beautiful country and home to gentlemen. My favorite food is Korean, but I’m looking forward to trying a famous Scottish burger.” – Sooyoung Yu (WH2).