At 74 years young, Coach Robert remains an inspiring figure in the badminton world. With more than four decades of coaching experience, he has built not only winning teams, but a community of players who share his love and respect for the sport.
From a study hobby to a lifelong passion
Coach Robert first discovered badminton as an intramural sport in college 1973. What started as an informal activity quickly grew into a lifelong passion. Ten years later, in 1983he became the Head coach of the girls badminton team at TF North High School, a position that would shape the next 42 years of his life.
Team photo from 1992, including his son Eric and daughter Amy.
Building champions, on and off the field
Under his leadership, TF North achieved remarkable success with 32 Conference and Section Championships, Second place in 2010And back-to-back Illinois State Championships in 2013 and 2014. His teams were consistently among the top seven times top ten in the state.
Coach Robert also organized five badminton invitations per yeargiving players more opportunities to compete and grow. Even after retiring as head coach in 2022, he continues to train players and mentor high school coaches twice a week. His dedication was recognized when he was elected to the Badminton Hall of Fame in 2022, which is a fitting tribute to his decades of service to the sport.
Learn from the best
Throughout his career, Coach Robert has learned from top players and coaches around the world. He trained under Rasmus Fladberg (Denmark), Eric Pang (Netherlands)and received continued guidance from Kevin Hussey (USA) And Illian Perez (Cuba/USA) with whom he still has regular contact.
What keeps him going
When asked what he likes most about coaching, coach Robert answers that this is the growth he sees in his players, not only in skills, but also in trust, teamwork and discipline. “Watching young players develop, both on and off the field, has always been the most rewarding part of coaching,” he says.
Stay modest
For Coach Robert, humility means: remember that everyone starts as a beginner. “No matter how experienced you become, there is always something to learn from your players, from your colleagues and from the game itself.”
Keeping players motivated
He believes that motivation comes from creating a positive and supportive environment. “I remind my players that badminton is a journey. You don’t have to win every match, but you should always learn from every match.”
A lifelong student of the game
Even after decades of coaching success, Coach Robert still studies badminton strategies, attends clinics and practices weekly. “Badminton has taught me patience, perseverance and the joy of sharing knowledge,” he says.
Recent photo of Coach Robert and his student holding their favorite Abroz rackets
A coach who gives back
Today, Coach Robert calls himself one “Badminton Influencer”, not in the social media sense, but in the true sense of the word. He continues to promote the sport by sharing his time, knowledge and even equipment with players of all levels.
“I hand out key chains, bumper stickers, hooded sweatshirts, rackets, handles, covers, hats, water, etc. to all interested players,” he says.
“I never charge for the rackets or lessons. It’s all free.”
Former players often return to help train new players, which is a reflection of the strong badminton family he has built over the years. “We think this is our way of giving back to the sport that has given us so many fantastic memories,” he added.
Collaborate with Abroz
Coach Robert came across first Abroz rackets a few years ago and was impressed with them affordability, comfort and quality.
“Abroz rackets help players perform well without having to worry about injuries or costs,” he explains.
“They are lightweight, consistent and perfect for both new and experienced players.”
When asked about his favorite model, he smiles: “I’ve used several, but the Abroz Shark hammerhead shark model really stands out for its balance and control, ideal for training and tournament play.”
His message to beginners
Coach Robert’s advice is simple but powerful:
“Don’t be afraid of the game. Just pick up a racket and start playing. Badminton is for everyone, all ages and all levels. You’ll make friends, stay active and learn lessons that will last a lifetime.”
Final thoughts
From his first swing in college to his Hall of Fame recognition, Coach Robert has demonstrated what it means to lead with passion and humility. His story reminds us that badminton is more than competition. It’s over community, kindness and lifelong learning.
At Abroz, we are truly honored to have Coach Robert as part of our family and support his continued mission to grow the sport he loves.
When you buy Abroz, you do more than just buy a racket. You will support real badminton heroes like Coach Robert, along with countless coaches and passionate players who dedicate their lives to the sport. Abroz believes in caring for the people behind the game, not just the game itself. Every Abroz racket represents that commitment to uplift, encourage and support the community that keeps badminton alive.
One of his championship teams was featured on Badminton Monthly.
Coach Robert and team were featured on Southtownstar.
We offer free coaches because they are the unsung heroes who keep badminton alive. If you would like to nominate a coach who deserves recognition, please email catherine@badmintonbay.com.
– Team BadmintonBay.com & Abroz Sports
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