Oscar Butler (L5) has been awarded Badminton England's National 'Young Volunteer of the Year 2022' award in recognition of his incredible volunteering efforts for the sport.

Not only does Oscar play badminton for club and county (U16 and U18), but he also volunteers for Norfolk Junior Badminton, local clubs, in school and with Badminton England directly at the National Badminton Centre in Milton Keynes.

Earlier this year, Oscar's contribution to volunteering was rewarded through a nomination for National Youth Volunteer of the Year. Despite a record number of nominations, Oscar was the overall winner, and was presented with his award on-court on the finals day of the All England International Tournament at the Birmingham Arena. 

Badminton England commented: "Oscar is a truly inspiring young man who, at only 14 years of age, has shown huge potential as a volunteer in Norfolk."

Julie Pike, Badminton England Relationship Manager and Oscar's nominator, remarked: "Oscar is a brilliant role model for the young players within Norfolk and helps at a number of settings – for the younger players in his school, at a local junior club and with juniors in the younger age group in the county set up. He has thrown himself into volunteering and has enjoyed learning new skills, which has provided him with greater confidence. Not only has he enjoyed supporting others to improve their badminton, but it has inspired and motivated him to continue to develop and improve his own badminton.”

In addition to this award, Oscar has successfully completed and continued to be part of the 2021 Badminton Young Leaders programme run by Badminton England, and has also been appointed as one of the first ever National Youth Voice Forum members. The Youth Forum aims to ensure the voice of young people is heard and badminton is an inclusive and welcoming place for all young people. As a result of his involvement, he has been invited to attend the Commonwealth Games to help out with the badminton competition there!

Congratulations to Oscar for his impressive commitment and enthusiasm!