Badminton Victoria is proud to recognise two outstanding junior athletes, Jamie Zhu and Smrithi Adepu, who were honoured with the Sporting Blue Award at the 2024 Victorian School Sports Awards.

These awards celebrate excellence in school sport across the state, and both Jamie and Smrithi have demonstrated exceptional commitment, performance, and leadership throughout their badminton journeys.

Jamie Zhu – Glen Waverley Secondary College

Jamie is Victoria’s top-ranked Under 15 player and currently the youngest member of the Australian National Junior Squad. In addition to his achievements on court, he served as Sports Captain at Glen Waverley Secondary College and played a key role in their victory at the Victorian All Schools Championship.

“One of my favourite moments has to be competing in the nationals team event—it’s a chance to work alongside my Victorian teammates and always creates unforgettable memories.”

Jamie’s recent achievements include:

• 2024 U15 Victorian State Titles: Boys’ Singles, Doubles & Mixed Doubles Champion

• 2024 U17 Victorian State Titles: Boys’ Doubles Runner-Up

• 2024 U17 Junior Circuit: Boys’ Doubles Winner

• 2024 YONEX U15 Nationals: Mixed Doubles Champion, Boys’ Doubles Runner-Up

• 2024 Vic Graded Series: Men’s Singles (B) Winner

Smrithi Adepu – Maribyrnong College

Smrithi is the current U15 National Champion in both Singles and Mixed Doubles, and a member of Badminton Australia’s Junior Falcons. She is recognised not only for her achievements in competition, but also for her strong work ethic, academic excellence, and leadership.

“I especially like those long rallies with your opponent… it becomes more intense and enjoyable. For the hard moments, the biggest challenge is staying mentally focused—whether in training or competition.”

Smrithi’s recent achievements include:

• 2024 U15 Victorian State Titles: Triple Gold (Singles, Doubles, Mixed Doubles)

• 2024 U15 Nationals: Double Gold (Singles, Mixed Doubles) + Team Gold (Victoria)

• 2024 U17 Nationals: Singles Silver, Teams Gold (Victoria)

• 2024 City of Melbourne Protech Open: Women’s Singles Champion

• 2024 NSW Easter Open: A Grade Women’s Singles Gold

• 2023 U15 Nationals: Girls’ Singles Silver, Mixed Doubles Bronze

• 2023–24 Junior Circuit: 5 medals (2 Gold, 3 Silver)

• MSA Sporting Awards: Endeavour Award for Badminton

We extend our congratulations to both athletes and their support networks, including their families, coaches, schools, and clubs. Their achievements highlight the strength of junior development in Victoria and the bright future of Australian badminton.

Badminton Victoria is proud to support these talented young athletes and looks forward to seeing their continued growth in the sport.