In 2024, Badminton Victoria was successful in obtaining the Community Activation Grant. The grant aimed to foster gender equality and sought to enhance the participation of women and girls in community sports and recreation. Therefore, Badminton Victoria was able to support women by offering access to professional development opportunities in the form of Badminton Victoria’s Umpiring Course.

(Tracy Chu in White Sweatshirt)

As a badminton enthusiast, Tracy Chu embraced the opportunity these grants provided to deepen her involvement in the sport she loves. When she learned that the 2032 Brisbane Olympics would be held in Australia, she saw a new way to contribute to her favorite sport. "I've been playing badminton for years," Tracy says. "Realizing I wouldn't participate as an athlete, I want to be part of the Olympics in another way."

“While this may be a dream too big, I started to look for ways to become an official in badminton tournaments.   It then came to my notice that an umpiring course  sponsored by Badminton Victoria and the Community Activation Grant from the Office for Women in Sport and Recreation was calling for female participants to explore umpire pathway. It was perfect timing" she recalls.

The umpiring course was an eye-opening experience for Tracy. "The instructor was incredibly knowledgeable and shared not just the rules but also real-life experiences from high-level events," she says. "Despite playing badminton for years, I realized there was so much more to learn about the games. The course deepened my understanding and highlighted the professionalism required in umpiring, not just knowing the rules but managing games, players, and even the crowd."

"I am grateful to Badminton Victoria and the Community Activation Grant from the Office for Women in Sport and Recreation for supporting me to embark on my umpiring journey.  I am excited about the sponsorship  as it sends a strong message that women are encouraged to take leadership roles in badminton." Tracy welcomes more initiatives to boost women's participation in international badminton events.  She also hopes that flexibility be given to qualified umpires to take part in Olympics regardless of age, such that women and men who were unable to pursue umpiring in the early days due to family responsibilities or other circumstances may stand a chance in making a contribution after certain age  .

Looking ahead, Tracy is working towards national accreditation.  It will be quite a journey for her to fulfilling the required years of experience in order to umpire international events. " This is a new area to me and I will take it step by step.  I love badminton and am hoping my passion and commitment will take me to the international arena one day and get me connected with badminton lovers around the world."

"I encourage other women to seize the opportunities to pursue leadership roles in badminton. Together, we can contribute significantly to the sport we love." she reflects.