Was reading this article world badminton: http://www.worldbadminton.net/Portal/desktopdefault.aspx?tabid=10&ItemID=1496 Nick's actually become British and is playing for the UK at Thomas Cup? I'm mean Nick's an awfully talented guy, it was kinda unfortunate that he was from WA instead of Vic where he could've gotten much better training with the national squad and been a better player, but now he's gone to play for the UK?! Anyone in the UK want to fill me in on what/when did this happen?
He's playing for England at the Thomas Cup - the UK does not compete as one team in the Thomas Cup and in almost all other competititons. The only exception I think is the Olympics. As far as Nick goes, the first time I saw him playing over here was 3/4 years ago I think. He'd come over to play and train at Bath University. I'm not sure when he made the switch to play for England, if it was part of his plan all along or it was something he decided upon after getting here. You're right though - he's one hell of a player. Fortunately I've never had to play against him myself
Even up to a year ago Kidd was behind the English players of similar/younger age, eg Honey, Smith, Rice but in the last twelve months he has clearly impressed the coaches and has represented England in TC euro qualifiers, winning a crunch match to put England through to the finals. Physically Kidd has always been very powerful hopefully now he is developing the mental / technical side of his game.
About time you read up on this, I did mention in my reply ( "Ex-Australian plays for England " 15/02/04 19:20) to post : Thomas & Uber Cup - European zone qualifications http://www.badmintonforum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=13637
I had previously heard that Nick had left Australia a while back (probably just after turning 20) to try his luck in England. Not sure whether he's training full time or doing any part time studies at all. I mean, if he's supposedly improved within the time he's been in England, I would assume he's training really hard and getting the appropriate advise. By the way, even if he was in VIC, I doubt he would be enjoying as much success as he is now. At least he's got a better support group there. p.s. - the article states Nick is 22. I don't think so...I'm 22, and he's a little older than I am!
I saw him playing in the Scottish Open last November and he is a good player and very talented. I'm sure he was in as representing England then!
never realised that Nick Kidd was anything but british - he's very talented - very fit - i saw him playing paul trueman at the nationals this year, he's got the same sort of determination as Simon Archer - very driven and competitive - i think he trains as hard as most of the top asian players - his legs are huge! and he's quite prepared to dive the length of the court to make a return - much to the frustration of his opponents.
