Making their mark: Noraqilah Maisarah Ramdan with Justin Goh after capturing the National Under-18 mixed doubles title.
PETALING JAYA: Communication is key in doubles and this is why national shuttler Noraqilah Maisarah Ramdan’s ability to speak Mandarin is handy.
The versatile 17-year-old, who plays in both the women’s and mixed doubles, proved herself as a fast learner when she picked up the language after joining the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).
“I picked up Mandarin after listening to my teammates in BAM speak to each other,” said Noraqilah.
“Knowing the language is really helpful as it helps me communicate with my partners.”
Noraqilah captured the National Under-18 mixed doubles title with Justin Goh last month after only combining for a month.
The youngster, who also plays in the women’s doubles with Nicole Chau, is now eyeing a positive outing with both her partners in her maiden Asian Junior Championships which starts today in Yogyakarta.
“The Under-18 title has really increased my confidence ahead of the Asian Junior meet,” said Noraqilah.
“I have only been playing with Justin for about two months but I feel our understanding is good. I do feel a bit nervous to play in my first Asian Juniors but I hope I can perform my best.
“My preparations with the team has been good so far and hopefully I can translate what I have produced in training into the competition.”
Noraqilah never expected to be selected in the national team.
“I entered the Melaka state team when I was 10 and I was 13 when i joined the national. I felt it was a bit late to be called up to the national team,” said Noraqilah.
“I started playing badminton with my father in front of my house.
“A neighbour saw me and suggested to my father to send me to the state team.
“Although I did not expect it, I was happy to be picked in the national team after that.”
