Wednesday, 13 Nov 2024

Badminton Pan America: A Story of Passion and Dedication

As an athlete, mother, volunteer, and manager, Pilar Carrillo has always been closely involved with badminton. Her unwavering dedication has propelled her to great heights within the sport. Currently serving as the Pan Am Chief Operating Officer, Pilar has received recognition for her valuable contributions over the past 10 years. In this article, we’ll delve into Pilar’s journey in badminton and her successful professional career.

A Humble Beginning

Pilar’s involvement in badminton began as a volunteer for the Badminton Commission of the Regatas Lima Club. It was there that she crossed paths with the president of the Peruvian Badminton Federation, who invited her to join the board as the General Secretary. Her passion and commitment in this role caught the attention of the Peruvian Sports Institute (IPD), who offered her the position of Technical Coordinator of Badminton.

Bridging the Gap

The Badminton Pan-American Confederation (Badminton Pan Am) had its headquarters in the United States, which posed a language barrier for Spanish-speaking countries. Pilar, fluent in both English and Spanish, was hired to address this issue and facilitate communication between Badminton Pan Am and the Spanish-speaking countries. This marked the beginning of her deeper involvement in the administrative aspects of the sport.

A Decade of Service

Tham Khảo Thêm:  News | BWF World Championships

In 2003, the president of the Peruvian Federation took over at Badminton Pan Am and appointed Pilar as the communication liaison for Spanish-speaking countries. Over the years, she gradually took on more responsibilities within the organization. Eventually, she was entrusted with the role of overseeing the Badminton Pan Am Office, where she has been serving diligently for the past 10 years.

A True Passion

For Pilar, badminton is not just a job—it runs in her blood. Her parents were avid badminton players, and she herself competed at a high level. Even her children have followed in her footsteps and embraced the sport. Everything she does for badminton is driven by her deep-rooted passion for the game.

“There are opportunities in life, challenges every day,” Pilar says. When the professional opportunity to work with Badminton Pan Am came knocking, she seized it without hesitation. With the support of her team, she strived to improve and elevate the sport in the region. Pilar emphasizes the importance of being involved in something that allows personal growth, creativity, and unwavering dedication.

A Fulfilling Journey

Pilar finds immense satisfaction in her role within badminton. She values the sense of usefulness, the connections with wonderful people, and the recognition for the collective efforts. As a mother of three children involved in sports, Pilar has experienced firsthand the positive impact sports can have on personal growth. She takes great pride in having achieved the dream of every athlete and parent—the opportunity to compete in the Olympic Games.

Overcoming Challenges

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Challenges are an inevitable part of life, and Pilar knows this all too well. Navigating the difficulties that come her way has taught her valuable lessons. She believes that from mistakes and setbacks, one learns and grows. Pilar emphasizes the importance of getting back up, acknowledging mistakes, and moving forward with resilience.

Gender Equality

Pilar’s experience in the male-dominated sports industry has led her to view the issue of gender equality from a unique perspective. She firmly believes that both men and women have equal opportunities and should be judged based on their capabilities and preparedness. Pilar encourages women to pursue their passions and to seek experiences and advice from those who have had life experiences. She underscores the importance of recognizing that education extends beyond textbooks and that learning from the “University of Life” is just as valuable.

The Rise of Women in Sports

Pilar is thrilled to witness the increasing number of women involved in various roles within the sports industry. As athletes, coaches, technical officials, and administrators, women are making their mark in Pan-American sports. She expresses gratitude towards the parents who provide their daughters with opportunities, support their careers, and motivate them to pursue their dreams.

In conclusion, Pilar Carrillo’s journey in badminton is a testament to her passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment. Her role as the Pan Am Chief Operating Officer and her invaluable contributions have left a lasting impact on the sport. Through her experience, Pilar encourages others to embrace challenges, strive for gender equality, and embrace the power of sports in personal development. To learn more about Badminton Pan America and its initiatives, visit Carnegiecentre.com.

Tham Khảo Thêm:  BWF News