Gail Emms on life away from the Court

Gail Emms enjoyed a long and distinguished career thanks largely to her supremely competitive nature. Whether simply training or going for Olympic glory she strived for perfection. This led to multiple titles including a silver medal at the Athens Olympics and a World Championship title in Berlin.

Making the incredibly tough decision to walk away from the sport was always going to be easy, especially with the lure of a home Olympics in 2012. Competing in a home Games would persuade many to give it one last shot but Emms is a strong-willed character that settles for nothing but the best.

Having announced her retirement after the Beijing Olympics, Emms has no regrets over her decision. “If I was going to go to the Olympics then I want to be the best and I want to win. When I went to Beijing I was in the best shape of my life and with my hand on my heart I could say I gave it absolutely everything. I am now going on to the next stage of my career and I am really enjoying it.”

Since her retirement Emms has tried her hand at presenting and has even written a number of articles for the Daily Mail. However, her competitive spirit has meant that she could not fully walk away from the sport that gave her so much.

With a wealth of experience Emms has become an ambassador for the sport and has even been running master-classes for young hopefuls. The 33-year-old has recently been working with a number of badminton players all looking to replicate her success.

“I am working with a number of the guys who will be heading to the Commonwealth Games in Delhi. It’s an amazing opportunity for me to work in a mentor role and as I get fitter and fitter I might even get on the court with them and hit a few shots.”

You can tell from the excitement in Emms’ voice that she cannot wait to get back on the court and work directly with the youngsters. Having recently become a mum for the first time she had been stuck on the sidelines and jokes she is more used to singing ‘wheels on the bus’ than hitting the shuttle around.

Emms cannot wait to mentor the new generation of stars but they will certainly not be in for an easy ride. Having worked hard throughout her career she wants to see the same determination to succeed in today’s youngsters.

“Before I fell pregnant I was working with some of the guys and it was great fun, but also very frustrating. Sometimes I want to bash their heads together as I don’t think they have any idea how much hard work it takes to make it. If I had my way I would cut them off the programme.

“The ones that are willing to listen and go the extra mile are the ones that will succeed. If they are prepared to step out of their comfort zone I want to work with them. They have this golden carrot dangled in front of them but if they think it’s just going to happen then that are badly mistaken.”

As well as helping the young badminton stars achieve success, Emms is hopeful that former doubles partner Nathan Robertson can yet again sample Olympic glory. “He is still such a talented player so it is fitness that will be the key. Part of me thinks how can he replace me but he is a great friend and we have been through so much together. I wish him all the success in the world.”

Although Emms has retired from the game it seems we are sure to see her influence in the future. If one of her young protégées has half the determination and drive of Emms then they will be sure to succeed.

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Gail Emms was speaking ahead of the Sainsbury’s UK School Games which takes place in Gateshead, Sunderland and Newcastle, September 2-5. For more information visit www.ukschoolgames.com