Two of Jamaica’s most promising youth badminton players are on the path to parlaying their initial curiosity in the sport into scholastic opportunities.

Ruth-Ann Wadgle of Oberlin High School and Jamarie Thompson of Dinthill Technical High School are the latest recipients of the Jamaica Badminton Association’s MVP Youth League Scholarship.

The scholarships not only reward exceptional talent, but, also champions talent, discipline, leadership and academic ambition throughout the season.

For Wadgle, her interest in badminton came out of a desire to challenge herself. Four years on, she’s with the guidance of her coach Rev. Obren Thomas, she’s expertly honing her craft.

Now, Wadgle is looking forward to pairing her skills on the court with her lofty academic pursuits.

Ruth-Ann Wadgle.

Coach Thomas, says Wadgle exemplifies the ethos of the MVP Scholarship.

Rev. Obren Thomas.

Meanwhile, similar to Wadgle, Jamarie Thomas has humble beginnings in badminton. He said he was curious about the intensity of the sport leading to him becoming a player.

The Dinthill standout says his coaches both at school and at club level were instrumental in him becoming a better player. He says the highlight of 2026 came in lifting this year’s championship trophy.

The MVP Scholarship, for him, is more than validation of his hard work, he described it as a stepping stone to his future.

“It eases some of the financial pressure on my family,” he said. “Sixth form is expensive, and with university approaching, this support removes some of that burden.”

Thomas plans to pursue studies in accounting.