NMBA Opens Tryouts for NMI U17 National Badminton Team

The Northern Marianas Badminton Association (NMBA) is pleased to announce open tryouts for the NMI U17 National Team, which will represent the NMI at the Pacific U17 Invitation Team Challenge in Auckland, New Zealand in February 2026.

This is an opportunity for all male and female young athletes to test their skills, challenge themselves in a competitive environment, and represent the NMI in an international tournament. The tournament is a key event in the Oceania region, bringing together top junior players and providing valuable experience in a high-level team competition.

Tryouts Schedule and Location:

• Saturday, September 27, 9:00 AM – NMBA Gym, TSL Sports Complex
• Sunday, September 28, 9:00 AM – NMBA Gym, TSL Sports Complex
• Monday, September 29, 2:30 PM – NMBA Gym, TSL Sports Complex

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be born 2010 or after
• Must hold a valid U.S. Passport

The Pacific U17 Invitation Team Challenge is the next step in the same competition pathway that saw our U15 National Team win a bronze medal at the Pacific U15 Invitation Team Challenge in Auckland, New Zealand this year. In addition, the our U19 National Team also earned a bronze medal at the VICTOR Oceania Junior Team Championships in June 2025, underscoring the impressive development of badminton in the NMI.

NMBA president Merlie Tolentino said the association is looking forward to seeing the next generation of players take this opportunity. “Our junior players have shown that they can compete at a high level in multiple international tournaments just this year. The bronze medals from both our U15 and U19 teams are a reflection of their dedication to train and improve their skills, and the strong support of our badminton community. Our passionate and talented coaches and officials have created an elite training program for our young players that showcase their potential and commitment, so we encourage all eligible players to take part in these tryouts and take advantage of this opportunity.”

For more information, please contact Janelle Pangilinan at (670) 783-2813 or Nate Guerrero at (670) 989-8479. Follow @nmibadminton on social media to stay updated on all NMBA activities and events.