Who
We
Are
Discover the passion, dedication, and excellence that drives the Northern Marianas Badminton Association forward.
Our Mission
To develop and promote badminton as a sport for all ages in the Northern Mariana Islands by providing inclusive opportunities for players, coaches, administrators, and officials to learn, compete, and excel at all levels.
Our Vision
To establish badminton as a cornerstone of healthy living, youth empowerment, and sporting excellence in the Northern Mariana Islands, with strong community participation and global connections.
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Our Impact
Local Coaches & Technical Officials
Senior Players
Student Players
Our Values
Passion and Excellence in Badminton
Striving for the highest standards in badminton development and competition.
Commitment to Youth Development
Committed to nurturing the next generation of badminton champions.
Innovation in Programs and Training
Implementing cutting-edge programs and training methodologies.
Advocacy for Health and Wellness
Promoting fitness and wellbeing for our players and their families.
Regional and Global Collaboration
Building strong partnerships within the international badminton community.
Leadership Team
Merlie Tolentino
President
Nate Guerrero
Vice President
Christy Villaflor
General Secretary
Shirley Kim
Treasurer
Janelle Pangilinan
Director
Lance Gallardo
Director
Paolo Quidato
Director
Our History
Through grassroots and interscholastic initiatives, local and international competitions, and training programs, the NMBA promotes badminton as a part of the NMI's sporting culture. We also invest in the development of our coaches, technical officials, and players, ensuring the sport's sustainability and growth locally, regionally, and internationally.
Since the 2022 Pacific Mini Games, the NMBA has gained acclaim for hosting successful international events, and every year it has hosted its signature events, the Northern Marianas Open and the Saipan International, two BWF Grade 3 International Series tournaments. These tournaments attract elite badminton players, including former World Junior Champions and Top 100-ranked athletes, offering our local players and technical officials valuable exposure to high-level competition.
With a mission to inspire a healthier, more active lifestyle through badminton, the NMBA strives to build a legacy of excellence and inclusivity that resonates across the region and beyond.
Our Achievements
2024 BWF Member Association Participation Award
In 2024, NMBA was honored with the BWF Member Association Participation Award for our exceptional Interscholastic Badminton League program. This accolade recognizes excellence, innovation, and impact in badminton programs worldwide, with NMBA standing out among 201 member associations. NMBA became the first member of Badminton Oceania and the first sports federation in the NMI to win an award from a world governing body of sports.
Through partnerships with the CNMI Public School System and TakeCare Insurance, the program has significantly increased student participation by 81%, established a junior national team, and contributed to the overall growth of the badminton in the region.
2025 BWF Membership Grant Impact Award Shortlist
In 2025, the NMBA was shortlisted for the prestigious BWF Membership Grant Impact Award, once again for our Interscholastic Badminton League program. This program has continued to grow and thrive, engaging over 300 middle and high school students every year.
2024 Sports Administrator of the Year
Also in 2025, NMBA President Merlie Tolentino received the Northern Marianas Sports Association's 2024 Sports Administrator of the Year, recognizing her outstanding leadership and efforts to grow and develop badminton in the NMI and Oceania. Through her leadership, the NMBA achieved great milestones including the prestigious BWF Member Association Participation Award, the development of the NMI Elite National Training Program, and the delivery of two successful BWF Grade 3 international Challenge tournaments – the Northern Marianas Open and the Saipan International – every year since 2023.
Our Partners
Working together to develop badminton in the NMI
Badminton World Federation
Member
Badminton Oceania
Member
Northern Marianas Sports Association
Member
Ready to Join Our Community?
Be part of the badminton revolution in the Northern Mariana Islands.