New Zealand once again feels the evident mark of Neale Thompson and his dynasty in the badminton-playing populace.

Thompson has been recognized in Dunedin’s Badminton Hall as he watched four of his young grandchildren compete on the South Island Junior championships this week, armed with Yonex badminton rackets.

Even in his retirement, Thompson never ceases to show his support in the sport and the different leagues organized every year to serve as venues of healthy competition. Thompson now lives in a Winton, where his four titles are displayed. Thompson is New Zealand’s prided badminton legend, with four titles in the men’s doubles in his pocket. He was also the country’s representative in five international badminton meets in the late 50s and early 60s.

Today. Thompson continues to run a seemingly sporting dynasty with the skills of his grandchildren. Not only did this sporting genius excel in badminton, but also in cricket. He played in the Plunket Shield tournaments in 1956 until 1963. Thompson represented Otago in many of his victories in cricket.

Thompson expressed his hope for his grandchildren to bring their name in international badminton events as he did. To date, he is the only one in their family to have reached such an accomplishment. He is very optimistic and confident in the abilities of his grandchildren, as guaranteed sights in the international arena in the future.

Thompson’s wife, Fay, is also an excellent badminton player. The couple met in one of their tournaments where they both were sent to represent Southland. Their children took on from their genes and played professional badminton in national events to represent Southland and Otago.

The present Thompson generation who are potentially their grandfather’s equals are Jessica, Cameron, and Hayden. As young as nine years old, Jessica has been showcasing very promising skills on the court.