Jody pictured above with Orkney team-mate Rebecca Reid
“It is impossible to pick one memory from Orkney 2025 to write about. My mind fills with all of the moments that created one of the best weeks of my life. Walking down Broad Street with team Orkney was spectacular. Seeing the crowds of people that had lined the streets to support us was so overwhelming; I couldn’t contain my tears. In that moment I felt as though all of my sacrifices had been worth it; to be part of the home island games team.
“The whole island was immersed in a bubble of excitement. The atmosphere in the badminton arena was greater than I ever imagined, to the extent that the horns were banned after the first day! This didn’t dull our home crowd; the cheering and shouting only got louder. A standout moment for me was during my quarterfinal match against the top seed. When I won the point to secure the second set, the crowd erupted. I glanced to my right to be met with the balcony and seating stands completely full of people willing me on. My opponent won our match however having so many familiar faces surrounding me sustained me during the game; that support was endless throughout the week.
“The games truly earned itself the name of the friendly games, the competition was fierce but off court there was a feeling of deep understanding amongst athletes. Being confined in the arena meant friendships that would take years to build developed over a few days. This was one of my favourite parts about Orkney 2025; it brought people together, regardless of who they were, what they did or where they came from.
“A core memory I treasure is standing on the podium receiving my bronze medal with my doubles partner Rebecca. Feeling the weight of the medal around my neck, surrounded by my family who have supported be through every high and low, meant everything. Every hardship I’d faced was worth it for that singular moment.
“I could write endlessly about my memories yet no words will ever do them justice. The Orkney Island Games 2025 will always be a time that I reminisce, filled with happiness and pure joy.”
Jody Groundwater
Memory added on January 8, 2026
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