LBA Junior badminton Club

Club Time: Saturdays

Contact: Graham Forryan 01530 245098 ; Julie Pope 01162867268

Venue: Babington Academy

2024-2025 Activities:

Another excellent year for our Saturday morning sessions, with 59 players actively participating!

Our players range in age from 7 to 18 years and are divided into two groups based on ability: beginners and advanced, with each session lasting one and a half hours. Overall, we have 43 boys and 16 girls, all of whom are registered with Badminton England.

Unfortunately, we have had to turn away quite a few players, but we have suggested other clubs they could try, or placed them on our waiting list for the summer term.

Throughout the year, both singles and doubles matches are played, and we also run a singles ladder board for both boys and girls. Trophies are awarded at the end of the season.

We always encourage our players to enter Leicestershire tournaments for new experiences and enjoyment, and many have done well. Some of our more talented younger players have now been given the opportunity to receive extra tuition run by the LSBA on Saturday afternoons, and some have progressed to the Performance Centre.

The club has also supported members in achieving their Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Awards, whether for volunteering or playing aspects, as well as assisting with video recordings for their Badminton GCSE.

Additionally, we are proud to celebrate Krish Somani, who achieved his Leaders Award run by Badminton England over two weekends at Milton Keynes. He was identified as one of the top four participants, standing out for his enthusiasm, contribution to sessions, and passion for volunteering. Krish has already volunteered at two tournaments and continues to support our club. Well done, Krish!

Many of our advanced players are now playing senior badminton at various clubs, gaining valuable experience.

Finally, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our four main coaches—Grahame, Ken, Greg, and myself—as well as all volunteers and parents for their hard work and dedication throughout the year.

Julie & Grahame