All socials aside, Badminton has a range of inclusive and diverse opportunities available if you’re looking to take up a sport.
Firstly, there is an intramural social badminton league, ran by the university. One of the competitive players is always on hand to assist and help improve your skills. The goal is to play in a relaxed environment, and meet new people!
It’s a great way to blow off some energy, and exercise without a taxing trip to the gym! You can sign up via the NCL sport app anytime.
Of course, there is also a competitive side to the sport at university. There are three men’s and three women’s teams – which is big for women. All three teams train twice a week with current county level coaches who are well qualified in their field.
Of course, there is also a competitive side to the sport at university.
Women’s and Men’s Ones are in Division One of the Northern Tier, playing a BUCS game almost every Wednesday. There are six teams in the league, and there is the opportunity to play once at home and once away, with really competitive play.
In addition, Women’s Ones receive strength and conditioning training once a week from a specialist, alongside the scholars.
All six teams recently attended the national BUCS competitions, fostering even better competition, and a chance to improve their skills whilst playing teams from the southern universities, who they would normally be unable to compete with due to regional divisions.
There are opportunities to play in singles, mixed doubles and doubles – within which there is open and women’s doubles. Badminton England has recently changed its categories to make the sport more inclusive to everyone regardless of gender, reducing labels and encouraging diversity.
It’s a close knit society, and very supportive. Millie Cooke commented, “ As a first year, I’ve never felt so welcomed as I do here,” continuing to say the players are all good friends even outside training and regularly catch up.
The social secretaries plan to increase the number of non-drinking socials, alongside their already existing ones, to encourage more people to join the sport.
So, if you’re looking for a sport to join, Badminton could be the one for you!