The EGBA remain staunch in their pursuit of growth of the game and highlighted their dedication to development with the first session of their development programme at the John Barrable Hall, on Saturday, March 12, where around 100 children from the Wattville and Kingsway areas were introduced to the racquet sport.
Some top provincial and national players were on hand to give the youngsters a demonstration match and to assist with coaching and getting the children interested in badminton.
EGBA development officer Kevin Mann told the City Times that the aim of these development sessions and of the programme in general is to create interest in and awareness of the sport.
“We explain and try to teach them the very basics of the game,” he said.
“We hope that some of them will develop an interest that will filter through to the adults back home.”
Mann added that if the EGBA can get even as few as five young people from this group playing badminton it would be a success.
Talent identification is key to the success of the sport and the officials’ eyes were fixed on those who showed a glimmer of potential.
“We are trying to spot those who can play by watching their footwork and looking at other basic skills,” Mann said.
“Once we know who is who and who enjoyed it then we will have another, more in-depth training session.”
The development programme is focusing on primary schools and high schools throughout Ekurhuleni.
- Also, the EGBA runs development sessions at the hall on Friday afternoons, to try to promote the sport.
Racquets, shuttles, nets and courts are made available at the sessions.
If you would like to play badminton, at any age level, contact Elaine Smith on 083 701 6590.
