Making a racquet with badminton

As a phoenix from the ashes, the Newcastle Badminton club has risen again.

One of the fastest racquet sports, players and enthusiasts find it hard to understand how interest in the club dwindled.

Youth is their hope this time around.

One of the new club’s founders, Christoffel van Zyl explained many beginners, especially youngsters, were being introduced to the sport to foster a love for it.

“At the moment we are coaching and motivating them. We encourage the beginners to enter tournaments and competitions.”

Despite a lack of experience on the court, Mr van Zyl said many of the first-time players showed great promise, and the upcoming C League championships would be a chance to experience competitive badminton.

On the other hand, many national-level players have also returned to the club.

“We have a handful of players who represented South Africa in badminton in the past.”

Asked to describe the game, Mr van Zyl said it was fun for the whole family, although regular practice was required to develop finer reflexes and skill.

“You need to be quite fit and it’s a bit of a time consumer. Badminton is the fastest racquet sport because the shuttlecock has to stay in the air. The better you get, the more enjoyable it becomes.”

Earlier in April, the revived club hosted the A League championships, where Mr van Zyl lifted the champion’s plate in the singles division, while his mother, Dawiena boasted both the singles and doubles female crowns.

It is thanks to his mother Mr van Zyl shows prowess with racquet in hand.

“It’s a good family sport and a motivation to get together. We always play together with the whole family,” explained Mrs van Zyl.

Lixon Thomas, on the other hand, has only been a member for three months.

“I enjoy it, especially coming to play after work. It makes me very fit; the best part is that you have to train daily to be perfect.”

The Badminton Club practices on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7pm at the Arbor Park Recreation Centre – there is no need to call ahead, players added.