Since 2013, Dynamic Badminton has been committed to promoting this popular, fast-paced sport at the grassroots level.
Based at Olympic Park, the nonprofit organisation provides opportunities for players of all ages and abilities to smash it on the court.
According to Dynamic Badminton’s Jordan Kan, the sport’s popularity continues to grow. However, he recognised that some would-be players can be put off from participating by a lack of confidence. Jordan says beginners lack skills and belief in their abilities, which are barriers to getting involved.
Dynamic Badminton introduced the Move It Sundays initiative to address this. ‘The project aimed to get more new players regularly involved in badminton,’ says Jordan. A crucial aspect of Move It Sundays was a commitment to keep fees as low as possible. ‘We didn’t want potential players to be financially stressed,’ advises Jordan. This commitment ensured that everyone could feel welcome and included in the badminton community regardless of their financial situation.
Applying to the 2023 Your West Support Fund
helped kickstart the exciting initiative. The $10,000 funding made a massive contribution to the costs of buying new shuttles, hiring the courts, and paying coaches’ fees.
The programme ran over 39 weeks from April to December and was a resounding success. Players competed against others of similar abilities, and coaches offered expert training tips. ‘With the help of a coach, beginners can build their confidence and get interested in a new sport more quickly,’ says Jordan.
He reports that the programme has ensured more locals than ever can try badminton. Even better, many have continued with the sport, becoming regulars at Dynamic Badminton.
You’ll find Dynamic Badminton at Western Hall, 38 Portage Road, New Lynn. The association holds open sessions every Sunday from 3 to 9 pm. Keen to take up a racquet? Contact Jordan on 021 188 6056 for more information.
