Suffolk Badminton

Association

Badminton is the 4th most-played sport in the country. There should be opportunities for everyone to get involved in the sport, enjoy themselves, and develop their talent.  Community Badminton Networks (CBNs) are how we achieve this.

CBNs will be based upon Local Authority areas. They are not new structures, rather a method of linking the current activity that takes place within badminton to offer the best opportunities for people to play and stay within our great sport.

BADMINTON England is aiming to set up Community Badminton Networks across the Country.

The Structure: CBNs will be composed of 4 key elements:

• Clubs
• Schools
• Participation projects
• Pay and Play sessions

Clubs:  An accredited Premier Club or a network of accredited clubs will be at the centre of a Community Badminton Network and will provide coaching and competitive opportunities for adults and juniors.  

Schools:  These are where the next generation of talent is based. The link between schools and clubs is crucial in order that children are given the opportunity to play the sport within school and then have a clear route to a club in which they can continue their participation and improve their performance.

Community Badminton Networks   –   A Summary

The information below from Tim Fitches, formerly Regional Development Manager of Badminton England, is reproduced with permission.

Participation projects:  This is an area where badminton has had a great deal of success as it is a sport that appeals to a broad cross-section of the population. These projects will be set up for people and communities based on local need, attracting more people to play badminton. Examples of participation projects might include an 8-week ladies-only badminton programme, a one day Badminton Bonanza open to everyone, a youth games event etc, i.e. anything that gets people playing; after which they have the opportunity to join the Premier Club.

Pay and Play sessions:  These will offer playing opportunities for players who do not have the confidence or inclination to join a full badminton club; very much an informal pay and play session. As people grow to enjoy the game, and as they improve in standard, they may seek to join the club. In this way badminton can attract more casual players to become involved within the structured side of the sport.