Oversubscribed clubs are always great to hear about and we are keen to assist in helping to expand programmes further, introducing new sessions to new players. There is however a risk when taking this leap, as new sessions require time and investment to promote and secure court bookings in a block period.
Steve Turner Head Coach at Rugby Badminton Coaching, a Badminton England affiliated club, encountered this challenge earlier this year. As a club that mainly catered for adults, he saw an opportunity to grow his programme, creating a new junior section. This sustainable vision would help secure the longevity of the club, with juniors being introduced to the game, progressing over time to become competent match players, able to compete in club nights and local league badminton.
Working with Badminton England’s Relationship Manager Alex Lane, Steve submitted a business proposal which helped to secure a £400 grant to help establish the first block of junior coaching sessions in September. The grant will allow Steve to secure court bookings for a set period and allow junior players with little or no badminton experience, the ability to trial sessions before they become regular paying players.
Alex Lane, Area Relationship Manager for Badminton England, said:
“It is great to see clubs utilising the support from Badminton England to help expand their programmes and even better to see the creation of a new junior club, with improved opportunities for young people being a key focus for Badminton England over the coming years.
Steve Turner said:
“Alex Lane from Badminton England has been great with supporting me to set up Rugby Badminton Coaching. The club have been running much needed adult beginner sessions for a year and we are now being supported further by Badminton England to launch a junior session in September.”
If you are a Badminton England coach or affiliated club looking to expand your club’s programme, reach out to your area relationship manager here now and see what help they can offer.
For clubs who are not affiliated with Badminton England, visit the membership page now to see the benefits a club membership with Badminton England brings. Club Affiliation | Badminton England
