By Ashley Lee Shi Hui (20S03N) and Gee Qi Hao (20S07B)
The fastest racket sport in the world. There’s nothing like engaging in an intense rally, chasing the shuttlecock from corner to corner… If this sounds like something for you, read on!
Raffles Badminton is a CCA with a long history and tradition, and has been consistently performing well in the ‘A’ Division National School Games. In 2019, Raffles Badminton retained the ‘A’ Division Girls’ title for the 4th year in a row, while the Boys’ team attained 2nd runners-up despite fighting hard on the court, narrowly missing out on a place in the finals. Although one of our main goals for 2020 would be to get the championship title for both the Girls’ and Boys’ teams, it is our sincere hope that the team will grow and persevere together despite any challenges that may lie in the road ahead.
Our batch is a tightly-knitted group consisting of 12 players (6 boys and 6 girls), and thus you can expect to see an extremely bonded and supportive team, should you decide to join the Raffles Badminton family. We train on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-8pm at the Indoor Sports Hall (ISH, Y5-6 Campus) and Fridays from 4-7pm at the Albert Hong Hall (AHH, Y1-4 Campus).
We are trained by 2 extremely qualified and supportive coaches, Coach Ronald and Coach Aman (in charge of singles and doubles respectively) who dedicate their time to patiently guide us and teach us how to improve our skills and maximise our potential. Our trainings, comprising drills, gameplay and physical training, are balanced and train us in different areas to keep us at optimal condition in preparation for competitions.
Our season usually starts in April and ends in May. With season lasting for close to a month, it is crucial that we have a support system in school to ensure that we are coping. Fortunately, we have extremely understanding tutors and teachers-in-charge, Mr Wong and Ms Chew, who give their all to take care of our welfare and give us the help we need. Additionally, the team provides a supportive and caring environment, with every member willing to contribute their effort and help for the benefit of the team members.
Most of us have been playing badminton for about a decade, and badminton is something that has become second nature to us. It is no longer simply recreation or a leisure activity. It is our passion and a sport we love. Joining Raffles Badminton no doubt requires you to have a high skill level. If you think you are up for the rigour of this CCA and have the skills, agility and determination to join, do come down for our selection trials. Raffles Badminton looks forward to receiving new players into our family!
