Great Southern Badminton Association hosting annual tournament featuring players from around WA

The Great Southern Badminton Association is hosting its annual tournament this weekend at the Albany Leisure and Aquatic Centre.

There will be eight teams of eight players in a round robin format with play commencing at 9am until 4pm on Saturday and action on Sunday will be held between 9am-4pm.

The change of venue has allowed the association to have increased court space as well as greater participant numbers with 64 players registered to date.

Most participants are from regional WA including Bunbury, Esperance, Nyabing, Denmark and Manjimup.

“We were lucky enough to receive a grant from the Department of Local Government, Sport and Local Industries,” GSBA chairperson Michelle Watson said.

“Active Regional Communities Grants Program will allow us to deliver this tournament, hold another tournament for Great Southern players and to start a junior program in conjunction with Badminton WA and local schools.

“We are hoping to increase tournament numbers again next year and get more people to experience badminton.

“It has become more popular since the formation of the association with some nights attracting up to 30 players, with only four courts to play on.

“Unfortunately we are struggling to find a regular, available venue that can cater for our growth.

“It’s really pleasing to see so many local representatives with 17 registered this year.”

Spectators are encouraged and free entry is available.