As one of the area’s longest-established sports clubs, Oswestry Badminton Club has a proud history and passionate membership and are looking for new players to grab their rackets and come down for some rallies.

Meeting every Monday night at Oswestry Leisure Centre (8pm-10pm), the club hosts a lively and inclusive evening of games. Where everyone gets to play with a range of partners, helping to mix abilities and create a fun yet competitive atmosphere.

Whether you’re wanting to improve your technique or get back into the sport after a break, the pace is lively, the games competitive, and the focus is firmly on enjoyment and development – Oswestry Badminton is the place.

Oswestry Badminton Club are pleased to be recently awarded grants from Oswestry Sports Forum and Cash4clubs to help with running costs and develop the sport into the wider community.

“We have players of Indian and Chinese heritage where badminton is ranked highly as a sport. Through their love of the sport, it has been an opportunity to connect, socialise and make new friends. Through badminton there are a number that have formed friendships and book courts and play regularly outside of our Monday session.”

Craig Marston, long-time member and captain of Oswestry’s Men’s A Team, has been playing badminton for over 30 years. Passionate about the sport and its benefits, he’s clear about what makes it so special.

“Pickleball and padel may be trendy right now, but badminton remains the fastest racket sport out there with smashes reaching speeds of 350mph! Compare that to the fastest tennis serve which tops out at half the speed at 163mph.

“Badminton is quick, skilful, and good exercise. At Oswestry Badminton Club, we have a strong membership of all levels and ages. We’re a friendly group, and we want to see new players joining us.”

So, whether you’ve played in the past or currently play recreationally, you’ll find a warm welcome and a good game waiting for you here,” Craig adds. “Our club night is 2 hours long; everyone gets plenty of court time and there is no time for sitting out and having a rest.”

Competitive players will also find plenty to enjoy as the only local club to field teams in the Shropshire County badminton league, offering members the chance to take their game to the next level. League players regularly support and challenge  developing players, offering encouragement and advice to help improve their performance.

One such example is Alex, who joined the club a year ago after relocating to the area. “I started to play badminton at a social level after being introduced to the sport by my Grandad but since joining Oswestry Badminton club my game has really developed thanks to the help of other members,” he says. “I love the game and now I am playing for a team which is another level.”

Oswestry Badminton Club is particularly looking for more ladies to join to form a ladies team, playing social matches against other clubs with the goal of entering a team in the league. The club is building momentum with visitors welcome at any time. You just need to bring a racket, suitable footwear and a big bottle of water to rehydrate.

Above all, Oswestry Badminton Club prides itself on being both friendly and competitive. It’s a club where social sport meets serious skill.

“Badminton is such a great sport, it’s fast, fun, and brilliant exercise,” says Craig.

“Whether you’re returning to the sport, looking to sharpen your skills, or just want a great way to stay active and social, Oswestry Badminton Club is the perfect place to play. We’d love to see some new faces on court.”

If you’re interested in joining or would like to visit one evening to try it out, get in touch with the club by emailing oswestrybadders@gmail.com