West Mercia Badminton Club | News & Events

West Mercia Badminton Club Announces Launch of New Junior Club

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 19:50:10 GMT

West Mercia Badminton Club is thrilled to announce the launch of its newest initiative aimed at fostering young talent and promoting the sport of badminton within the community. Our new Junior Club promises to provide a fun and engaging platform for children to develop their skills and passion for the game.

The decision to launch the Junior Club comes as part of West Mercia Badminton Club's ongoing commitment to promoting health and well-being among young people while nurturing talent at the grassroots level. With a rich history of promoting badminton excellence in Worcestershire, the club aims to inspire the next generation of players to excel both on and off the court.

Our Junior Club will cater to children of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced players, providing a supportive and inclusive environment for growth and development. Under the guidance of experienced coaches, participants will have the opportunity to learn new techniques, improve their game, and form lasting friendships with fellow enthusiasts.

"We are excited to launch our new Junior Club and provide young players with the opportunity to experience the joys of badminton," said Steve Genever, County & Club Head Coach. "Our goal is to create a welcoming and supportive environment where children can develop their skills, build confidence, and most importantly, have fun."

The Junior Club will offer regular coaching sessions, practice matches, and opportunities to participate in any local and regional tournaments, allowing young players to put their skills to the test in a competitive setting.

To ensure the success of the Junior Club, West Mercia Badminton Club has secured a dedicated venue equipped with state-of-the-art facilities in Worcester to accommodate the needs of young players. The club has also assembled a team of qualified coaches who are passionate about sharing their expertise and love for the sport with the next generation.

Parents and guardians interested in enrolling their children are encouraged to contact Steve Genever at stevengenever@hotmail.co.uk for more information.

Steve added "We believe that the launch of our Junior Club marks the beginning of an exciting journey for young badminton enthusiasts in Worcestershire. We look forward to welcoming children of all ages and abilities and helping them discover the joys of the sport."

**Should any local companies wish to explore sponsorship opportunities for our Junior Club please email Dave Timms, West Mercia Badminton Club Secretary at secretary@wmbc.uk**

Interested in joining WMBC?

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 11:45:07 GMT

Are you a skilled player seeking a friendly, competitive, and successful badminton club to call home? West Mercia Badminton Club is extending an invitation to players of a high standard to join us for a ‘taster session’ on Wednesday evenings.

Why Choose West Mercia Badminton Club?

**High Standards:** We are seeking players of a good standard who share our passion for the game. Challenge yourself on the court alongside like-minded individuals dedicated to excellence.

**Friendly Competition:** While our standards are high, our atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. Enjoy competitive matches that push your limits while building camaraderie with fellow players.

**Proven Success:** West Mercia Badminton Club has a track record of success in the Worcestershire leagues. Join a club that knows how to win and aims for success at every level.

**Wednesday Taster Sessions:** Come and experience our club firsthand by attending our taster sessions on Wednesday evenings. Showcase your skills on the court, meet our members, and get a feel for the dynamic environment.

**Membership Opportunities:** If you impress us during your taster session (maximum of 3), we'll extend an invitation for you to become a valued member of West Mercia Badminton Club. Be part of a community that is passionate about the sport and dedicated to improvement.

**Visit Us on a Wednesday:**
Time: 7.30pm – 10.30pm
Location: West Mercia Constabulary Police Headquarters, Hindlip Hall, Hindlip Park, Worcester, WR3 8SP

Link: Find Us | West Mercia Badminton Club (wmbc.uk)
Cost: £6.00 per session

For more details or to confirm your interest in attending, please email our Club Secretary at secretary@wmbc.uk

Don't miss this opportunity to join a club that combines high standards, friendly competition, and a legacy of success. Elevate your badminton journey with West Mercia Badminton Club!

Christmas Message from WMBC Committee

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 10:45:48 GMT

As the year draws to a close, we, the West Mercia Badminton Club committee, want to take a moment to extend our warmest wishes to each and every one of our members. May this festive season bring you joy, laughter, and cherished moments with your loved ones.

Reflecting on the past year, we appreciate the dedication and enthusiasm you have brought to the club, making it a vibrant and supportive community for badminton enthusiasts. It's been a year filled with exciting matches, new friendships, and shared passion for the sport.

As we approach Christmas, may the holiday spirit surround you, and may the New Year bring fresh opportunities for growth and success both on and off the badminton court. We look forward to another year of smashing rallies, fun tournaments, and the camaraderie that defines our club.

Thank you for being an integral part of West Mercia Badminton Club. Here's to a fabulous Christmas and a fantastic New Year!

Warm regards,

WMBC Committee

A Festive Feast: West Mercia Badminton Club's Christmas Celebration at Yeliz Blossom Room Turkish Grill Restaurant

Sat, 09 Dec 2023 12:45:37 GMT

West Mercia Badminton Club's Christmas Celebration at Yeliz Blossom Room Turkish Grill Restaurant

'Tis the season for joy, laughter, and, of course, delicious meals shared in good company. On the chilly evening of December 9th, 2023, members of the West Mercia Badminton Club gathered to celebrate their Christmas meal at the enchanting Yeliz Blossom Room Turkish Grill Restaurant in Worcester.

The festive spirit was palpable as players swapped their rackets for festive attire, embracing the holiday cheer. The Yeliz, known for its warm ambiance and exquisite Turkish cuisine, provided the perfect backdrop for this special occasion.

As members and their guests entered the restaurant, they were greeted by the tantalizing aroma of traditional Turkish dishes and the welcoming smiles of the staff. The restaurant had been adorned with festive decorations, creating an atmosphere of merriment and celebration.

The evening commenced with a thanks to Silviya for organising the event and the club's camaraderie was on full display, transcending the boundaries of sportsmanship to genuine friendship.

The menu offered a delectable array of Turkish delights, from kebabs to mouthwatering mezes. Each dish was a testament to the culinary expertise of the Yeliz Blossom Room Turkish Grill Restaurant, leaving everyone's taste buds in awe. The festive atmosphere was heightened as members savoured the rich flavours and some even shared their favourites around the table.

The highlight of the evening was, undoubtedly, the celebration on Long Tran’s birthday (even though it’s not until next March!). The singing of “Happy Birthday to you” rang out through the restaurant with other diners also taking part which brought smiles and laughter, reinforcing the sense of community within the West Mercia Badminton Club. The Yeliz Blossom Room's staff also joined in the celebration, ensuring that every detail of the night was nothing short of perfection.

The West Mercia Badminton Club's Christmas meal at the Yeliz Blossom Room Turkish Grill Restaurant was more than just a culinary experience; it was a celebration of friendship, unity, and the joy that comes from coming together during the most wonderful time of the year. As everyone stepped out into the cold December night, the players were already looking forward to the challenges and victories that the remaining badminton season would bring, strengthened by the bonds formed over shared laughter and delightful Turkish cuisine.

2023 WMBC Mixed Tournament

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 11:57:32 GMT

The 2023 West Mercia Badminton Club Mixed Tournament was held on the 20th September 2023

The event was a massive success with some great games and as ever, a fantastic atmosphere

Our congratulations go to the 2023 winners, Luke Robinson and Nikki Albutt

A fantastic 2022/23 season for WMBC!

Fri, 19 May 2023 14:26:29 GMT

A massive congratulations to all of our 7 teams that competed in the Worcestershire Badminton league during the 2022/23 season

With determination and sheer hard work we won the Veterans Division 1, Mixed Division 1 and Combined Division 1 titles and were Runners Up in the Mens Division 1 and Combined Division 1 (2nd team) leagues

A huge THANK YOU to all members that played for all our teams and we're certainly looking forward to lifting those trophies at the Worcestershire Badminton Association AGM later on this year

WMBC Update - Return To Play

Sun, 15 Aug 2021 20:19:47 GMT

Although the Government announced that 19th July would see all legal restrictions on social contact being removed, West Mercia Badminton Club has been unable to resume club nights due to the sports hall at Hindlip remaining closed.

Well, at long last we have some good news!

1. On Friday 3rd September club nights will resume again from 7.30pm until 10.30pm. They will then continue, as before, every Wednesday and Friday.

2. Club nights will continue to be held in the sports hall at West Mercia Constabulary Police Headquarters, Hindlip Hall.

3. It is the Committee's intention that the 2021/22 membership fees will remain the same as 2019/20 and will be prorated due to the shorter playing year - this will be discussed at our EGM and subsequently confirmed if agreed.

4. We will resume the peg board system on club nights.

WMBC Update 2nd December 2020

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 11:10:57 GMT

Due to our County being put into Tier 2 after lockdown finishes on 2nd December and the extra restrictions being imposed as per the latest guidance from Badminton England, we feel that it wouldn't be viable or safe to start our club night sessions again until these restrictions are lifted

Therefore we will review the situation when it changes and let you know accordingly.

In the meantime please keep safe

National Lock Down from 5th November 2020

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 14:03:33 GMT

Due to the temporary closure of leisure facilities in England as part of national month long lock down, Droitwich Leisure Centre will close at normal closing time on Wednesday 4th November 2020 for a minimum of 4 weeks

This therefore means that we will have to suspend our current Wednesday club nights with the final one taking place this Wednesday (4th November) until further notice

Once we have any further updates we will of course notify you

Keep safe and we look forward to seeing you all again in the near future

Coronavirus Update 16 October 2020

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 15:34:03 GMT

Badminton England have today issued new guidelines around the updated COVID-19 local restrictions

As our area falls in to 'Tier 1 - medium' our reinstated Wednesday club night in Droitwich will remain unaffected and will continue as normal

Should there be any further updates we will, of course, let you know

Return of Club Night

Sat, 10 Oct 2020 12:18:45 GMT

Wednesday 7th October saw the return of WMBC members coming together for our first club night since the Coronavirus pandemic led to the suspension of club nights back in March of this year

Whilst we have been unable to play at our normal venue - Hindlip Hall, we have been able to secure an 8 week block booking at Droitwich Leisure Centre for 2 courts on a Wednesday evening between 8pm - 10pm

Our first evening saw 12 members participate with us keeping the same 6 players to the same court for the 2 hour session (as per the Government and Badminton England guidelines)

It's fair to say that a good time was had by all even if there were a few 'creaky bones' the following day

If you are interested in participating on a Wednesday, please go to https://www.wmbc.uk/coronavirus-update-october-2020 where you will find all details

Coronavirus Update 05 October 2020

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 20:16:15 GMT

On Saturday 26th September the WMBC committee held an Extraordinary General Meeting with the view to getting our members playing again.

We still cannot access our hall at Hindlip, so we have decided to temporarily relocate to Droitwich Leisure Centre on Wednesday's between 8 - 10pm, starting Wednesday 7th October. As there will be costs associated with this option, due to the cost of shuttles and court hire, we will be charging members £5 each for the 2 hour session - p ayment can be made either by bank transfer into the club account or cash on the night.

We will only be allowed to have a maximum of 6 players per court which will operate as a "bubble" and players will not be able to change courts during the evening.

We have 2 courts booked currently but depending on demand there is potential to book 3 courts.

Players will need to register their interest to ensure spaces are filled appropriately. If you register your interest and commit to playing, however later do not turn up and your space cannot be filled by another player, you will have to pay £4 - this is to cover the court hire cost.

We will have to abide by the COVID -19 guidance and a Risk Assessment has been completed and is available on reques. All players will need to review the Risk Assessment prior to attending and will be expected to follow throughout the sessions. At the leisure centre there is one way in and another way out to avoid close contact with staff and members of the public. All players will be expected to follow the COVID-19 protocol in place at the leisure centre,

If we have over 12 members wanting to play in a week we will try and book an additional court. However, if this is not possible, we will develop a rota system to ensure fair access to practice sessions.

How do I register my interest in playing?

· On a weekly basis email secretary@wmbc.uk by 18:00hrs on the Sunday before club night on the Wednesday to register your interest in playing

· An email will then be sent back to you by 18:00hrs on the Tuesday confirming whether your request has been accepted or advising you that you will be a priority player for that Wednesday

· The email will either read:

Here is confirmation that your place has been allocated to play at the WMBC Club night on (date)

Due to demand we have not been able to allocate you a place at the WMBC Club night on (date). You will automatically take priority to play next Wednesday (date) so please confirm to secretary@wmbc.uk asap whether or not that you wish to play on that date

Payment will either be taken on the evening or can be paid by members via bank transfer. Should you wish to make payment by bank transfer please ensure that you put your name and date in to the reference field so that we know who has paid – for example M.FRANCIS 7 OCT

Bank account details

Sort Code: 30- 99-90

Account No: 02114335

Bank: Lloyds

Obviously, this is all new to us so may need ‘tweaking’ at some point - we would therefore ask that you to be patient with us until we have established the new ‘norm’

The address details and map for Droitwich Leisure Centre can be found at https://www.riversfitness.co.uk/droitwich-spa/contact/

Should you have any questions please do not hesitate to email us at secretary@wmbc.uk

Looking forward to seeing you all over the coming weeks

Kind regards

WMBC Committee

Coronavirus Update 16 Mar 2020

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 22:56:36 GMT

Coronavirus - update 16th March 2020

As from immediate effect until further notice we are suspending club nights due to the Coronavirus situation

Your committee feels that we have to take this action for the safety of all

We will keep you updated with further information and any changes at our club and of course when we feel it's safe to commence playing again

Kind regards to you all

Martin Francis - Chairman

Charity Walk - Sunday 8th December 2019

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 18:46:24 GMT

Charity Walk - Sunday 8th December 2019

Pete Humby organised another walk for charity on Sunday 8th December leaving from Droitwich Sports & Leisure Centre going to Salwarpe Church and back.

Ages of the walkers ranged from 2 - 86 years old and the club generously agreed to add £2.00 per bird species identified on the walk towards our given charity - Acorns Children's Hospice.

We ended up raising £78.00 and the club would like everyone who took part and helped raise money towards such a deserving cause

For more information about Acorns Children's Hospice please go to https://www.acorns.org.uk/about-acorns/

Pete is planning another charity walk in March 2020 and everyone's participation and support would be greatly appreciated

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2019 WMBC Mixed Tournament

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 16:29:06 GMT

2019 Mixed Tournament

Our annual club mixed tournament will be taking place on Wed 4th September starting at 7.30pm prompt.

If club members would like to take part please let Martin know

Club ramble in aid of St. Richards Hospice

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 23:00:00 GMT

We had another one of Pete Humby’s sponsored charity walks, in aid of St Richard’s Hospice today, April 12th, 2019.

Pictures taken during the walk of a couple of West Mercia club members and friends, the 3 - 4 hour, 8 mile walked turned into a 5 - 6 hour, 10 mile walk! Becks paid for the coffees in the Dodford Arms.

Club ramble in aid of Children In Need

Sun, 07 Oct 2018 23:00:00 GMT

On Sunday 7th October, a few club members, lead by Pete Humby, embarked on a Charity walk in aid of Children in Need.

The walk around Ombersley and Holt Fleet raised the brilliant sum of £122... a big thank you and well done to all the club members and families (and dog) that took part!!

2018 WMBC Mixed Tournament

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 23:00:00 GMT

The 2018 West Mercia Badminton Club Mixed Tournament was held on the 5th September 2018.

The winners were Julie Venn & Huw Pritchard, shown here being presented the trophy by Chairman, Martin Francis.

2017 WMBC Mixed Tournament

Tue, 05 Sep 2017 23:00:00 GMT

The 2017 West Mercia Badminton Club Mixed Tournament was held on the 6th September 2017.

The winners were Steve Genever & Nikki Clay

2017 WMBC End of Season Mixed Tournament

Tue, 11 Apr 2017 23:00:00 GMT

The 2017 West Mercia Badminton Club End of season Mixed Tournament was held on 12th April, 2017.

The winners were Julie Venn & Grant Weir

2016 WMBC Mixed Tournament

Tue, 13 Sep 2016 23:00:00 GMT

The 2016 West Mercia Badminton Club Tournament was held on 13th September, 2016.

The winners were Vicky Weir & Grant Weir