The University of Minnesota’s Happy Badminton Club provides a welcoming space for students to enjoy badminton while connecting with others who share similar interests.
The club caters to players of all skill levels, offering an opportunity to have fun and improve their game.
Club president Runyu Zhu, a third-year student, founded the club in spring 2023 after noticing the lack of a badminton community on campus.
“I realized there were many students who enjoyed badminton, but there was no club for them to join,” Zhu said. “I wanted to create a space for them to come together and play.”
The club meets for two hours every Saturday, where students practice their skills and play matches. Zhu also mentioned that the club organizes one formal competition each year, held on campus during the spring semester, which is optional for members.
Club member and graduate student Zilun Xiang shared that a tournament is scheduled in Chicago this March, where members will compete against other universities from the Midwest.
“We aim to create an environment where experienced players can enjoy themselves, while also providing practice and training for those looking to improve,” Zhu explained.
Jackie Wang, the club’s treasurer and a third-year student, said the club is especially helpful for beginners. The club offers guidance to new players, answering questions and grouping beginners together for easier learning.
Zhu noted that the club has two coaches—he himself coaches the beginner group, while another professional player handles the advanced group. The club also offers advice to beginners on recovering from injuries.
For Xiang, the club has been a great way to unwind from the pressures of graduate school.
As members play more games together, Zhu said, they form stronger connections. “When they first play, they get to know each other. The second time, they become friends,” Zhu said. “That’s the community I hoped to create.”
Wang echoed these sentiments, expressing his gratitude for the chance to play badminton with friends and meet new people. “It’s been a great experience,” Wang said.
Zhu emphasized that club members are passionate about finding others who love badminton and sharing the joy of the sport.
“The main reason I started this club was to play badminton with my friends,” Zhu said. “We enjoy playing together, and we want to share that happiness with others.”
Related Topics
- Treesa-Gayatri and Unnati Hooda in Action – Scores, Updates
- Can Playing Badminton Reduce Belly Fat?
- How Many Players Can Play Badminton?
