A badminton club, basking in the glory of Olympic star Marcus Ellis, is hoping to net new female members.
Milnsbridge-based Phoenix Club, which plays in the Huddersfield and District Badminton League, has about 20 members – but only three females.
Club secretary Martin Tidbury said: “I know this sounds a little sexist but we really do need more women to support a mixed team.”
Mr Tidbury is looking for a budding Marcus Ellis to boost the success of the club which is currently in third place in division three in the Huddersfield League. Twenty-six-year-old Marcus, of Bolster Moor, won a bronze medal at the Rio Olympics with men’s doubles partner Chris Langridge.
“Marcus has raised the profile of badminton generally, and we are hoping some of his success might rub off on the club and bring a few new members through the door,” said Mr Tidbury.
The club – one of the longest established in Huddersfield – meets at The Elms sports centre in New Street, Milnsbridge, where there are three badminton courts. It runs every Tuesday night from 7pm. “We play until everybody is fed up, which is usually about 9.30pm,” he added.
“Badminton is a good sport for fitness, and it is relatively inexpensive compared with some. All you need is a racket and a pair of trainers,” said Mr Tidbury.
“It is also a very social sport. It is a good way to meet new people. I have played for 30 years and have met life-long friends through badminton.”
He said that funnily enough he started playing when he responded to a story in the Examiner, and he has played literally every week since then apart from when he has been away on holidays.
Beginners are welcome. “It doesn’t matter too much about experience. It is quite easy to learn the rules, and generally we play doubles so newcomers will be on a court with someone who understands the game and can give a bit of coaching along the way.”
Anyone who wants to join the Phoenix Club – particularly females – can either turn up on a Tuesday night or visit the website www.phoenixbadminton.net
