Birdies fly fun and hard at drop-in

Badminton is a sport that anyone of any age can enjoy.

And for those who do, drop-in badminton is available every Tuesday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. in the new gym at Innisfail High School beginning Jan. 12.

“It's open to all ages, from 12 years and up. Adults are coming out more and more which is fantastic to see,” said Kane Williams, recreation program coordinator with the Town of Innisfail.

The drop-in badminton is a sport, noted Williams, that may appeal to many people because there is no registration required, only a small two-dollar fee to participate.

“There's a mix of people that we get out. We have a great space. It can have as many as eight courts going on (at one time),” said Williams. “It's a way for everybody to get involved.”

“You can just come in and play,” he added. “You can try it once and decide that it's not for you, or you can give it a try once and keep coming back until the end of April.”

Bob Klatt is coordinator for the program and volunteers his time to help out.

“He oversees things,” said Williams. “He's been around the sport for a while and can give people some pointers on badminton.”

Badminton can also help people stay active noted Williams, adding that people can participate individually and pair up in teams on site during the sessions.

“Drop-in badminton is a great opportunity to practise or hone your skills,” he said, adding that birdies will be available but people must bring their own rackets.

Williams said that although they have a good base group of about 30 people who participate in the drop-in badminton on a regular basis, he would like to see more adults enjoy the sport this winter.

“We are really encouraging more adults to come out too,” said Williams. “We ran drop-in badminton this fall and it was a great turnout, but we're trying to grow (the sport). It's a sport for everybody.”

For more information call Williams at the town office at 403-227-3376.

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