Badminton Fever Grips Saint-Dié-des-Vosges for the 13th Déo’Bad Tournament
Saint-Dié-des-Vosges is buzzing with the energy of shuttlecocks and racquets this weekend as the city hosts the 13th annual Déo’Bad badminton tournament. From January 4th to 5th, the Palais Omnisports Joseph-Claudel will be transformed into a badminton haven, welcoming 350 athletes from across the Grand Est and Nord regions.
Organized by the local badminton club, lead by President Victor Surmely, this year’s Déo’Bad showcases a diverse range of talent, featuring players ranked from N2 to NC – a level that includes some of the top 200 badminton players in France. Eleven courts will be in action, hosting a total of 470 matches throughout the weekend. Saturday will see fierce competition in singles and mixed doubles, while Sunday will be dedicated to doubles matches.
This surge in badminton enthusiasm reflects a broader trend in the Grand Est region. As of November 28th, 2024, the region boasts a record-breaking 17,004 licensed badminton players, a notable increase from the 16,005 recorded on June 23rd, 2023. This resurgence demonstrates the sport’s resilience and growing popularity, effectively leaving the impact of the pandemic behind.
Déo’Bad tournament: A Badminton Boom in the Grand Est?
Welcome back to ‘On The Court’, sports fans!
Today we have the privilege of speaking with former French national badminton champion, Claire de la Fontaine, about the electrifying 13th annual Déo’Bad tournament taking place in Saint-Dié-des-Vosges. Claire, welcome to the show!
Claire: Thanks for having me!
It’s great to see the Déo’Bad tournament thriving after 13 years. The Palais Omnisports Joseph-Claudel must be buzzing with excitement.
Claire: Absolutely! The energy there is astonishing. It’s inspiring to see 350 athletes from the Grand Est and Nord regions come together to compete. Seeing eleven courts filled with matches is a testament to the passion for badminton in this area.
You mention the Grand Est region specifically. The article mentioned a record number of licensed badminton players – nearly 17,000 – a real jump compared to last year. Do you think this signals a deeper trend of resurgence for badminton in France, or is it localized to the Grand Est?
Claire: It’s definitely promising. I think this surge in participation, especially post-pandemic, is something we’re seeing across France, not just in the Grand Est. Badminton is accessible,enjoyable,and great exercise – it’s no surprise people are flocking back to the courts!
Moderator: It’s wonderful to hear! Now,the tournament features players ranked from N2 to NC,which means we have some serious talent competing. How significant are tournaments like Déo’Bad for developing young players and nurturing future champions?
Claire: Tournaments like this are absolutely crucial. They provide a platform for players to test their skills, gain experience, and learn from each other. Young players can see what it takes to compete at a higher level, and even seasoned professionals can refine their game and get crucial match practice.
Moderator: Exactly. And the Déo’Bad offers a diverse range of competition with singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. Do you see value in this kind of variety for players’ advancement?
Claire: It absolutely encourages versatility and strategy. Playing diffrent formats helps players develop a well-rounded skillset. You learn to adapt to different partners, opponents, and court dynamics. It’s a fantastic chance for growth.
Moderator: I agree. Claire, thank you so much for your insights.
Claire: my pleasure!
So, badminton fans, what are your thoughts? Do you see this badminton boom continuing? Is the Déo’Bad tournament a harbinger of bigger things to come for French badminton? Let us know in the comments below!
