Badminton provincials a success

Shannon LeClair

Times Reporter

 

Strathmore High School, SHS, hosted their first ASAA badminton provincials this past weekend, May 6 and 7. There were 87 schools involved, bringingtogether 240 athletes from all over the province. 

“Provincials were excellent thanks to the dedication and effort of Strathmore High School staff and students, as well as community members,” said Kenton Zandee, coordinator for the event and SHS badminton coach.

“The staff and school received numerous compliments on the organization, and running of the tournament from coaches, parents, school board members and athletes.”

There were only two local teams taking part in provincials; an intermediate doubles team from Standard and a junior girls singles player from SHS. The high school did have another team win gold at zones and have a chance to participate in provincials, but the team was unable to make it. 

Despite the fact that the tournament ran exceedingly well, it is not an event that SHS would want to host again because it falls on the Golden Hills School Division’s professional development day. 

“As a result we were graciously helped out by several former students, current SHS students, and community members who more than adequately stepped in to fill spots and help run the tournament on Friday,” said Zandee.

“SHS teachers were then able to help with the volunteering on Friday after the school day was over, and also manned the numerous positions at the four schools used at the tournament. We feel fortunate that we had such capable volunteers, and are grateful for their outstanding efforts.”

Zandee said they want to thank all of the hotels and restaurants who helped accommodate all of the athletes and visitors to Strathmore, and the individuals who helped make the tournament a success. 

Zandee said the level of badminton played was fantastic and a treat for all of the people who were able to attend.