Catanzaro, Italy – Badminton is gaining traction with a new generation of athletes, as evidenced by the successful conclusion of the provincial phase of the youth sports games held Monday, March 30, 2026, at the Casalinuovo gymnasium in Catanzaro. The event showcased promising talent from across the province, setting the stage for the regional championships next month.
The annual competition was organized by the regional school office, led by Professor Elena Cortese, and the provincial FIBa delegation of Catanzaro, with technical direction from Domenico Saladino. Four schools participated: Casalinuovo of Catanzaro, Ic Sabatini of Borgia, Ardito Don Bosco of Lamezia Terme, and Ic Bianco Sersale-Petrona’. Matches were held in two age categories – first-year middle school students (1a categoria) and second and third-year middle school students (2a categoria) – across three disciplines: women’s singles, men’s singles, and mixed doubles.
The competition was fierce, with Ic Bianco Sersale-Petrona’ dominating the younger age group. Viola Spadafora secured victory in the women’s singles, while Francesco Scalzi, from the Cerva annex of Ic Bianco Sersale-Petrona’, won the men’s singles title. Ardito Don Bosco of Lamezia Terme took home the gold in the mixed doubles category. In the older age group, Gioia Zipari, Davide Catizzone, and the duo of Dennis Raimondo and Carmen Mazza, all representing Ic Bianco Sersale-Petrona’, emerged victorious.
The event wasn’t just about winning; it was about fostering sportsmanship. The young athletes, accompanied by physical education teachers Roberta Chiantor (Borgia), Patrizia Salerno and Carmine Anania (Sersale-Petrona’), and Giuseppe Borrello (Lamezia), demonstrated the core values of badminton: fair play and enjoyment. This emphasis on character development alongside athletic skill is a hallmark of the youth sports games.
For the qualifying athletes, the focus now shifts to the regional badminton championships, scheduled to take place in Cosenza on April 28, 2026. This next stage of the competition promises to be even more challenging, as the best young badminton players from across the region vie for a spot in the national championships. The regional event will build on the momentum generated by the successful provincial phase, further promoting the sport among young people in Calabria.
The success of the Catanzaro provincial championships highlights the growing popularity of badminton in Italian schools. The sport’s accessibility, requiring minimal equipment and space, makes it an ideal activity for students of all ages and abilities. The dedication of the organizers, teachers, and athletes involved is a testament to the power of sport to inspire and unite communities.
The Ardito Don Bosco of Lamezia Terme’s victory in the mixed doubles is particularly noteworthy, showcasing the school’s commitment to developing well-rounded athletes. Their success, along with the strong performances from Ic Bianco Sersale-Petrona’, demonstrates the depth of talent emerging from schools across the province.
Professor Elena Cortese and Domenico Saladino’s leadership were instrumental in ensuring the smooth running of the event. Their commitment to providing opportunities for young athletes to compete and develop their skills is commendable. The organization of these games provides a valuable platform for students to showcase their talents and experience the thrill of competition in a supportive and encouraging environment.
As the athletes prepare for the regional championships, they carry with them the lessons learned and the friendships forged during the provincial phase. The spirit of fair play and sportsmanship will undoubtedly be on display in Cosenza, as these young athletes continue to pursue their passion for badminton. The future of badminton in Calabria looks bright, thanks to the dedication of these young players and the support of their schools and communities.
The next step for these young athletes is the regional championships in Cosenza on April 28th. Keep an eye on Archysport for updates and results from that event. We’ll be following the progress of these promising players as they continue their badminton journey.
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