Lamezia Terme, Italy – A spirit of inclusivity and athletic competition filled the air in Calabria this past weekend as the city successfully hosted a stage of the national Baddy Cup, a tournament promoted by the Italian Badminton Federation (FIBa). The event, held on Saturday, March 28th, showcased not only the skill of badminton players but also a powerful commitment to accessibility and community engagement.
A Collaborative Effort: “Vola con Noi” Project Takes Flight
The Baddy Cup in Lamezia Terme wasn’t simply a sporting event; it was a culmination of the “Vola con Noi” (Fly With Us) national project. This initiative brought together the IC Ardito-Don Bosco school, FIBa, Tycke Sport ESD, and Sport e Salute, creating a unique synergy that extended beyond the badminton court. The collaboration fostered an atmosphere of enthusiastic support, with families, students, and teachers alike cheering on the athletes.
The success of the event hinged on the dedication of a team of professionals and volunteers. Domenico Lachimea, Technical Director of Lucky Friends and Competition Director, oversaw the technical aspects of the tournament. Orlando Vescio, a Maestro of Mousikè APS, curated the artistic direction, adding a creative flair to the proceedings. Pasquale Cimino, President of Tycke Sport and ESD Tutor, provided guidance, while Giovanna Campisano, a Ludic Sports Coach, was a cornerstone of the volunteer effort. Pasqualino Raso, a Federal Technical Coach and FIBa project manager, was responsible for the SuperAbilities and Sport for Cohesion projects (including initiatives within juvenile prisons from 2024-2026).
“We Play Together”: Inclusion at the Heart of the Competition
What truly set this Baddy Cup apart was its emphasis on inclusion. The event wasn’t about simply integrating athletes with disabilities; it was about creating a space where everyone could “play together,” as organizers emphasized. Athletes of diverse nationalities and abilities competed side-by-side, united by their shared passion for badminton. This commitment was particularly evident in the participation of athletes from Lucky Friends and Tycke Sport.
The dedication of athletes traveling to compete was remarkable. Players from Crotone, for example, made the journey by train twice a week, traveling with their racquets to participate in training and be part of the Lamezia community. This illustrates the strong bonds formed through the project and the athletes’ commitment to the sport.
“We don’t do integration, we play together with anyone who loves badminton. We are a community without borders that will not stop here,” a representative from the organizing committee stated, encapsulating the ethos of the event.
Competition and Champions Crowned
The Baddy Cup saw fierce competition across several categories. Currently, the movement boasts 82 active athletes, a testament to the growing popularity of badminton in the region. The winners included:
- Parabadminton (Lucky Friends ASD): Federico Fazio
- Agonistic Athletes (Tycke Sport): Shahriar Raman
- Women’s Singles (IC Ardito-Don Bosco): Melissa De Sensi
- Men’s Singles (IC Ardito-Don Bosco): Pietro Perri
Beyond the Court: Social Commitment and Future Horizons
Tycke Sport’s commitment extends beyond competitive play. The organization is actively involved in social programs, including activities at the IPM (Istituto Penale Minorile) of Catanzaro, a juvenile detention center, where a new “Sport for Cohesion” event is planned. The recently awarded “SuperAbilities” project, funded by the Regione Calabria, will further strengthen the connection between sport and overcoming barriers to participation.
The success of the Baddy Cup in Lamezia Terme underscores the power of sport to unite communities and promote inclusivity. The collaborative spirit between Tycke Sport APD/ESD and Lucky Friends ASD, along with the support of the school administration, teachers, and families, created a memorable event for all involved. Organizers extended a special commendation to the athletes of Don Bosco, emphasizing that defeat is not a limitation but a stepping stone for growth.
Today, badminton in Lamezia, Catanzaro, and Crotone is synonymous with competence and heart, thanks to the dedication of Tycke Sport ESD, which has been serving the sport since 2014.
The next step for Tycke Sport and Lucky Friends will be the continuation of their social programs and the preparation for future events, further solidifying their commitment to making badminton accessible to all. Fans can follow updates on their activities through their respective social media channels and official websites.
