Catanzaro, Italy – The provincial phase of the Youth Games badminton competition concluded Monday, March 30, 2026, at the Casalinuovo gymnasium, showcasing a growing interest in the sport among young athletes in the province of Catanzaro. The event, organized annually by the regional school office under the guidance of Professor Elena Cortese and the provincial FIBa delegation of Catanzaro with technical director Domenico Saladino, saw spirited competition from several local schools.
Four schools participated in the tournament: Casalinuovo of Catanzaro, Ic Sabatini of Borgia, Ardito Don Bosco of Lamezia Terme, and Ic Bianco Sersale-Petrona’. Matches were held in two categories – the first for middle school students in their first year, and the second for students in their second and third years – encompassing the disciplines of women’s singles, men’s singles, and mixed doubles.
The Ic Bianco Sersale-Petrona’ school proved particularly successful, dominating the competition. Viola Spadafora secured victory in the women’s singles, while Francesco Scalzi, representing the Cerva annex of the same school, won the men’s singles title. The Ardito Don Bosco of Lamezia Terme took home the gold in the mixed doubles event.
In the first category, Gioia Zipari, Davide Catizzone, and the duo of Dennis Raimondo and Carmen Mazza, all from Ic Bianco Sersale-Petrona’, emerged victorious. The competition wasn’t just about winning; it was about embodying the core values of badminton – fair play and enjoyment – as demonstrated by all the participating students.
The young athletes were supported by their physical education teachers: Roberta Chiantor (Ic Sabatini of Borgia), Patrizia Salerno and Carmine Anania (Ic Bianco Sersale-Petrona’), and Giuseppe Borrello (Ardito Don Bosco of Lamezia Terme). Their guidance helped foster the positive sporting spirit throughout the event.
The success of the provincial phase sets the stage for the regional badminton championships, scheduled to take place in Cosenza on April 28th. This progression highlights the increasing popularity of badminton within the Calabria region’s youth sports programs. For the qualifying athletes, the regional competition represents a significant step forward in their badminton journey.
Badminton, a racquet sport played using racquets to hit a shuttlecock across a net, has been steadily gaining traction in Italy, and events like these are crucial for nurturing young talent. The focus on fair play and fun, as emphasized by organizers and teachers, is a key component in attracting and retaining young players. The sport’s accessibility – requiring relatively simple equipment and adaptable playing spaces – similarly contributes to its growing appeal.
The dedication of the organizing committee, led by Professor Cortese and Domenico Saladino, was instrumental in the smooth running of the event. Their commitment to providing opportunities for young athletes to participate in competitive sports is commendable. The involvement of the regional FIBa delegation further underscores the importance of structured development pathways for badminton in the region.
The upcoming regional championships in Cosenza promise to be an exciting showcase of talent, building on the momentum generated by the successful provincial phase in Catanzaro. Fans and supporters will be eager to see which athletes will rise to the occasion and represent the province with pride. The event in Cosenza will be a key indicator of the sport’s continued growth and development within Calabria.
The spirit of sportsmanship displayed by the students, coupled with the dedication of the teachers and organizers, paints a positive picture for the future of badminton in the province of Catanzaro and beyond. The emphasis on fun and fair play ensures that these young athletes are not only developing their skills on the court but also learning valuable life lessons that will serve them well in all their endeavors.
Following the regional competition, successful athletes may have the opportunity to advance to national-level tournaments, further enhancing their competitive experience and potentially opening doors to higher levels of play. The pathway from provincial to national competition provides a clear incentive for young players to dedicate themselves to the sport and strive for excellence.
The continued support of the regional school office, the FIBa delegation, and the dedicated teachers will be vital in sustaining the growth of badminton in the region. Investing in youth sports programs not only promotes physical health and well-being but also fosters vital values such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience.
The next confirmed checkpoint for these young athletes is the regional championships in Cosenza on April 28th. Keep an eye on Archysport for updates following the competition. What are your thoughts on the growing popularity of badminton in Italy? Share your comments below!
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