Thetford Mines, Quebec, is preparing to host a significant badminton event – an elite-level tournament sanctioned by Badminton Québec – on March 14th and 15th, 2026. The competition promises to bring together the province’s top players, alongside athletes with national-level experience, for an event organizers are calling unprecedented for the region.
“This is a first for the region to have a competition of this caliber,” explained Jean Boissonneault, co-organizer of the tournament alongside Catherine Letarte. “The tournament will be sanctioned and will count towards the Canadian rankings. We will have several players in the top 20, so it will be a very high level of play.”
The tournament, part of the ABC Elite Circuit of Badminton Québec, is already attracting attention with a strong list of confirmed participants. Among the headliners are Zachary Desjardins, currently ranked 3rd in Canada, Nicolas Germain (10th nationally), Jasmine Yuexin Zhang (12th) and Selina Chen (15th). These athletes represent a significant draw for badminton enthusiasts and a testament to the growing profile of the sport in the region.
Beyond the nationally ranked competitors, the tournament will likewise showcase local talent. Mia Boissonneault, who competes for the Citadins de l’UQAM, Aly Boissonneault of the Filons de Thetford, Thomas Lehoux-Bisson (Volontaires du Cégep de Sherbrooke), Catherine Letarte (coach of the Filons), Jean Boissonneault (coach of the Filons and Montagnards), Mathis Vuillaume (Rouge et Or de l’Université Laval), Sammi Pan (Redbirds de McGill), and Xavier Lavoie (Filons de Thetford) are all expected to participate. This local representation adds another layer of excitement for fans in the Thetford Mines area.
Matches will be held on the courts at both Cégep de Thetford and Polyvalente de Thetford. Boissonneault noted that securing the event was a long-term goal, finally realized thanks to improved facilities and a collaborative effort between local schools. “We’ve been trying to attract an event of this caliber for a long time. We are starting to have good facilities, so Badminton Québec is now interested in us. The collaboration between the schools was also critical to build this possible,” he said.
Perhaps most appealing to local residents, admission to the tournament is free. The schedule includes matches on Saturday, March 14th, from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, and Sunday, March 15th, from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM. The finals are scheduled for 12:30 PM on Sunday, taking place across both school venues. This accessibility aims to encourage broad community engagement with the sport.
The tournament isn’t just about elite competition; it’s also about investing in the future of badminton in Thetford Mines. All proceeds generated from the event will be reinvested into the development of local badminton programs, specifically benefiting the Montagnards program at Polyvalente de Thetford Mines and the Filons program at Cégep de Thetford. This commitment to grassroots development underscores the long-term vision of the organizers.
Organizers are also seeking volunteers to help ensure the smooth running of the tournament. Individuals interested in contributing their time are encouraged to contact Jean Boissonneault or Catherine Letarte directly. Volunteer opportunities provide a chance to be part of a significant sporting event and support the growth of badminton in the community.
This tournament marks a turning point for badminton in Thetford Mines, elevating the region’s profile within the Canadian sporting landscape. The combination of elite competition, local talent, and community involvement promises a memorable weekend for players and spectators alike. The event’s success could pave the way for future high-level badminton tournaments in the region, further solidifying Thetford Mines as a destination for the sport.
The organizers are hoping for a strong turnout from the community, eager to showcase the region’s enthusiasm for badminton. With free admission and a high level of competition, the tournament offers a unique opportunity for fans to experience the excitement of the sport firsthand.
Following the tournament, the focus will shift to the continued development of badminton programs at the local level, ensuring a lasting legacy from this landmark event. The reinvestment of proceeds into the Montagnards and Filons programs will provide valuable resources for aspiring young players, fostering the next generation of badminton talent in Thetford Mines.
The next step for organizers will be finalizing volunteer schedules and coordinating logistics for the weekend. Updates and further information will be available through Badminton Québec’s official channels.
What are your thoughts on the growing popularity of badminton in Canada? Share your comments below and let us know if you plan to attend the tournament in Thetford Mines!
