GIVE, Denmark – The Vestjysk Bank Arena in Give Idrætscenter buzzed with activity on Saturday, March 21, 2026, as the annual Give-Egnens (GEM) badminton championships concluded. Seven clubs and 59 players competed in the tournament, a cornerstone of the local badminton calendar, showcasing both established talent and a growing enthusiasm for the sport.
Traditionally known as the “kommunemesterskaberne” (municipal championships) before the 2007 municipal mergers, the event has adapted to its new name while maintaining its core focus: competition amongst clubs from the former Give municipality. Organizers have recently expanded participation, inviting clubs from outside the original boundaries to foster greater competition and engagement.
The tournament, hosted by Give Badmintonklub, featured 100 matches across youth and senior divisions. This year’s participating clubs included Give Badmintonklub, Øster Nykirke IF Badmintonklub, Grønbjerg/Langelund IF Badmintonklub, Gadbjerg Badmintonklub, Thyregod Badmintonklub, Børkop Badmintonklub, and Billund Badmintonklub.
The GEM championships serve as a culmination of the regular season’s training matches, which rotate between venues in Grønbjerg/Langelund, Øster Nykirke, and Thyregod. Veteran player Ib Jessing of Grønbjerg oversees the scheduling and aims to ensure competitive and balanced matches for all participants.
Thomas Klinke, Vice Chairman of Give Badmintonklub, confirmed the participation of 59 players from the seven clubs. He likewise indicated plans to extend invitations to Egtved and Ødsted clubs for next year’s tournament, continuing the trend of expanding the event’s reach. “We run the tournament entirely independently, without involvement from DGI or the Badminton Federation, allowing us full control,” Klinke explained. “The tournament lasted approximately six hours, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.”
A unique aspect of the GEM championships is the player-as-official system. Players who win their matches are then tasked with officiating the next match on their court, a system Klinke reports functions effectively.
Give Badmintonklub is actively working to revitalize the sport in the local community following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The club currently boasts 30 youth players, a number that has been steadily increasing in recent years. Alongside the youth program, the club’s “FleksiFjer” initiative is also gaining traction.
“FleksiFjer is a combination of senior training, recreational badminton, and socializing,” Klinke described. “We play once a week, currently with 8-12 players of varying skill levels. We mix up partners, primarily playing doubles, with a focus on both competitive spirit and a relaxed post-game atmosphere.” Klinke expressed hope for continued growth in the FleksiFjer program.
The Give Badmintonklub’s leadership team includes Chairman Nickolaj Berthelsen, Vice Chairman Thomas Klinke, Treasurer Maria Henriksen, board member Per Nørskov, and Lars Morell, who provides support for various club tasks.
The club will begin registration for the new season in September for both youth and senior players. This provides a clear checkpoint for those interested in joining the Give Badmintonklub community.
The tournament’s success underscores the enduring appeal of badminton within the Give region. The blend of competitive play, community involvement, and a welcoming atmosphere makes the Give-Egnens championships a highlight of the local sporting calendar. The club’s commitment to both youth development and recreational opportunities suggests a bright future for badminton in Give.
You can see more photos from the championships HERE.
What’s Next: Give Badmintonklub will begin accepting registrations for the fall season in September. Keep an eye on the club’s channels for specific dates and details.
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