National School Badminton Championships: 425 Lycéens Compete in France

The halle des sports at Collège Via Domitia in Manduel and the lycée Philippe-Lamour in Nîmes, France, are currently hosting the French UNSS (Union Nationale du Sport Scolaire) national badminton championships. Approximately 425 lycée (high school) students from across France are competing for the national title, with competition running through March 27, 2026. This event showcases the rising talent in French school badminton and underscores the sport’s growing popularity among young athletes.

The championships began on the morning of March 23rd, transforming the Manduel sports complex into a hub of athletic competition. Collège Via Domitia is playing a central role in organizing the event, managing a busy schedule of matches. Nine courts have been set up to accommodate the large number of participants and ensure a smooth rotation of games.

The competition is structured in two phases. From March 23rd to 25th, teams representing their schools and the “sport partagé” (shared sport) category took center stage. The “sport partagé” category is particularly significant, embodying the UNSS’s values of inclusion by allowing students with disabilities to compete alongside their able-bodied peers. This demonstrates the power of sport to break down barriers and foster a sense of community.

As of today, March 27th, the competition intensifies with the start of the “excellence” category, featuring athletes from sports sections and the most promising young players in the discipline. This final stage promises a higher level of play and a thrilling conclusion to the championships.

Beyond the athletic performances, the event is a collaborative effort involving a wide range of individuals. Young officials are serving as referees and judges, even as physical education teachers and staff from Collège Via Domitia are providing essential support. The championships are not just a sporting event; they are a community undertaking.

Spectators are welcome to attend and support these budding athletes. Admission is free, and the organizers encourage local residents and badminton enthusiasts to arrive and witness the action firsthand. The event provides a valuable opportunity to experience the energy and excitement of competitive badminton.

The UNSS badminton championships represent a significant event for school sports in France. It’s a chance for young athletes to test their skills, compete at a national level, and experience the camaraderie of sport. The championships as well highlight the importance of physical education and the role of schools in promoting healthy lifestyles.

Manduel, a commune located 10 km from Nîmes, is playing host to a major sporting event, further solidifying its position as a center for athletic activity in the Gard department. The town, situated on the Costières plateau, has a rich history and is actively investing in latest infrastructure, including the T.G.V. Nîmes-Pont-du-Gard station, signaling a commitment to growth and development.

For those interested in learning more about the event or contacting the local correspondent, Midi Libre can be reached at 06 70 47 34 92.

The championships conclude today, March 27th, with the crowning of the national champions. Keep an eye on the UNSS website for official results and updates following the event. The future of French badminton looks bright with this talented generation of young players.