Pontarlier, France – The Pontarlier Badminton club is celebrating a landmark achievement after its youth section secured four medals at the regional championships held in Mâcon on February 28th and March 1st, 2026. This marks the first time the club has achieved such a result in its history, signaling a turning point for the program.
Leading the medal charge was Éléa Barrocca, who triumphed in the benjamin women’s doubles alongside Olivia, a player from Conches. Manoé Rollée added to the success with a silver medal in the poussin men’s doubles, partnering with Marius from Héricourt. The medal haul was completed by Éléa Barrocca and Lubin Badoz, who secured a bronze in the benjamin mixed doubles.
Beyond the medalists, several other young athletes from Pontarlier Badminton competed in challenging categories, gaining valuable experience against seasoned opponents. The club’s performance underscores a sustained period of development and investment in its youth program.
Four Years of Focused Development
The recent success is the culmination of four years of strategic restructuring within the youth section. Pontarlier Badminton has prioritized enhanced coaching, individualized player development plans, and a heightened focus on technical proficiency. This progress is largely attributed to the leadership of club president Linda Thétis, who also oversees youth training, and a dedicated team of volunteer coaches and supportive parents who actively participate in travel and logistical arrangements.
The club’s commitment extends beyond competitive success. Pontarlier Badminton actively promotes inclusivity through initiatives supporting para-badminton and adaptive sports. During the regional championships, young players were introduced to these practices, reinforcing the club’s dedication to accessibility and broadening participation in the sport. This approach is particularly noteworthy given the club operates without any permanent, paid staff, demonstrating the power of a well-organized structure and committed volunteer base.
The club acknowledges the gap in resources compared to larger regional clubs like Vercel-Valdahon and Val de Morteau, but believes that a strong organizational foundation and dedicated volunteer effort can help bridge that divide. The recent medal count is a testament to that belief.
Éléa Barrocca’s double success – winning both the women’s doubles with Olivia and a mixed doubles bronze with Lubin Badoz – highlights the versatility and potential within the Pontarlier Badminton youth ranks. The partnership with Olivia, representing the Conches club, demonstrates a collaborative spirit within the regional badminton community.
Manoé Rollée’s silver medal alongside Marius from Héricourt further showcases the growing talent pool in the region. The competition at the regional level is clearly intensifying, providing a valuable proving ground for these young athletes.
For Pontarlier Badminton, this achievement isn’t just about the medals; it’s about building a sustainable program that fosters a love for the sport, promotes inclusivity, and provides opportunities for young athletes to reach their full potential. The club’s dedication to these principles positions it for continued success in the years to arrive.
The club’s next scheduled competition is currently unconfirmed, but updates will be posted on the club’s official channels. Fans and supporters can follow Pontarlier Badminton’s progress and learn more about their initiatives through local sports reporting and club announcements.
