The Vernantes Vernoil Badminton club, a fixture in the Maine-et-Loire department of France, is preparing to mark its 30th anniversary in 2027. Currently boasting around 40 members, the club is in a healthy state and planning a celebratory evening in April of next year, open to residents of both Vernantes, and Vernoil.
Club president Jonathan Sauvage, who has led the section for four years, confirmed a significant increase in youth participation. “The number of young people has doubled,” Sauvage said. “Our goal is to maintain these numbers. We’ve worked hard to do so by distributing flyers at the beginning and end of last year, including outreach in local schools.”
The club’s success isn’t solely down to recruitment efforts. New volunteers have stepped forward to assist with various activities, ensuring a balanced participation rate among players. Vernantes Vernoil Badminton fosters a welcoming environment, regularly hosting recreational tournaments twice a year, complete with festive meals – a tartiflette feast at Christmas and a barbecue during warmer months. The club extends an open invitation to players from neighboring communities, emphasizing a spirit of camaraderie. “People from surrounding towns can take advantage of the opportunity to play, in a spirit of cohesion. To discover the sport, they don’t have to be members,” Sauvage explained.
Badminton, a sport gaining traction globally, requires relatively little equipment and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. The Vernantes Vernoil club exemplifies this accessibility, welcoming players from ages six to seventy-seven and beyond. This inclusive approach is a key component of their sustained success.
Membership fees for the 2026-2027 season are set at €135 for competitive players and €90 for recreational players. Interested individuals can contact the club at 06 74 73 42 67 for more information.
The club’s continued growth is also reflected in its administrative structure. Linda Dubois has recently taken on the role of secretary, joining the existing bureau. This stability in leadership is crucial for long-term planning and the successful execution of events like the upcoming 30th-anniversary celebration.
Vernantes Vernoil Badminton isn’t operating in isolation. The club is part of a larger badminton network in the Nord Est Anjou region, alongside clubs in Allonnes, Longué, and Noyant, operating under the ONEA Badminton umbrella. ONEA Badminton organizes tournaments and provides resources for clubs in the area.
Looking ahead, the club’s focus remains on maintaining its current momentum and fostering a thriving badminton community in Vernantes and Vernoil. The 30th-anniversary celebration in April 2027 promises to be a highlight, bringing together players, volunteers, and local residents to commemorate three decades of sporting success.
For those interested in learning more about the club or participating in badminton activities, contacting them directly at 06 74 73 42 67 is the best first step. The club’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement makes it a valuable asset to the region.
