BC Courrendlin Reaches Swiss Badminton Elite After Unexpected Promotion
DELÉMONT, Switzerland – The Jura region will have a team competing at the highest level of Swiss badminton. BC Courrendlin has officially been promoted to the Ligue A, the country’s premier badminton league, following a series of unexpected events that opened the door for their ascent. The club, founded in 1989 with the goal of spreading badminton throughout the canton of Jura, faces significant challenges as they make the leap to the elite division.
A Fortuitous Climb
Sportively, BC Courrendlin finished second in their Ligue B group, trailing only Lausanne. However, Lausanne, already possessing a team in the top Swiss league, was unable to accept promotion. Adding to the unusual circumstances, the champion and runner-up in the other Ligue B group likewise declined to move up, creating a unique opportunity for BC Courrendlin after just two seasons in the league. This rapid progression is particularly notable considering the team faced difficulties during the 2024-2025 season.
Challenges Ahead: Venue, Budget, and Roster
The decision to accept promotion wasn’t taken lightly. “Taking the elevator comes with its share of challenges!” the club acknowledged. One immediate hurdle was finding a suitable venue. The current hall in Courrendlin doesn’t meet the Ligue A’s requirements – specifically, a minimum height of eight meters. BC Courrendlin will now play its home matches at the Raiffeisen Parc in Delémont. The club has also invested in two latest badminton courts, as the league mandates courts marked only with badminton lines.
Beyond the logistical adjustments, a significant increase in the club’s budget is required. Captain Noé Varrin estimates the budget will jump from 5,000 Swiss francs to at least 30,000 francs, though he notes this figure is still a broad estimate. Securing sponsorship will be crucial to navigate these financial demands, but Varrin expressed confidence in the support of their sponsors.
Roster Adjustments and Regional Focus
The current BC Courrendlin roster will need bolstering to compete at the Ligue A level. “We won’t be able to play in Ligue A with the same squad as in Ligue B,” Varrin admitted. However, the club is committed to maintaining a core of local Jura players. “Otherwise, it doesn’t make sense to move up,” he stated.
Recruitment efforts are already underway, with Lorrain Joliat, currently playing for Yverdon in Ligue A, as a potential target. The team also plans to bring in international talent. “All teams in the LNA have several foreigners… We’re going to try to find at least two,” Varrin explained. The addition of foreign players will be essential to compete against established teams with deeper rosters.
A Growing Club and a Promising Future
The Badminton Club Courrendlin, established in 1989, has steadily grown its presence in the canton of Jura. The club’s website details its commitment to both competitive and recreational badminton. This promotion to the Ligue A represents a significant milestone in the club’s history and a boost for the sport in the region.
Courrendlin is a municipality in the district of Delémont in the canton of Jura in Switzerland, with a population of 2,405 as of 2003. According to Wikipedia, the municipality merged with Rebeuvelier and Vellerat on January 1, 2019.
The club’s success is a testament to the dedication of its players, coaches, and supporters. While the challenges are considerable, the BC Courrendlin is determined to make a mark in the Swiss badminton elite. The team’s first Ligue A matches are scheduled to begin in September.
Next up for BC Courrendlin is finalizing their roster and preparing for the start of the Ligue A season in September. Fans can follow the club’s progress on their Facebook page for updates and announcements.
