The annual Make A Wish Badminton Dubbel en Mix Toernooi at sportcentrum De Kalkwijck in Hoogezand is drawing a record-breaking 108 players across 54 teams for its ninth installment.
Record Turnout Fills Eight Courts in Hoogezand
Set for Saturday, October 10, the tournament features competition spread across all eight courts at Sportcentrum De Kalkwijck. The schedule accommodates two poules each in the men’s doubles and women’s doubles, alongside four poules in the mixed doubles. Matches cater to both high competitive standards and recreational play, giving participants of varying skill levels a chance to compete.
This year’s total of 54 registered teams surpasses the benchmark set during the eighth edition on October 18, 2025. That previous outing drew 50 teams and 100 players, who all checked in on match day to establish a then-record turnout.
Charity Donation Aims to Match Previous Highs
Proceeds from the entry fees, a raffle featuring donated prizes, and contributions from a broad group of sponsors go directly to Make A Wish Nederland, a national organization that grants wishes to children facing life-threatening illnesses. Organizers expect the total contribution to match or exceed the 5,000 euro mark, building on the 4,500 euros raised during the 2025 event.
The municipality of Midden-Groningen supports the initiative by providing the Kalkwijckhal venue and its eight badminton courts at a reduced rental rate. Badmintonclub Sportief Hoogezand oversees the tournament administration, handling the match secretariat and day-of-play management.
Schedule and Match Day Logistics
Play gets underway at 9:15 a.m. local time, with participating teams managing court officiating duties as part of the timed match schedule. The awards ceremony is scheduled for approximately 5:00 p.m., concluding a full day of competition. Spectators are welcome to attend and watch the matches from the sidelines.
Henk Jan de Haan, a regional volunteer for Make A Wish and the initiator of the annual tournament, coordinates the charity event alongside local club partners. Registration for the 2026 competition is handled via direct inquiries through the event’s match secretariat.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the tournament taking place?
The ninth edition of the tournament is scheduled for Saturday, October 10, at Sportcentrum De Kalkwijck in Hoogezand, with matches running from 9:15 a.m. to the trophy presentation at 5:00 p.m.
How many participants are competing this year?
A record-setting 108 players organized into 54 teams have registered to compete across the men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles disciplines.
Which charity benefits from the event?
The proceeds, generated through entry fees, a raffle, and local sponsor contributions, are donated to Make A Wish Nederland to help fulfill the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses.
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