Mont-sur-Marchienne Badminton Club Hosts Successful Top Ranking Tournament

Mont-sur-Marchienne, Belgium – The Cos de la Garenne sports hall was transformed into a hub of badminton action this weekend as the Mont-sur-Marchienne Badminton Club hosted its annual tournament. The event, known as the “Top Ranking” tournament, drew competitors from across the region, including players from France, and saw approximately 140-150 participants compete.

The tournament’s format, a pool play system, provided ample opportunity for players to gain match experience. “It’s the Top Ranking tournament, so it brings together the rankings from 1 to 8,” explained club president Pascal Colmonts. “People from all over the region reach, we even had French players join us today. With 140-150 players, we’re really happy with the results for this weekend. Everything is played in pools, which gives players the chance to have a maximum number of matches, which is generally what they enjoy. Whether it’s in singles or doubles, everything is played in a pool format. Players earn points for their ranking, but we also have prize money, so there’s a financial reward for winning or being a finalist.”

Local Duo Competes in Top Series

In the highest series, 1 and 2, a team representing the Mont-sur-Marchienne club took to the court. Jean-Philippe and Arnaud, teammates in Nationale 2, were determined to make their mark despite facing a tough challenge. They experienced a first-round defeat but remained optimistic.

“Yes, we lost, but it went relatively well because it was a good match against people we know well,” said one of the players. “Our opponents included a member of another Nationale team. It was a pleasant match, a good rhythm to start the tournament and get warmed up. Despite the defeat, it remains positive. I have three more doubles matches, and then tomorrow I’ll play mixed doubles. Jean-Philippe also has singles matches, so he’ll have even more games.”

Clubmen and Coaches: A Commitment to Mont-sur-Marchienne

Jean-Philippe and Arnaud embody the spirit of the club, consistently representing Mont-sur-Marchienne with pride. Their dedication extends beyond playing, as they also contribute to the club by coaching the younger generation. Their team recently secured their position in Nationale 2, avoiding relegation.

“At the end of the season, we managed to stay up,” Arnaud explained. “We were in the relegation playdown, finished 5th so we’re staying. So we finished in first place among the ‘less good’ teams.”

Jean-Philippe added, “We both started at the club. I’ve been here for 20 years and a little more. We came up through the ranks at Mont-sur-Marchienne. It’s a pleasure to represent the club, and we now coach the young players. I’ve been coaching for ten years, he’s been doing it for a little less, but we strive to ensure that they can one day replace us on the national team, we always hope for that.”

Tournament Success Despite Facility Limitations

Despite the tournament’s success, the Mont-sur-Marchienne Badminton Club has been unable to host the event at its usual facilities since 2020. Capacity restrictions at the Mont-sur-Marchienne venue, limited to 100 players, have necessitated using the Parc des Sports.

“That’s my biggest frustration,” Colmonts admitted. “Since 2020, it’s been six years that we haven’t been able to return to Mont-sur-Marchienne because the capacity is limited to one hundred players. I hope that eventually we will be able to return soon. But, I want to take this opportunity to thank the staff of the Parc des Sports, the Parc des Sports association, for their fantastic welcome and availability.”

The club’s ability to adapt and deliver a successful tournament despite these challenges underscores its commitment to the sport and the local badminton community. The event provided a valuable platform for players to compete, gain experience, and contribute to the continued growth of badminton in the region.

For those interested in learning more about the Mont-sur-Marchienne Badminton Club, information can be found on DHnet.be.

The next scheduled action for the Mont-sur-Marchienne Badminton Club is the continuation of the Nationale 2 season, with details to be announced on their official channels. Stay tuned to Archysport for further updates on badminton and other sports news.