PUYGOUZON, France – The Union du Badminton de l’Agglomération de l’Albigeois (UBAA) has welcomed a fresh face to its coaching staff, with 21-year-old Léo Rampnoux taking the reins as a key figure in developing the sport within the region. Rampnoux’s arrival signals a novel chapter for the club, focused on both competitive advancement and broadening access to badminton for all ages and skill levels.
Hailing from Angoulême, Rampnoux brings a dedicated approach and a recently earned Diplôme d’État pour les Jeunes, l’Éducation Populaire et le Sport (DEJEPS) – a French state diploma specializing in badminton coaching. This marks his first professional coaching role, but one he approaches with clear ambitions and a strong foundation built through years of personal involvement in the sport.
Rampnoux’s passion for badminton wasn’t immediate. He initially pursued fencing before a coach’s influence sparked a change in direction. “He gave me the desire to play badminton, when I was practicing fencing!” Rampnoux explained. That early mentorship instilled in him a commitment to progression and self-improvement, values he now intends to pass on to the next generation of badminton players in the Albigeois region.
The UBAA, a club that emphasizes both camaraderie and competition, appears to be an ideal fit for Rampnoux’s philosophy. The club welcomes players of all ages – starting from age five – and abilities, from beginners to seasoned competitors. According to the UBAA website, the club currently fields seven interclub teams and boasts players actively participating in weekend tournaments. This commitment to competitive play is something Rampnoux is eager to contribute to.
Rampnoux’s responsibilities extend beyond simply coaching the competitive teams. He has quickly taken charge of the club’s youth development program, aiming to foster a new wave of talent. He’s too focused on expanding access to badminton, with a specific goal of achieving 50% female participation and promoting inclusive opportunities through adapted sports programs. This dedication to inclusivity is further highlighted by the UBAA’s recent involvement in a Para Badminton event in Puygouzon, organized in partnership with the Comité Départemental Sport Adapté TARN.
Currently, Rampnoux dedicates approximately 20 hours per week to coaching, splitting his time between the Lagrèze gymnasium in Albi and the facility in Puygouzon. He also continues to actively play the sport himself, competing with a team in the Régionale 2 league. This hands-on approach allows him to stay connected to the challenges and rewards of the game, informing his coaching strategies and providing a relatable example for his players.
The UBAA has demonstrated a significant investment in Rampnoux’s potential, offering him a Contrat à Durée Indéterminée (CDI) – an open-ended employment contract – and setting a clear, ambitious goal: to guide the club to promotion to Nationale 3 by 2028. This objective underscores the club’s commitment to long-term growth and its belief in Rampnoux’s ability to deliver results.
For those interested in learning more about the UBAA and its programs, information can be found on their official website at ubaa.fr. The club also maintains an active presence on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, providing updates on events, competitions, and club activities.
The UBAA’s next steps will be closely watched as Rampnoux settles into his role and begins to implement his vision for the future of badminton in the Albigeois region. The club’s commitment to development, combined with Rampnoux’s energy and expertise, positions them for continued success both on and off the court.
