A brief history of Badminton

On a world wide basis, badminton has a history of more than 2000 years. Originating from the ancient game of Battledore and Shuttlecock, the game became known as "Badminton" - the name of the home of the Duke of Beaufort in Gloustershire, where in the mid 19th Century it was an enjoyable pastime of the Duke's guests when driven indoors by bad weather.

There are currently 153 nations in the World affiliated to the ruling body , The International Badminton Federation (IBF) which was formed in 1934 with a total of 9 member nations.

Badminton was introduced to Australia in Fremantle, WA in 1905, with the Australian Badminton Association being formed in 1935. Since its beginning the game has spread to all States & Territories. In 1936, Australia become the 11th member association of the IBF.

Victoria is now the stronghold of the sport in Australia with more than 50% of the total national registered competition players.

Australia has competed in every Commonwealth Games since badminton was introduced in 1966, with a Gold Medal for Mixed Doubles in 1982 to Mike Scandolera and Audrey Tuckey and more recently the 1994 Ladies Singles Gold Medal to Lisa Campbell.

Badminton was included at the Barcelona Olympic Games in 1992.

Organised badminton caters for players from juniors under 10 years to active veterans of 70-plus and at varying levels of sporting commitment. For the dedicated athlete the opportunities to advance to world-class are through a process of training, coaching, competition and selection tournaments.

For the middle-ground sportsperson there is weekly association competition and a calendar of weekend Open and Graded tournaments.

For the social player there are many local clubs and halls in which to enjoy the social aspects of a game in which all members of the family and their friends can participate.