Badminton boys into national finals

Elizabethan High School’s year 10 and 11 squad will take on the best of their peers in the Center Parcs National Schools Badminton Championships next month.

The championships are one of the biggest schools tournaments in Europe, with over 6,000 school badminton teams from 1,600 secondary schools taking part.

The Elizabethan boys’ achievements mean they will head to the Sherwood Forest Center Parcs for the finals weekend on 21st April, to face off against eight other schools in their age category.

For the last few years the school has consistently performed at a high level in the event, winning the year 7, 8 and 9 boys title last year and finishing second in the previous two years.

Adrian Christy, chief executive for BADMINTON England commended the Retford youngsters’ efforts, saying: “BADMINTON England would like to express our congratulations to The Elizabethan High School for reaching the finals.”

It is a highly competitive and prestigious tournament that draws out talent and entries from schools right across the country.”

“With record entries this year it is fantastic to see so many children getting on court and participating in the sport; a great indication that inspiration from the Olympics is creating a real sporting legacy.”

Colin Whaley, of Center Parcs added: “I’d like to wish The Elizabethan High School and all the other schools who are taking part the very best of luck and we look forward to watching them on our courts.”