The world of sports includes numerous games from a variety of countries.  From the fanciful footwork of soccer, to the strong abilities of boxing, the word “sports” encompasses each of these athletic attributes.

De Anza College has made a revival of another sport requiring both the flight of legs and the grace of arms. The Badminton Club has come back to life.

 According to club president Ming Yu, De Anza’s newest sports club made a revival in spring of this year, and actively recruited on Club Day last week. 

“I came [to De Anza] looking for a badminton club, but it did not exist,” said Yu.  “We wanted a place for people to just play badminton.”

 Yu said badminton is a popular sport in Asia, and has not been highlighted as much in the United States, so the club has a majority of international students.  Yu also said that the view of badminton players in the United States is one of dismissal, with many thinking that the game is not a legitimate sport.

 The revival of the club has been successful, with over 60 members.  The club consists of weekly games where both beginners and experienced players play the sport in a relaxed environment.

“We provide rackets and birdies for anyone that wants to play,” club officer Shannon Chang said. “We have student coaches so students who are really interested, but play at a normal level can just come and learn.  As long as you’re hitting the birdie, you are playing.”

 One of the main features that attract members to join the badminton club is that people of either gender can play. According to club officer Pradnya Shah, there is currently no De Anza mens’ badminton team, therefore no opportunity exists for men to play outside the club itself.

 “A lot of the guys are really good, but they don’t get a chance to play outside of scrimmages. They can now play at as part of the club,” said Shah.

 Additionally, Badminton Club offers students a chance at competitive play.

“Because badminton is not recognized as an official team sport, schools will compete as clubs, not colleges,” said Shah.

 Those looking for a chance to learn the sport or play at a competitive level will be happy to hear that meetings are increasing in membership. With meetings Tuesdays from 7-9 p.m., the games will not interfere with a majority of classes scheduled during the day. The club features teaching sessions and an open membership, inviting each De Anza student to come and enjoy the technical precision and pinpoint finesse that badminton has to offer.