With the Australian Open returning to the court in Victoria this month, another group are hoping to see more players come and have a swing, this time on the badminton court.

Warragul Badminton Club have been helping players hone their skills for decades, but the sport has seen a dip in participation over the past few years.

With restrictions easing, the club is now ready to host players again and treasurer Jean Nielsen is hoping to see more people take up the sport.

“We are wanting to build this year and get some excitement going and get some more kids on the court,” she said.

The team consists of both junior and senior level sides with junior competitions running on Friday night, with the seniors taking place on Wednesday and Thursday nights.  

2019 was a tough year for the side, with numbers again dwindling and when 2020 rolled around and COVID hit, it caused a real strain on the club. 

However, they are determined to see the sport rejuvenated in 2021 and are encouraging people to give the sport a try.

The team is now running a ‘Casminton’ program, which encourages kids to come down for a hit, whether they are experienced, or it’s their first time. 

The five-week program begins on February 15 at the Warragul Badminton Stadium and runs from 5:30pm-6:30pm with no cost.

“We are hoping to get some new players in as well as retain our older juniors and the same with the seniors and show what the sport really is,” she said.

On a Tuesday night, they also have a casual competition on offer for those looking to play a less serious game. 

Ms Nielsen said the social aspect of the sport was also an area they hope to continue to grow.

“The Warragul club will probably put on a few sausage sizzles and other things to also help grow the social side, that’s really important as well,” she said.

The season is set to kick off towards the end of April, with anyone interested encouraged to reach out to the Warragul Badminton Club for further details on how they can get involved.