The inaugural Sharing Youth Junior Badminton Tournament kicked off at the Sharing Youth Centre in Nsambya, Kampala, attracting over 160 young badminton enthusiasts.
Organized by the Uganda Badminton Association, the event aims to showcase the budding talents of players across three age categories: under 10, under 15, and under 19.
Participants are vying for top honors, with medals, trophies, and certificates awaiting the victors upon the tournament’s conclusion.
Notable contenders include Reagan Nsubuga of Ndejje University, Christine Kadondi representing Sharing Badminton Club, Eric Ofuyuru also from Ndejje University, Ramiah Bukenya of Mbogo High Warriors, and Vivian Nalule, among others.
Ronald Lule, the event coordinator for the Uganda Badminton Association, expressed enthusiasm for the tournament’s potential impact on the sport’s future.
“We want to ensure the cultivation of a new generation of badminton players, fostering continuity and expanding our fan base,” Lule remarked.
He added that such events will be held during holidays, with the Sharing Youth Junior event serving as the inaugural initiative.
The surge in participation compared to previous junior events organized by the association has been attributed to the growing interest among youth in badminton, coupled with effective media outreach efforts.
“We have seen an impressive turnout, indicating the sport’s popularity among young people,” Lule noted.
The Sharing Youth Junior Badminton Tournament is set to conclude on Wednesday May 22nd.