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KS4 Badminton Report

It was the turn of the older students on Monday 19th January as the sports hall again welcomed students from Tiverton High School, Blundells and this time ISCA. With over 60 students in competition across the four courts the competition was fierce and the standard high. The girls team was once again captained by Sophia who continued the family badminton tradition following on from successful brothers to win through all her singles games. Abley supported by her friend Vanessa the girls squad looked strong. Power and guile from Sophia coupled with great footwork and determination from Vanessa set the ground work for Dulcie and Kate to build on the lead as they saw off all before them. Comfortable winners, but due to a clash with the Y11 trip in February, the squad graciously allowed runners up Blundell 1 to proceed to the finals. 

The boys had two sides and CVCC 2 were captained by a slightly rusty Zac. Full or speed and power he initially hit too many out before adjusting his game and started to show signs of the talent expected of him. Long time player Jack stepped up as his second and played brilliantly, using all areas of the court to exploit his opponents weaknesses. The future of badminton was represented by year 10 lads Harrison and Oli who had to learn quickly, but by the end were as good as any in the hall. 

The boys tournament was won overall by CVCC 1 and it was a pleasure to see all the years of practice and fixtures pay off as Jake, Inti, Aidan and Jacob smashed, cleared and caressed their way past all before them. Inti's shot selection earnt him praise from spectators, as did Jake's raw power and growing ability close to the net. It was however Jacob and Aidan who combined the power and the subtlety in their games, outplaying and outthinking the visitors. Sadly, they two will allow the runners up Blundells 1 to take their place in the country finals as the cruel clash of dates slightly sours what was another great afternoon of badminton for the Clyst Vale students. 

With so many in the hall, tensions could have risen, but every player showed great sportsmanship, humour and maturity in both victory and defeat.