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Shuttle Smash is Badminton Australia's (BA) new introductory program, and the National Indigenous Sports Foundation (NISF) couldn't be more thrilled to be a part of it. Designed for ages five to twelve, this program's primary goal is to help kids learn how to play and grow in their physical abilities. This program will be officially implemented in the following months nationwide.
The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) has been instrumental in the program's success, with 700 people around the country picking up racquets and joining badminton courts as a result of the program's pilot run in recent months.
With badminton continuing to grow around Australia, the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) has awarded BA a $450,000 grant to develop, pilot, and launch a new national badminton program.
Commenting on the program's success in its infancy, Badminton Australia CEO Jamie Parsons was excited about the program's potential.
“Without funding from the Australian Sports Commission, developing a program like Shuttle Smash would simply not be possible,” Parsons said.
“It will be an important addition to the foundation of our high-performance pathway, introducing young Australians to our sport. But more importantly, it provides a fun and enjoyable introduction to physical literacy through badminton.”
Australian Sports Commission (ASC) CEO Kieren Perkins OAM, supports the program and highlighted the importance of funding new programs like Shuttle Smash.
“The launch of Shuttle Smash will help children across the country connect with Badminton in a fun and safe environment,” Perkins said.
“The ASC’s Participation Grant Program allows sports to invest in innovative new programs to bring communities together and help more Australians enjoy the physical, mental and social benefits that sport provides.”
“This program caters for people of all abilities and backgrounds and it’s critical we continue to ensure the sport has a place for everyone in Australia.”
Due to the grant funding from Australian Sports Commission, seed funding has already helped various diverse groups, including those from rural communities, women and girls, people with a disability, lower socio-economic communities, and recent migrants access the exciting new program.
NISF CEO, Robert Bradley couldn’t be more excited to be a part of this program and the benefits it will bring to indigenous communities around Australia.
“NISF is excited to be part of Badminton Australia’s Shuttle Smash program and to see the opportunities this will provide for Indigenous kids to participate in the sport and enjoy the health and social benefits that come with it," Bradley said.
For more information, visit Badminton Australias Website at https://www.badminton.org.au/