BRIGG BOYS THROUGH TO NATIONAL BADMINTON SEMI-FINALS

FROM NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE COUNCIL

Pupils from across North Lincolnshire entered the Center Parcs National Schools Badminton Championships, and two teams of boys have successfully made it through to the semi-finals in March. 
At the county stage (quarter finals) on 5 February at Hull Badminton Centre there were teams from Sir John Nelthorpe School, Brigg: Key Stage 3 boys and girls, Axholme Academy: Key Stage 4 girls and Vale Academy: Key Stage 4 boys. The Key Stage 3 boys from Sir John Nelthorpe and Key Stage 4 boys from Vale Academy have made it to the semi-finals. 
These two teams have got through two rounds already to make it to the regional stage (semi-finals). This will be taking place on 25 March at York Railway Institute. 
They will be playing against other regions across the country in a bid to make it to the national finals held at Center Parcs in Sherwood Forest later in the year. 
Most of the players who have made it through to the semi-finals attend the Badminton Academy at Ancholme Leisure Centre.
The Academy was set-up five years ago; it provides coaching for beginners and aspiring players. Many now represent the county and compete in national events. It is run by Richard Traviss (international player) and Michael Taylor (county player) - both qualified coaches. 
Beginners train at Ancholme Leisure Centre on a Saturday mornings from 9am to 10am and costs £3.70, followed by the elite squad from 10am to 12pm. For further information contact Richard on 07738337203 or email richardtraviss1@hotmail.co.uk.  
Coun Carl Sherwood (Brigg & Wolds), cabinet member for customer services, sport and leisure, said: “This is only the second time that we have had two teams make it to the semi-final stage, which is an achievement in itself. Most of the boys attend our Badminton Academy at Ancholme Leisure Centre, so we are extremely proud. It is great to see their hard work paying off. 
“Well done to all the boys and girls who have taken part in the Championships. Good luck to the teams from Sir John Nelthorpe and Vale Academy; you are doing a fantastic job of representing North Lincolnshire.”