The badminton club is back in action this semester, resuming practices earlier this month after overcoming gym space issues last fall.
Club President Xenia Cruz, who helps coordinate practices, said the team kicked off the season with a party on Feb. 19 to spread the word about their return. The club had struggled with access to the gym for practice due to the temporary loss of the East-West University space last fall, as the Chronicle previously reported.
Space for all Columbia’s sports clubs and teams has since been reinstated for the spring semester.
Practices are listed on Engage, but Cruz emphasized that anyone is welcome to drop in.
To celebrate their return, the club hosted a reunion pizza party at the Student Center before their Feb. 28 practice, giving members a chance to reconnect before heading to the gym.
Unlike some of Columbia’s other sports clubs, the badminton team doesn’t compete in tournaments. Instead, they focus on casual, friendly matches among members. Players rotate frequently during “roll takes,” a system that ensures everyone gets equal playing time.
“We just play for fun, which everyone seems to enjoy the most,” Cruz said. “Sometimes I can be competitive, but most of the time I’m just there to have fun — it’s why I joined in the first place.”
With about 25 active members, managing rotations can be challenging, but Cruz said the system helps keep things balanced.
For grad student Chloe Wang, who has been part of the club for over a year, the structure makes practice even more enjoyable.
“I like badminton because it’s a fun way to get some exercise,” Wang said. “My favorite part is that we switch partners every few minutes, so we get to meet and play with different people.”
Senior film and television major Greg Delgado, who attended practice with his roommate, said the club provided a chance to catch up with old friends.
“I had a blast competing against my roommates and friends,” Delgado said.
Wang agreed, adding that badminton is a great way to connect with others — even without speaking.
“It’s not only good for your health, but also a great way to socialize,” she said. “You don’t always need to talk. If you’ve never tried it before, give it a shot! It’s not that hard, and we all help each other out.”
Junior Laila Cook, a traditional animation major, has been with the club for more than two years after being invited by Cruz.
“Everyone was super nice and taught me how to play,” Cook said. “It’s a great workout, but since we’re not competitive, it’s also just a fun place to hang out.”
The badminton club will meet next on March 5 from 6-8 p.m. in the East-West gym.
For Cruz, the best part of leading the club is seeing members enjoy themselves.
“I’ve met so many cool people through badminton,” she said. “It’s just so much fun watching everyone interact and have a good time. It’s the highlight of my day — or even my week.”
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