Badminton Centre brings positivity to Touchwood on Blue Monday

10 February, 2025

While January has a reputation as one of the gloomier months, for many it represents a chance for fresh beginnings and the opportunity to learn a new skill.

For Badminton Centre in Solihull, it was certainly the latter attitude that they hoped to tap into as they set up a range of badminton-themed activities at Touchwood Shopping Centre on Blue Monday.

They aimed to use the power of sport to spread joy for families, children and adults in their local community on what is known as the ‘most depressing day of the year’.

“We wanted to bring some light and positivity to what’s often considered a gloomy day,” said Steve Kiernan, the founder of Badminton Centre.

“Badminton is a fantastic way to stay active, build confidence, and connect with others, and it was amazing to see so many people enjoying the activities.”

Hundreds of Solihull residents were given a taste of the sport as a pop-up net provided the opportunity for mini rallies, while a target wall challenged players’ serving accuracy.

With games for all abilities, a reaction test also proved to be a fun exercise as passers-by could test their reflexes and coordination in Touchwood’s Atrium.

Badminton Centre members at the event

The smiles and laughter emanating from the activities were testament to the success of the initiative which showed the power of sport to bring communities together and beat those January blues.

Now, with many picking up a badminton racket for the first time, the event may very well have sparked a new passion in participants and their very own chance at a fresh beginning.

The Badminton Centre, based in Solihull, offers a range of sessions for children, families, and individuals at venues across the area, including Solihull College and is the home of Tudor Grange Badminton Club.

With a focus on combining sport with self-development, the Centre aims to inspire confidence, teamwork, and personal growth both on and off the court.

For those who missed the event, the Badminton Centre welcomes new members to join their sessions. To learn more, visit www.BadmintonCentre.co.uk.