Badminton Australia were pleased to connect with Leisure Networks through the Shuttle Smash program, leading to a partnership with Badminton Victoria to support the delivery of badminton within their programs. Leisure Networks is a not-for-profit community organisation that for the past 30 years has been supporting people with disabilities to be independent and connected in their community.
Leisure Networks’ Active Pathways program has quickly become a favourite among participants. The program, designed for adults aged 18 and over, offers opportunities to build fitness, confidence, and social connection through a rotating mix of sports and activities. Running every Monday from 1 pm to 4 pm, it gives participants the chance to “taste-test” a variety of sporting experiences, including pickleball, golf, gym sessions, swimming, and badminton.
“Over recent weeks, our participants were given the wonderful opportunity to experience badminton sessions, thanks to Michael from the Geelong Badminton Association,” said Zara Poole, Coordinator Community Inclusion at Leisure Networks. “The sessions have offered participants a supportive and engaging environment to learn new skills and enjoy being active together.”
Michael provided clear, practical coaching on strategic play, serving technique, overhead hitting, game rules, and on-court positioning and teamwork. Across the program, participants consistently showed enthusiasm, curiosity, and a willingness to try everything. One participant was even recognised as the “most improved player of the day,” reflecting her progress and growing confidence.
“The badminton sessions have been about far more than technique,” Poole said. “Participants have engaged positively with peers and support workers, shown increased confidence around new people, demonstrated great teamwork and communication, embraced challenges with a positive attitude, and enjoyed rotating through games, scoring matches, and trying different roles.”
One participant, described as a “natural” due to his height, reach, and coordination, won several games with his partners and quickly grasped the rules. Another participant highlighted how much she enjoyed the encouragement from support workers and the welcoming atmosphere.
“Whether learning how to serve, rotating through short games, or taking a turn in the umpire’s seat, customers consistently reported having a fun, positive, and energetic day,” Poole added. “The combination of supportive coaching, social connection, and accessible skill development has made badminton a highlight of the Active Pathways program.”
Leisure Networks continues to offer programs that promote movement, wellbeing, and community. “Badminton has proven to be a fantastic fit for our participants,” Poole said. “We thank Badminton Australia for providing this wonderful opportunity for our programs and participants.”
