TOUTED as the fastest racquet sport in the world, with top players being able to send the shuttlecock flying at a speed of up to 200mph, badminton is one of the fast growing sports in Southern California. With the sport’s growing popularity, Filipinos living in the area saw to it that they would not be left behind by learning the game and even organizing a club of their own.
On May 30, a small group of Filipinos formed the Philippine Badminton Club-Arcadia (PBCA) to organize and unify all Filipinos playing badminton at a 16-court indoor badminton club in Arcadia, California. According to its founding president, Benjie Baladad of North Hollywood, California, “the purpose of the club is get to know and establish friendship among all Filipinos playing badminton, while at the same time enhancing their skills in badminton through regular matches and clinics.”
Within just less than three months from its founding, PBCA’s membership swelled to more than 90. The members come from different backgrounds and age group.
Their skill levels are also varied – from beginner to advance – which would make any player comfortable playing with the group. The group is also proud of its diversity as it has non-Filipino members whom it considers equally as friends.
Although in its early stage, the PBCA had already accomplished many things for its members. For one, members would no longer find themselves short of playing time whenever they visit the Arcadia club since the group has arranged regular playing times and courts for its members every Mondays and Wednesdays (from 6pm – 9pm), and Saturdays (from 10am – 3pm). The group now boasts a specially-made uniform for its members that uniquely identifies them.
On August 22, PBCA will hold its day-long inaugural tournament dubbed as “Is-mashan sa Arcadia” which is exclusively for members. “This tournament,” Baladad says, “will only be one of a series of others which will strengthen the camaraderie among members, develop their games and give them exposure to competitive matches.”
For those who wish to join PBCA and its tournaments, you may contact Benjie Baladad at (818) 445-1507, or attend the PBCA’s regular playing days at the Arcadia Badminton Club at Lower Azusa in Arcadia, California. You will be warmly welcomed by the members. n
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