The Badminton Club, first established by CHS alumnus Raam Ravi, is currently being carried out by his younger sister Rukku Ravi. The officers of this club include juniors president Rukku Ravi, vice presidents Hannah Emerson and Xandie Kuenning, secretary Madison Dahm, and treasurer Lauren Song.

Since its creation in 2010, this club has grown from playing games in a classroom to playing on a larger concrete area just outside the CHS football field. With meeting attendances ranging from 10 to 15 people, the Badminton Club has become a welcoming environment for all students at CHS.

“My favorite part of the Badminton Club is the relaxed atmosphere. We just play badminton and have fun. Also, sometimes we have food which is a plus,” Dahm said.

The game of badminton, which has evolved into an Olympic sport, is believed to have originated nearly 2000 years ago in ancient civilizations in Europe and Asia. Then, it was known by the name of Shuttlecock, as the game consisted of hitting a shuttlecock back and forth between two people without it hitting the ground. No net was involved in this ancient game. However, the rules of modern-day badminton, which the club follows, require the two opposing players to volley the shuttlecock over a net until it drops to the ground.

To be a part of the club, no prior experience is required, and everyone is encouraged to join. Even if individuals are already committed to a sport, the Badminton Club would not be a conflict as meetings are held during lunch every other Thursday outside room 412.

“The Badminton Club is very laid back, and we have a lot of fun during each meeting,” Emerson said. “You do not have to be super competitive to join.”

Not only does this club give students an opportunity to meet new people, but it also gives them a chance to learn a new sport. With schoolwork bombarding the life of many students, they may find that there is little time to stay active. Badminton Club provides students with the opportunity to exercise while still being fully committed to school.

The Badminton Club truly exemplifies hard work and dedication from students at CHS. Continuing the club from its establishment has built it up throughout its four years of existence. The leaders of this club hope that it will continue to grow for many years to come.