91 LGBTIQ+ players and allies recently came together for a competitive weekend of badminton at Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility.
Organised by passionate members of the badminton community and supported by Badminton Scotland, the event was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of inclusivity and a welcoming space for all who took part.
Janis Hunter ran the tournament, drawing inspiration from her wife who has played badminton for 43 years! The couple often travel to tournaments down south and they decided that Scotland needed an LGBTIQ+ event.
Janis said, “Badminton Scotland have been absolutely amazing. They supported me by helping register players on Tournament Software and put me in the right direction for advertising the event. The feedback has been amazing and everybody enjoyed themselves. We're making it fun and they're all absolutely loving it.”
Players of all skill levels filled the courts, bringing energy and enthusiasm to every match and with its growing reputation, the event is set to become a standout fixture on the badminton calendar.
Emma High, Competitions Coordinator at Badminton Scotland said:
“We’re proud to have supported such a vibrant and inclusive event that brought players together from across the UK. Badminton Scotland is committed to growing opportunities like this, and we look forward to supporting the tournament as it continues to go from strength to strength and becomes a permanent feature in our tournament calendar.”
A tournament with a mission
The event, originally launched over ten years ago and now revived post-pandemic, offered multiple playing grades from A to C (beginners) across singles, doubles, and mixed categories, but the emphasis wasn’t just on competition, it’s about giving everybody an opportunity to have fun and play badminton.
Thomas who plays for Truegrip Glasgow (LGBT+ club) and Smash Hits Glasgow, said:
“Teammates, friends and other competitors have been the key to making the event feel like a safe place. It was very friendly and easy going whilst creating a competitive environment. Janis has been warm and welcoming at every opportunity.”
From quirky awards to a lively after-party and a medal ceremony, the tournament celebrates community spirit just as much as sporting success. Beyond shuttle smashes and drop shots, the tournament is about fostering friendships and connections.
Thomas said, “The benefits of the tournament range from making new friends, introductions to other players from around Europe and the connections formed from those interactions. There are also physical benefits like pushing myself to focus and compete physical and being mentally focused.”
Claire from Flaming Feathers Badminton Club in Dublin said:
“In most tournaments you have the 'competitors' and the 'people who are there for fun'. I want to be part of both. At the end of the day, I want to feel that I did my best and enjoyed myself. At inclusive tournaments people want to make friends and meet new people. I have made so many new friends.”
A celebration of inclusion
Organisers went above and beyond to ensure players feel valued, creating thoughtful touches such as providing lunch and a gift bag with water bottles, Irn Bru, tea cakes, and other Scottish-themed treats.
Bon played at the tournament and is part of a club in London called LYC (Long Yang Club). They first got into badminton through school and really enjoyed the fast pace and strategy involved. It became a regular hobby, and eventually, they joined a local club.
Bon said, “I was drawn to this tournament specifically because it is LGBTIQ+ friendly. It felt like a space where I could compete without worrying about judgment or exclusion. It’s helped boost my confidence in terms of being myself in sport. Also, I’ve met amazing people, built friendships, and felt a stronger sense of community.”
They added, “The organisers made it clear from the start that no hostile attitudes should be tolerated. Players were friendly and respectful, and there was a real team spirit — even among competitors. It felt like a space where everyone could truly belong.”
Looking to the future
The tournament marks the beginning of a broader vision for LGBTIQ+ badminton in Scotland. With growing interest from international players—including competitors from Germany, Denmark, and Ireland.
Janis said:
“We’re looking at maybe doing a Four Nations LGBTIQ+ tournament, and we have recently opened up a badminton club in North Lanarkshire and hope to grow this. With coaching already lined up and more players eager to join, the future looks bright.”
“Next year we're going to make it bigger and better and look for it to be an annual event. We’re looking to run 12 courts for over 300 competitors.”
