Badminton is one of the most popular sports in our boarding community, and Olympus House is no exception. Almost every evening, many students gather in the Olympus indoor gym, engaging in fast-paced rallies and friendly competition. It’s more than just a sport—it’s a social activity where students interact in an active and enjoyable way. In our house, several keen badminton players stand out, with Zilong, Yuchen (both featured in the pictures below), and You-How leading the way.

Badminton is a fast-paced sport that combines speed, strategy, and precision. Originating from British India in the 19th century, it has since become one of the most popular sports in Asia, with China, Indonesia, South Korea, and Denmark producing some of the world’s top players. Beyond its competitive edge, badminton enhances agility, coordination, and decision-making, making it both a physically demanding and mentally engaging game.

Here are a few badminton terms to enhance your vocabulary:

• A shuttlecock (or birdie) is a cone-shaped projectile with a feathered or plastic skirt and a cork or rubber base, designed for high-drag flight in badminton.
• Let – A legitimate cessation of play to allow a rally to be replayed
• Clear – A high, deep shot sent to the back of the opponent’s court.
• Drop shot – A delicate shot that barely clears the net and lands softly.