"I've been in Australia for a bit over a year now but I arrived in the country from Japan without knowing a single person. Throughout the course of settling down here, I was fortunate enough to meet my partner and got to know people through her network of friends but it wasn't until I started playing badminton with the Shuttlecats did I feel I had a place of my own I could feel completely comfortable with.
I've always enjoyed being active and have played badminton since high school (albeit it's been a brief 9 year intermission since my last competitive game). I had attempted other meetups for badminton, fitness groups and the like, but I always felt like an outsider, whether it being a huge mismatch in skill level or having to tip-toe around my sexual preferences. With the Shuttlecats, I wholeheartedly appreciate how welcoming, inclusive and relaxed it is. It's focused on supporting each other through playing badminton, building friendships and destressing from the pressures packed on during the day. I hope the Shuttlecats will continue to be a place for me and others to feel at home. I'm counting on it." - Stephanie C -
I've always enjoyed being active and have played badminton since high school (albeit it's been a brief 9 year intermission since my last competitive game). I had attempted other meetups for badminton, fitness groups and the like, but I always felt like an outsider, whether it being a huge mismatch in skill level or having to tip-toe around my sexual preferences. With the Shuttlecats, I wholeheartedly appreciate how welcoming, inclusive and relaxed it is. It's focused on supporting each other through playing badminton, building friendships and destressing from the pressures packed on during the day. I hope the Shuttlecats will continue to be a place for me and others to feel at home. I'm counting on it." - Stephanie C -
"I’ve come from a background of full contact sports to Badminton which has surprised many of my friends and family. This transition was made easier through the supportive coaching sessions and the warm and accepting queer space that the Shuttlecats have provided. It’s a great workout and meeting new people between games has created a real sense of connection and community for me." - Ana -
