A Friendly Badminton Match: Jurong Christian Church vs. Hope Church

I have always been a badminton enthusiast playing 4 to 6 times a week within and beyond the walls of JCC. On 18^th May, we had the exciting opportunity to participate in a friendly match with members from Hope Church and regulars from a community club. The event was held at Temasek Club, where we had access to three courts. Around 20 of us gathered—young and old alike—competing in both singles and doubles matches.

It was truly a test of skill for our JCC badminton regulars. Our opponents were all of a higher level, but what stood out most wasn’t the score, it was the spirit. What I appreciated most was the sense of solidarity. Despite losing most of the matches, everyone had smiles on their faces, proud of how we played. We cheered each other on and supported one another before and after every game. One group even brought a quirky banner, adding to the laughter and light-heartedness of the day.

We may not have taken home victories, but we gained friendship, experience, and camaraderie. Badminton is a rewarding sport as it demands physical and mental strength, and creative strategy. There’s always something new to learn, whether it is technique, tactics, or endurance. And I believe these lessons will carry over into our daily lives as well.

Sebastian

Editor’s Note: This friendly badminton match was the first between Jurong Christian Church and HOPE Church, with community participation. It was particularly significant as both churches actively engage in community outreach through badminton, utilizing the sport as a “bridge” to connect with individuals. Beyond the friendly competition on the courts, this match represented a valuable opportunity for fellowship, fostering stronger inter-church relationships and sharing insights on effective sports-based outreach initiatives. We hope this report not only captures the spirit of the match but also serves as a testament to the power of shared passions in building community and spreading goodwill.