'It's all about having fun': Introducing LGBTI badminton group Sydney Hotshots - Australia Gay News Network

A badminton club for LGBTI people has launched in Sydney and whether you've played badminton or not, you're invited to join in. By Reg Domingo. When Richard Bonner moved to Sydney from Scotland a couple of years ago, he was eager to continue nurturing his hobby: badminton. He was a casual player that played on and off, and joining a local group would’ve been a good way to meet new people.

But to his disappointment, there were no gay and lesbian badminton clubs in existence. Next move: create one himself. Thus, Sydney Hotshots was born.

“The group was established in September 2014,” Bonner tells SX. “We have approximately 300 members, however the core group who play most weeks numbers about 20.”

Unlike most other LGBT sporting clubs which compete in tournaments and leagues, Sydney Hotshots exists primarily as a forum to connect LGBT people with an interest in badminton.

“We are exclusively a social group and don’t get involved in any competitions as such – just a bunch of mates getting together and having some fun games of badminton every week,” Bonner says.

Above: Sydney Hotshots. Photo: Deep Field Photography

“The sessions are completely open for anyone to play anyone – there are no cliques and no exclusion of anyone based on ability or experience.

“The group has also developed a fairly active social scene and we’re regularly meeting up outside of badminton games for dinners, drinks and other activities.”

As the group expands, Bonner hopes to incorporate a more structured approach to practice and training, but for now, it’s just all about “casual games”.

Bonner encourages anyone with an interest in badminton to get in touch and come along.

“As well as the chance to play some badminton, the group is a fantastic way to meet to meet other LGBT folk.

“We don’t take ourselves seriously and it’s all about having fun.”

Sydney Hotshots meet on Tuesday nights at Robyn Webster Sports Centre. Go to www.meetup.com/sydney-hotshots

Author Reg Domingo