Story of Sankey Academy
Established in 2004, initially known as "Allstars" and subsequently amalgamated with "Webber Badminton," our club, under the leadership of Sara Sankey, boasts a remarkable legacy in the realm of badminton. Sara Sankey, with her distinguished career spanning over 18 years, earned 98 caps and represented England at prestigious events, including the Barcelona Olympics in 1992 and multiple Commonwealth Games in 1990, 1998, and 2002, where she secured an impressive tally of 4 Gold, 1 Silver, and 1 Bronze medals. Her international journey also encompassed 8 European Championships, culminating in 4 Silver and 4 Bronze medals, and participation in 3 World Championships, earning accolades and titles worldwide.
As a club, we have consistently fostered a culture of excellence and growth. We have organised numerous tournament trips, providing our players with invaluable competitive experience, and have embarked on three training expeditions to Malaysia, enriching our athletes with a diverse range of badminton experiences.
Our Club Values
At Sankey Academy, we foster a spirit of sportsmanship, teamwork, and camaraderie among our members, encouraging each individual to realise their full potential. At the heart of our club's philosophy is the unwavering commitment to nurturing not only great players but also great people, all united by the love for the game and the pursuit of success.
Our club culture is a reflection of our collective commitment to excellence, inclusivity, sportsmanship, and community
Excellence
We have a relentless pursuit of excellence in every aspect of the game. We cultivate an environment where members strive for continuous improvement, pushing their limits to achieve the highest standards of performance
Inclusivity
We embrace diversity and create an inclusive culture where everyone feels welcome, regardless of their age, background, or skill level. Our club values the unique contributions of each member and promotes a sense of belonging for all
Sportsmanship
This is the core of our club's culture. We emphasize fair play, respect for opponents, and integrity both on and off the court. Our members exemplify the highest ethical standards in the spirit of competition
Community
Our club is more than just badminton; it's a tight-knit community fostering strong bonds and lifelong friendships among passionate members in a welcoming environment
What Do We Aim to Achieve At Sankey Academy
At Sankey Academy Badminton Club, our primary aim is to foster a comprehensive approach to badminton excellence. We are committed to providing our members with a well-rounded training program that encompasses not only the technical aspects of the sport but also physical conditioning, strategic thinking, and a deep love for the game. Our training curriculum focuses on the following key areas, each designed to help players of all levels reach their full potential:
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Proper footwork is the foundation of good badminton. We emphasize agility, balance, and speed on the court. Through drills and exercises, we teach players how to move efficiently, reach every corner of the court, and maintain balance while executing shots.
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Multi-feed drills involve repetitive practice with different types of shuttle feeds. These drills help players develop quick reflexes, improve shot anticipation, and adapt to different playing styles they may encounter in matches.
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Physical fitness is paramount in badminton. Our conditioning programs target strength, endurance, speed, and flexibility. We tailor workouts to each player's needs to enhance overall performance and reduce the risk of injury.
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One-shuttle work focuses on intense, concentrated practice with a single shuttlecock. This helps players refine their stroke mechanics, timing, and shot consistency. It's an excellent way to work on specific weaknesses.
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Perfecting badminton shots is crucial for success. We work on mastering various shots such as clears, smashes, drops, and net shots. Our coaches provide personalized guidance to improve shot accuracy, power, and placement.
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Understanding the tactical aspects of the game is crucial. We provide guidance on court positioning, shot selection, and game strategy. Our coaches help players develop a competitive edge by making smarter decisions during matches.
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We encourage our members to engage in match play regularly. It's an opportunity to apply skills learned in practice to real-game situations, improve decision-making under pressure, and develop mental resilience.
Our Squads
Elite Squad
Our Elite Squad is a team of top-tier players dedicated to tournament-level competition, consistently delivering exceptional performance
Development Squad
The Development Squad is designed for players seeking to develop their skills and knowledge and make a smooth transition into competitive play
Foundation Squad
The Foundation Squad is designed for individuals of all ages who are eager to explore badminton; whilst enjoying themselves through gameplay