Skyline Students are constantly active, either with academics or with extra curricular activities. One of the most important concerns for this college is the health of its students; this is why course offerings include various physical classes, such as co-ed club badminton.

The difference between regular badminton classes and club badminton classes is club students get a chance to play and train with members of the varsity team. The training is more intense, as expected, and it is recommended for students who have taken at least the beginning badminton class.

“Physical education is important because it keeps students healthy and moving, badminton is a fun way to exercise and is better than sitting around in a couch playing video games,” said badminton instructor Jan D. Forsberg.

Some might argue that badminton is not as good a sport as basketball, soccer, or baseball. There is not a lot of physical contact, but this sport can still be dangerous.

“There is no physical contact involved in the game, but players can get hurt by being hit by the racket or the bird,” Fosberg said.

Even though there is very little contact with opponents, the class can get very competitive. Students are in constant movement and are ready to respond to quick moves.

“People think of badminton as a back yard sport, but in reality, this sport is really competitive, intense and fast paced,” Forsberg said.

The class consists of players at different levels, and it is recommended for students to have some understanding of the game. This class is open for both boys and girls, as long as they have that background knowledge.

Some students are taking this class because they need the units and others, like badminton student Sean Allgood, take the class simply for self-fulfillment and to get some exercise.

“I am taking this class to get back in shape, badminton is a great and fun way to do so,” Allgood said. Students currently enrolled in this class expect to get more fit, to learn how to play the game better and to build quicker reflexes. According to badminton student Patrick Northrop, the environment of the class is very positive and players are really willing to help.