Beginners are those who have not played badminton before, or do not play on a regular basis.

If you're looking for an introduction to badminton, or if you played in school, this is the right level for you :)

You should stay in the Beginners coaching session until you meet the requirements for Division 10 players listed on this page.

You've got basic badminton footwork patterns in place and can move efficiently to front, back, and sides of court. You should be able to lunge forward safely.

Your short serves are reliable.

You're starting to use attacking shots, lifts, and net play intentionally - you're not just hitting it back, and are aiming away from your opponent.

Your ability to place shots (cross-court, down the line, drop vs clear) is developing.

You are comfortable with both forehand and backhand grips, switching between them naturally.

You demonstrate consistency & control and can perform drills of 30+ shots reliably.

You have an increased shot variety and are confident in clears, drops, smashes, net shots, pushes and drives, and are starting to “build points” by using these shots to create openings.

You can execute consistent short, flick, and high serves depending on situation, and can return serve consistently.

You have an understanding of positioning with a partner (front/back, side/side) when attacking and defending.

You should be able to maintain a good level of play over multiple games or long rallies.

Consistency under pressure: You can sustain fast-paced competitive rallies of 15+ shots with minimal unforced errors, and can perform drills of 40+ shots reliably.

Serve & return: You can place serves precisely (short/flick/drive) and attack weak returns. You rarely give away free points while serving.

Footwork efficiency: You can read the shuttle early, move economically to hit, and recover to base. You should be able to split-step and scissor kick.

Defensive strength: You can consistently retrieve smashes, transition defence into counter-attack, and vary blocks/drives.

Shot quality & disguise: The ability to use sharp drops, smashes, net kills, and cross-court angles effectively - sometimes adding deception.

Tactical intelligence & resilience: You can adjust your strategy mid-game to target opponents’ weaknesses, mix up the pace, or force errors. You play in tournaments, league and engage with the wider badminton community competitively.

Doubles coordination: You have an understanding of rotations and formations & know how to communicate well with a partner.

Mental game: You keep your focus and composure even when behind and can use momentum swings and pressure to your advantage.