The finals of its 2025/2026 National Secondary Schools Badminton Competition served off on Tuesday at the South Regional Indoor Sporting Arena in Pleasantville.
Minister of Education Dr. Michael Dowlath officially opened the tournament, marking the start of four days of intense competition.
Following Tuesday’s opening day, the remaining three days of competition will shift to the National Racquet Centre in Tacarigua on January 21st, 28th and 29th.
The nation’s top school badminton athletes will battle for national titles throughout the competition.
“What you’re doing is very meaningful. You’re part of development, not just yourself but your colleagues because sports builds character. Sports is about discipline. If you don’t reach on time, you get left out. So you learn time management. Sports is about community. You learn about teamwork. You learn about the strengths and weaknesses of yourself and your teammates, especially when you have to play those doubles. You know what the strength of your partner is, you know what their weaknesses are. And so you learn to care, you learn to be more supportive. You learn what is called emotional intelligence. You become a better human being by playing sports.”