CREDITON’S Queens Badminton Club player Zinnia, at the age of just 10 years, is one of the club’s most promising young badminton players.

Zinnia explained: "I have been playing badminton with Queens Badminton Club for three years.

"During lockdown, in this terrible time, Queens BC have persevered in keeping members of the club motivated and supported. The club has also been running weekly zoom sessions which have kept our fitness and skills maintained, whilst being off court.

"The zoom sessions have been a highlight of my week, catching up with my friends and coaches virtually.

"One night, the club was lucky enough to have a talk with a question and answer session with none other than mixed doubles silver Olympic medalist Gail Emms.

"It was an amazing experience that inspired me to train harder. Training at home has gone to a whole new level by doing a Joe Wicks workout before breakfast, going for runs with my dog and in the evening going to the leisure centre car park.

"I go to the leisure centre car park with my shuttlecock thrower (aka my Mum!) practising footwork, shots and movement around the court.

"My hope for 2021 is to be able to train again on court and to say a massive thank you in person to all the Queens BC coaches and the behind the scenes team who have given up their time to keep myself and fellow Queens members smiling and healthy throughout lockdown."

Recently Zinnia was super excited the morning of her first session back on court.

Her Mum said that she was up every hour from 3am because she didn’t want to miss anything or be late!

Zinnia was also beaming as she finished, saying that being on court again and allowed to hit shuttles with other badminton players was the best feeling!

Nick Masson, Club Chairman, said: "Zinnia is one of Queens BC’s younger players who is prepared to go above and beyond for the sport she enjoys

"Zinnia works tirelessly to perfect her skills and technique and has already demonstrated her ability to compete well in tournaments.

"Zinnia is a Devon County squad player and has an exciting badminton future ahead of her."

During the summer Queens Badminton Club will be looking at ways to encourage new and returning players to participate in one of the most popular and fastest racket sports in the world!

It’s a great way to meet people, learn a new skill and get fit.