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Young people aged between eight and 14 will have an opportunity to upgrade their badminton skills by joining the Young Badminton Athletes Training Scheme.

Jointly launched by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and the Hong Kong Badminton Association (HKBA), the Young Badminton Athletes Training Scheme aims at enhancing young people's interest in badminton and fostering a sense of sportsmanship among them.

An LCSD spokesman said today (December 26), "During the course of systematic training, HKBA coaches will identify participants with potentials for further training."

"Outstanding trainees may be selected to the Junior Squad of the HKBA and may have the chance to take part in international competitions," the spokesman added.

Training will be conducted in four levels. Trainees have to pass an assessment at the end of each level before proceeding to the next higher level.

Training in level one aims at upgrading basic skills, such as batting postures, point of impact timing, and improving knowledge of singles rules. Level two training consists of further skill improvements, integrated skill practices and learning of competition skills. Level three covers polishing of batting movements, knowledge and practice of singles tactics, as well as doubles rules and reflexes. Level four provides more advanced training in singles skills, and knowledge and practice of doubles tactics.

Recruitment for training in level one is now open to young people aged between eight and 14 who possess basic badminton skills. Those aged between eight and 11 and between 12 and 14 are welcome to enroll in Division A and Division B respectively. The fee for successful applications ranges from $59 to $118. The deadline for application is January 27, 2001.

Applicants have to go through screening tests before being accepted for training.

Application forms are available at LCSD District Leisure Services Offices and the HKBA at Room 2005, Sports House, 1 Stadium Path, So Kon Po, Causeway Bay, and can also be downloaded from the LCSD website at www.lcsd.gov.hk.

For enquiries, please call 2309 1181.

End/Tuesday, December 26, 2000

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