badminton union of ireland

Badminton is played on a rectangular court, divided into two halves by a net. Two or four players can play. All games are played up to 15 or 21 points (except ladies singles which is up to 11 points). Only the serving side adds points to the score. A point is gained if a player hits the shuttle to the ground on the opponent's side of the court or if the opponent is unable to return the shuttle into play. There are several shots in the game: the forehand overhead, clears, drops, smash, round-the-head, overhead backhand, and net shots. Badminton can boast one of the highest participation rates of all racquet sports in Ireland.