On Sunday, 19th April, the annual Gareth Coppack Memorial Tournament was held once again. Established over four decades ago, this event commemorates Gareth Coppack, a talented junior badminton player and former member of Mold Junior Badminton Club, who tragically passed away during childhood. The tournament has become a prominent fixture within the Junior League calendar, consistently attracting participation from players, officials, and spectators alike.

Like last year, the tournament was divided into two categories: The Novice Cup and the Gareth Coppack Shield. A total of 28 teams, comprising of 112 players, participated throughout the day in both competitions. It was wonderful to see such a large turnout of children, parents, and volunteers on Sunday. The quality of badminton played was exceptional, and it’s inspiring to witness so many people in our community embracing the sport!

Tournament Report

The Novice Cup kicked off at 9am with our youngest players, who were full of energy and excitement. Eight teams competed in two groups, with the top team from each group advancing to the final. After a series of intense matches, Flint Juniors led their group, while Connah’s Quay C secured first place in Group B.

In an exciting final, Flint Juniors emerged victorious and claimed the Novice Cup. Congratulations to Flint Juniors!

We extend our congratulations to Connah’s Quay C for achieving runners-up status.

The Gareth Coppack Shield featured participation from 20 teams, divided into four groups. This involved 80 competitors, each demonstrating their dedication in pursuit of the prestigious trophy. The group stages progressed efficiently, and by mid-afternoon, the semi-finalists were determined: Eros Gladiators, Mavericks, Dynamos, and Hurricanes. Following the completion of the semi-finals, Eros Mavericks and Eros Dynamos advanced to compete in the final.

The final comprised of four singles and four doubles matches. At the conclusion of the singles, both teams were tied at 2 games apiece. The doubles matches proved decisive, with Mavericks leading narrowly at 4-3 going into the final game. The last game was highly competitive, ending with a score of 21-20 in favour of the Mavericks, confirming their status as champions of the Gareth Coppack Shield with an overall result of 5 games to 3. Eros Dynamos secured the commendable runners-up position.

Congratulations to Eros Mavericks on their well-earned victory!

The Coppack Family joined us at the end of the day to present medals and the shield to both the runners-up and winners. We appreciate your presence and hope that we have continued Gareth’s legacy in a way he would have liked.