Young Whitworth badminton player makes debut in Rossendale Badminton League

Tilly Greenwood

A Year 11 student from Whitworth High School has made an impressive debut in the Rossendale Badminton League, marking a milestone in her promising sporting career. Tilly Greenwood, who is just 16 years old, stepped up to the plate for Oakgate C in a recent match against Brunlea, following an injury to one of her teammates.

Tilly, who had been playing badminton for just a few years, showcased both resilience and skill during the match, winning seven out of her 13 games and helping her team secure a surprise 19-10 victory.

This victory lifted Oakgate C to fourth place in the Division 2 standings, a result that has caught the attention of fellow players and league officials alike.

Tilly’s journey into badminton began in September 2019, when she first took up the sport at Whitworth High School under the guidance of coach Paul Shiel.

She quickly became known for her dedication and talent, which led to her joining the Alpha Whitworth Badminton Club. Her commitment to the sport has seen her progress rapidly, and in March 2023, she started competing at a social badminton club at Oulder Hill High School.

Tilly’s skills did not go unnoticed, and she was spotted by a member of the Rossendale Badminton League committee during the Rossendale Schools’ Partnership badminton finals. Encouraged to take her game to the next level, Tilly soon joined Nigel Holt’s Rossendale Juniors, where she has continued to develop as a player, now representing Oakgate C in the Rossendale league.

Despite being relatively new to the competitive scene, Tilly’s debut performance demonstrates a natural talent and a bright future in the sport.

She was supported at the match by her older sister, Sophie Greenwood, who also plays badminton at a competitive level. Sophie, following in her sister's footsteps, plays in Alpha’s C team and also competes in the Oldham and Rochdale Badminton League.

Both Tilly and Sophie have shown significant promise in their badminton careers, and their success is a testament to the growing strength of the Whitworth badminton scene.

The Greenwood sisters are a shining example of the young talent emerging from local schools and clubs, and their involvement in the Rossendale Badminton League adds further excitement to the already competitive environment.

As Oakgate C’s captain, Catherine Whiddon, looks forward to more performances like Tilly's, it’s clear that the future of the Rossendale Badminton League is in safe hands with the arrival of such promising young players.

The league has already benefitted from Tilly’s contribution, and with continued support and development, it’s exciting to think where her badminton journey might take her next.