OSSBA announces plan to set up badminton academy

Orissa State Secretariat Badminton Association (OSSBA) created a new hope for badminton in Orissa by announcing its plan to set up an academy in Bhubaneswar. Officials of OSSBA today disclosed this plan at a media conference in Bhubaneswar, where they elaborated about the Indian Oil-TCS Cup 2nd All-Orissa Open Badminton Tournament to be held at Saheed Nagar Indoor Hall in Bhubaneswar from December 11 to 13. ‘‘Former All England Champion P Gopichand appreciated the infrastructure facility here while inaugurating the first edition our open tournament two years ago. OSSBA wants to honour Gopichand by setting up an academy for the grooming of badminton talents of the state,’’ said organising committee chairman Priyadarshi Mohapatra. OSSBA working president said the ensuing tournament, offering a total cash prize of Rs 40,000 would be conducted in six categories, involving men, women, boys and girls. Orissa State Badminton Association has recognised this tournament and it would serve as the basis for selection of players for the Senior National Championship to be held at Guwahati from January 1 to 9. PHOTO: OSSBA officials at a media conference in Bhubaneswar on December 6, 2009.