Badminton Doubles Fair Play Points Tournament

A doubles league where the standings combine match points with a fair play score given by the opposing pair. Students compete with real doubles tactics while practicing sportsmanship, honest line calls, and shaking hands with opponents.

How to play

1. List the pairs on the whiteboard: a win is 3 points, a tie at the whistle 2, and a loss 1.
2. After each game, each pair gives the other 0 to 2 fair play points for honest line calls, respect, and the handshake.
3. Play 6-minute rounds of self-officiated, rally-scoring doubles: the pair on whose side the shuttle lands makes the call.
4. On the whistle, shake hands, agree on the fair play score, and record it on the whiteboard next to the result.
5. Pairs rotate following a prepared schedule for 4 rounds; at the end, recognize the best total and the best fair play score.

Rules

• When a line call is in doubt, replay the point.
• The fair play score needs a reason and never punishes losing.
• For safety, students waiting to play stay outside the lines with rackets down.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: plays the net area while the partner covers the back, on a slightly narrower court.
• Shy students: may turn in the fair play score in writing.
• Skill gaps: the stronger pair starts two points down.

Learning goals

• Compete in doubles using the tactics from the unit.
• Self-officiate honestly and accept opponents' calls.
• Value sportsmanship as part of the result.

Equipment for a class of 25

• rackets: 24
• shuttlecocks: 12
• nets: 6
• whiteboard: 1

Teacher tip

Prepare the rotation schedule before class so no time is lost. If a pair uses the fair play score for revenge, talk to them privately and throw out that score.

More activities like this

More main activities for High School