Mexican Badminton Resurgence: Toluca Club Leads the Way to 2026 Nationals
Toluca/State of Mexico – A renewed focus on badminton is taking shape in the State of Mexico, with the Toluca Club at the forefront of developing the next generation of athletes.
State Selective Competition Sets Stage for 2026
The third Badminton State Selective recently concluded at the Toluca Club, qualifying 16 competitors from ten clubs across the State of Mexico for the national qualifier in Guadalajara, Jalisco, this April.
Toluca Club: A Historic Hotbed for Mexican Badminton
Lisset Miranda, a badminton instructor at the Toluca Club, emphasized the dedication and discipline demonstrated by the athletes in the recent competition. She highlighted the crucial role of family support and the club’s collaborative efforts in fostering the growth of badminton within the state.
“I am highly pleased that badminton is being resumed; in recent years the results are on the right path and we will continue working to strengthen badminton in the State of Mexico,”
Lisset Miranda
Overcoming Challenges and Building Momentum
Miranda noted that while the Toluca Club has historically been a significant “seedbed” for Mexican badminton talent, the program experienced a setback due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a renewed commitment since 2021 has led to a resurgence in positive results.
Road to the 2026 National Olympics
The upcoming 2026 National Olympics, divided into Under 13-15 and Under 17-19 categories, is a key focus. Miranda expressed excitement about the prospects of three athletes – Esperanza Pliego and Regina Velázquez (Under 13) and Ángel Muñoz (Under 15) – as they compete for a place on the national stage.
“It makes me very excited that Esperanza Pliego and Regina Velázquez, in the Under 13 category, are looking for their place in the Olympics and also Ángel Muñoz, in the Under 15 men’s category. I hope to give good news that all three will go to the National.”
Lisset Miranda
Samantha Morales: A Rising Star
The program is also seeing success with Samantha Morales, an Under 19 player, who is considered a promising talent for Mexican badminton.
“She is a player who can repeat the medal and surely will, due to her quality and level, which will allow her to go very far in badminton.”
Lisset Miranda
Key Takeaways
- State Selective Results: 16 athletes from 10 clubs qualified for the national qualifier towards the 2026 competition.
- National Qualifier: Selected athletes will compete in Guadalajara for a spot in the 2026 National Olympics.
- Impact on Mexican Badminton: This initiative strengthens youth training, revitalizes the state’s talent pool, and elevates the State of Mexico’s presence in national competitions.
FAQ
What happened in the Badminton State Selective in Edoméx?
The third State Selective was held at the Toluca Club, where 16 players from 10 clubs earned their place in the national qualifier for 2026.
What does the national qualifier entail?
Those selected will compete in Guadalajara to qualify for the 2026 National Olympics in their respective categories.
What benefits does this impulse bring to Mexican badminton?
It strengthens youth sports training, reactivates the state seedbed after the pandemic, and positions the State of Mexico in national competitions.
