Inuvik Badminton's first tournament of the year drew a few new faces to the East Three School courts last weekend.

Taylor Giffin, the tournament's organizer, said the sport has been growing in Inuvik.

"It's a slow growth, but it's definitely growing, and I can see that at our regular Tuesday night badminton," said Giffin. "Our numbers have probably grown by two or three people on a weekly basis."

The badminton tournament featured 20 players competing in singles, doubles and mixed doubles games in the East Three Elementary gym on March 9 and 10.

"Twenty makes for a pretty full gym, but we're working on getting a few more," said Giffin. "That's really the number one thing, to grow the sport of badminton in Inuvik and throughout the territory in general."

The tournament was organized jointly by Inuvik Badminton and East Three School.

"The tournament's going really well, I think everyone's having a lot of fun," he said. "Lots of smiles on everybody's faces when they're coming off the court."

The tournament's $20 entry fee includes a free t-shirt and a spot in singles, doubles and mixed doubles badminton matches. Winners also received prizes such as racquets and grips.

Jenn Parrott, who won first place in women's doubles with her partner Corinne Cormier, said she enjoys participating in the tournaments.

"The tournament's been great so far, it's a lot of fun," said Parrott. "It's a great opportunity to meet new people, and make new friends."

Parrott is new to Inuvik's badminton scene as she only started playing this year.

"It's a good opportunity to get out and meet some new people, and build on the community," said Parrott. "I think that, especially in the wintertime, it's important to make sure that you have a balance between work and fitness. Anything that you can do to maintain a healthy active lifestyle is important."

Giffin added that there will be another badminton tournament hosted by East Three School in the fall, but in the meantime, anyone interested in trying their hand at badminton can play Tuesday nights at East Three for $5 at 8 p.m., equipment rental included.

"It's a pretty welcoming environment, whether you're a beginner, if you're intermediate, if you're an expert, there's all sorts of levels of play for you to fit into," said Giffin. "Come out and learn the game and get some exercise throughout the week."

FACT FILE

Women's Singles: Cheyenne Gully

Men's Singles: Taylor Giffin

Women's Doubles: Corinne Cormier / Jenn Parrott

Men's Doubles: Francis Carpenter / Lee Van Ruskenveld

Mixed Doubles: Mikkel Binder / Stacey Christie