From Court to Community: Rallying Alumni Through Badminton

The fluorescent lights buzzed overhead. The rally lasted over a minute, each shot more precise than the last. Alex lunged forward, returning the shuttlecock with a decisive smash — and in that moment, a wave of clarity and connection came over him. This wasn’t just about sport. It was about community, continuity, and shared experience.

That moment sparked a new initiative.

For Alex Lim, an NBS alumnus who graduated with a business degree in marketing in 2008 and currently Sales Director for Southeast Asia at Sennheiser, badminton has always been more than a pastime. “As a student, badminton was how I recharged. It was where I made friends, relieved stress, and built relationships that lasted beyond exams and group projects,” he says. “Why not recreate that? Why not bring people back together through the game we all enjoy?”

And so, the NBS Alumni Badminton Interest Group was formed.

Reigniting Bonds Through Sport

The idea started with informal conversations — shared memories, unused racquets, and a growing interest in reconnecting. With the support of Ann Ong and Sheryl Wong from the NBS Alumni Relations team, Alex took the first step — reconnecting with former classmates, gauging interest, and securing a venue where shuttlecocks could fly and friendships could pick up where they left off. It was as much about enjoyment as it was about fitness.

“We keep it simple. No pressure, no rankings — just a welcoming environment where alumni of all ages and skill levels can turn up, play, and unwind,” Alex explains.

A Community in Motion

Each quarterly session brings in new participants. Some attend to improve their game, others simply to stay active after a busy week. But everyone leaves with something in common: a renewed connection to the NBS community.

“The atmosphere is great. People are cheering, laughing, offering tips, and afterward, we gather over a meal and catch up,” says Alex. “It’s a good mix of the familiar and the new.”

The group has evolved beyond its initial purpose. While badminton is the main attraction, sessions now double as informal networking opportunities — where job leads are shared, ideas exchanged, and new friendships formed. It offers a relaxed social space that supports both professional connections and personal wellbeing.

Alex (front row, left) with fellow NBS alumni representing the school in alumni sports challenge at NTU Homecoming 2024. Team NBS proudly clinched both first and second places. 

Serving a Greater Purpose

Alex hopes that the group will become more than a recreational outlet; he sees it as a starting point for broader alumni engagement. While the focus remains on badminton, his ambition stretches beyond the court.

“This is about keeping our alumni network active and connected,” he says. “Though we’ve moved on professionally, we share the same roots. Those late-night study sessions, group projects, and campus experiences are memories we carry with us.”

His message to fellow alumni is straightforward: you don’t need a grand idea to give back.

“If you have something in mind — no matter how small — pursue it. Enthusiasm is contagious. Tap into your network, ask for support, and take the first step. Even the smallest gathering can create meaningful connections.”

Over 30 alumni came together for the 3^rd NBS Alumni Badminton Meet on 11 April 2025, enjoying a great evening of sport and connection. 

Join the Rally

The NBS Alumni Badminton Interest Group is now up and running, and we welcome more alumni to get involved. You do not need to be a seasoned player — it’s all about staying active, enjoying the game, and reconnecting with the NBS community.

If you’re interested, join the NBS Alumni Network LinkedIn Group for updates or contact us at [email protected].

Grab your racquet — we hope to see you on the court!